The King of Fighters AFK, a new mobile entry in the popular fighting game franchise, is now available in early access for players in Thailand and Canada. Fans in these regions can download the game immediately from the Google Play Store or the iOS App Store. This retro RPG-inspired title features a roster of beloved characters and promises 5v5 battles. NetMarble has confirmed that player progress from early access will carry over to the full release.

While King of Fighters Allstar has been discontinued, KoF AFK offers a different gameplay experience. This new installment departs further from the original series' style than its predecessor. Early access players receive the Orochi clan member Mature as a guaranteed recruit.

Despite potentially facing an uphill battle to win back disillusioned fans, KoF AFK aims to provide a more relaxed, casual fighting experience. Its success will depend on its ability to overcome the disappointment surrounding the closure of King of Fighters Allstar and attract players with its unique blend of retro aesthetics and mobile-friendly gameplay. For those interested in comparing it to other mobile fighting games, a comprehensive list of the top 25 best fighting games for iOS and Android is available for reference.