Review · Action · Neo Geo · PlayStation 2 · Classic Macintosh
THE KING OF FIGHTERS 2002
By the LumiKin editors
Reviewed: 28 May 2026
Neo Geo · PlayStation 2 · Classic Macintosh · Xbox · Dreamcast · PC · Linux · macOS
SNK · 2001
LumiScore
69/100
Good
Growth (BDS)
55
Risk (RIS)
6
Daily limit
120min
Age guidance
—
Developmental benefits
| B1 | Cognitive | 0.72 | |
| B2 | Social-emotional | 0.13 | |
| B3 | Motor | 0.75 | |
THE KING OF FIGHTERS 2002 is a classic fighting game that offers significant cognitive benefits, particularly in spatial awareness, strategic thinking, critical thinking, memory, and hand-eye coordination. Players must quickly analyze opponents, adapt strategies, and execute precise movements. The game's balanced mechanics and diverse roster provide a continuous adaptive challenge, fostering learning and skill development.
Design risks
| R1 | Dopamine pressure | 0.03 | |
| R2 | Monetization | 0.00 | |
| R3 | Social risk | 0.17 | |
While primarily a skill-based game, THE KING OF FIGHTERS 2002, like many competitive fighting games, can expose players to mild competitive toxicity and social comparison if playing against others. The content includes stylized violence typical of the fighting genre.
Heads up
- Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–0/mo.