MAY 14, 2026 - Netmarble, a renowned developer and publisher of high-quality games, has released a new update for its AFK RPG THE KING OF FIGHTERS AFK that introduces a large-scale PvP mode, new fighters, and a variety of in-game events. 

Headlining the update is the addition of the new competitive content “Champions Cup.” This new multi team PvP mode features thrilling battles between three teams comprised of seven Fighters each, offering a completely different experience from the traditional 5 vs 5 format. Champions Cup matches take place every weekend and are limited to players ranked within the top 50 in Ranked Battle. This new PvP mode purely focuses on Fighter combinations and strategic team compositions . Players who achieve high rankings can earn exclusive rewards. 

The new update also introduces Orochi Yashiro as a new Fighter. With the Cosmos Attribute and the Special synergy, Orochi Yashiro brings signature skills such as “Odoru Daichi” and “Barren Earth” to the battlefield. A special Pick-Up Event for Orochi Yashiro will run through May 27 that doubles his appearance rate through Premium Summon Also, the Red Rose Night 14-Day Check-In Event will reward players with over 10,000 Premium Points. 

Another featured Pick-Up Fighter is Haohmaru, a fearless swordsman who roams the world in search of worthy opponents and is associated with the Fury synergy. Players can experience his signature skills including “Ougi Kogetsuzan” and “Tenha Hadansen.” The [Fury] Synergy Fighter Summon Event will be available until May 27 that increases the summon rates of Fighters with Fury synergy.

Various events and new content are now live as well. The Vibrant Spring Special Check-In Event offers rewards including Pick-Up Fighter Selection Ticket, Unique Pet Summon Box, DNA,and more. Additionally, a new mini-game called “Chang Koehan’s Iron Ball Fight” has been added, where players can earn Rubies daily by clearing waves of enemies in a fast paced action experience. 

Additional limited-time events include Lucky Elpy (May 18 - May 22), where players can obtain the Legendary Supporter Hanzo Hattori, and Book of Adventures (May 21 - June 3), featuring the Legendary pets Hedgemaru, Haohmaru’s companion pet, and Arma.

THE KING OF FIGHTERS AFK is based on SNK’s “THE KING OF FIGHTERS” IP. The game features iconic fighters from “THE KING OF FIGHTERS” series reimagined in pixel art graphics that gamers are familiar with from THE KING OF FIGHTERS R-2 on NEOGEO POCKET COLOR, allowing players to build their own team of favorite Fighters and enjoy dynamic combats. Players can strategically create their decks by combining at least 5 and up to 25 different Fighters and formations.

For the latest news and information on THE KING OF FIGHTERS AFK, visit the official website and follow the game’s Facebook, X, TikTok, and YouTube channels. 

“THE KING OF FIGHTERS” is an iconic fighting game series that led the fighting game craze in the 1990s, with over 15 titles released to date. THE KING OF FIGHTERS and its Fighters have been receiving strong support among fans around the globe for decades as the series’ systems and stories have evolved over time. 

About Netmarble Corporation
Founded in Korea in 2000, Netmarble Corporation is a leading global game developer and publisher. Through acclaimed franchises and strategic partnerships with top-tier IP holders, the company delivers innovative and engaging gaming experiences to audiences worldwide. As a parent company of Kabam, SpinX Games, Jam City, and a major shareholder of HYBE and NCSOFT, Netmarble’s diverse portfolio includes Solo Leveling:ARISE, Seven Knights Re:BIRTH, RAVEN2, MARVEL Future Fight, and The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross. More information can be found at http://company.netmarble.com.

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