In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent waves through both the gaming and sports communities, Cristiano Ronaldo has been confirmed as a playable character in the upcoming fighting game, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. The news was revealed on March 26, 2025, and the game is set to launch on April 24, 2025, across multiple platforms including PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, will bring his unique flair to the game, combining elements of soccer and martial arts in his fighting style. In promotional materials, the Portuguese superstar is depicted transforming into a fighter, complete with a soccer uniform and utilizing a ball in several of his combat moves. His signature goal celebration, the "Siiiu!", will also be featured, adding a personal touch to his character.
The announcement was made via social media, where Ronaldo expressed his excitement, stating, "Big news to share with everyone today! I will be a character in the new fighting game FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves! Let’s have fun starting April 24!" This statement has generated significant buzz among fans of both gaming and soccer.
SNK, the developer behind the Fatal Fury series, has also unveiled details about the second phase of the Open Beta Test, which will run from March 27 at 2 AM to March 31 at 5 AM (Brasilia time). This beta will allow players to experience the game before its official release, featuring all characters and modes from the first beta along with the addition of Tizoc and a Training Mode.
In addition to Ronaldo, the game will feature an initial roster of 17 characters, with an additional five fighters to be included in the first season pass. The gameplay will introduce a new REV System, designed to offer unique offensive options right from the start of battles. Players will have the choice between two control schemes: the traditional Arcade Style and a new Smart Style that simplifies the execution of special moves and combos.
The storyline of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves revolves around the legacy of Geese Howard in the fictional city of South Town, where players will engage in combat to establish their dominance. The game will also include an RPG mode titled "Episodes of South Town," allowing players to face various characters, earn experience, and unlock rewards to enhance their fighters.
Ronaldo's inclusion in the game marks a significant moment for the Fatal Fury franchise, which has not released a new title in over 20 years. This revival is part of SNK's broader strategy to reinvigorate its classic franchises, now under the ownership of Saudi investors. The excitement surrounding Ronaldo's character is palpable, with many fans eager to see how his soccer skills translate into the game mechanics.
As a player, Ronaldo has an impressive resume, boasting 34 titles throughout his career, including seven national championships in England, Spain, and Italy. He has also secured five UEFA Champions League titles and four FIFA Club World Cups, alongside notable achievements with the Portuguese national team, such as winning the Euro Cup and the UEFA Nations League. Furthermore, he is the first player in history to score in five consecutive World Cups, and with over 900 official goals, he holds the record for the highest scorer in men's soccer history.
The anticipation for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves continues to grow as the release date approaches. With Ronaldo's star power and the promise of innovative gameplay, both gamers and soccer fans alike are counting down the days until they can experience this unique crossover. The upcoming beta phase will provide a glimpse into the game’s mechanics and character interactions, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting addition to the fighting game genre.
For those interested in participating in the Open Beta, it will be available on various platforms, including Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox. The beta will allow players to explore the game’s features, engage in one-on-one battles, and get a feel for the combat system before the official launch.
As the gaming community gears up for this monumental release, the collaboration between SNK and Cristiano Ronaldo stands out as a noteworthy event that bridges the worlds of sports and video gaming. With its innovative approach and the inclusion of a global icon, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves aims to capture the hearts of fans from both realms, making it a must-play title in 2025.
