Fatal Fury Special is an improved version of SNK's 2D one-on-one fighter. The objective is to win the tournament by defeating all other fighters, including the final boss Wolfgang Krauser. The game features a large selection of fighters, including eight regular players from Fatal Fury 2 and three returning characters from the first game.
Gameplay involves competing in matches against these fighters, with the goal of emerging victorious. Fatal Fury Special also introduces new modes such as Count Down mode, where players must defeat as many opponents within a set time limit.
The game boasts improved graphics and sound, including extra color schemes for every character and Dolby Surround Sound support.
Fatal Fury Special continues to utilize its signature pseudo-3D movement along two planes.