Even with a massive roster, the "all characters unlocked" edition usually features balance patches that allow a DNF Mage to go toe-to-toe with a KOF heavyweight like Terry Bogard.

Suddenly, the battle froze. The rift began to glow not with chaotic violet, but with a blinding gold. The limitations of "Character Select" vanished completely.

Terry Bogard locked eyes with the Male Striker. It was a battle of pure martial arts. The Striker threw a blindingly fast One-Inch Punch, but Terry countered with a Burning Knuckle, the sheer force of the strike creating a crater in the pavement. "Are you okay?" Terry taunted, before unleashing a Power Geyser. The Striker, however, was a master of close combat, weaving through the eruption of energy to deliver a crushing Rising Kick.