However, the original Ultimate Match had balance issues. Some EX characters were overpowered, certain system mechanics felt uneven, and the online play (where available) was lacking.
The soundtrack is a remastered love letter. You can choose between the original arcade OST (chip-tuned perfection) or a newly arranged "Ultimate" soundtrack with live guitar, sax, and synth work. Tracks like "Esaka?" (Kyo's theme), "Arashi no Saxophone" (Iori's theme), and "Geese ni Shoyu" (Geese's theme) have never sounded better. Why play KOF '98 UM FE in 2025? Because it is still alive. The King of Fighters -98 Ultimate Match Final E...
This is not a remaster. It is a definitive statement. To understand Final Edition , we must first acknowledge its predecessor: The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match (released on PS2 and arcades). That version added a staggering 12 new characters (including bosses like Goenitz, Geese Howard, and Mr. Big), new EX versions of nearly every fighter (alternate movesets based on their appearances in '95, '96, and '97), new stages, and a revamped "Ultimate" mode that let players mix and match power gauge types. However, the original Ultimate Match had balance issues