The King of Fighters ALLSTAR is officially ending service

The beloved beat 'em up ARPG, King of Fighters ALLSTAR, is set to end its service unexpectedly on October 30th, 2024. Netmarble, the game's developer, made this announcement on their official blog, revealing that in-game purchases have already been closed. This news comes as a surprise to many, given that King of Fighters ALLSTAR has been thriving for over six years and has featured numerous collaborations with high-profile fighting game franchises. The game itself is rooted in the historically significant King of Fighters series from SNK, which, while slightly niche, has a dedicated fanbase.

According to the developer's detailed announcement, one of the reasons for the closure is the exhaustion of fighters to adapt into the game, despite the extensive roster available from the King of Fighters series. While this may not be the sole reason, it provides some insight into the decision-making process behind the shutdown.

The closure of King of Fighters ALLSTAR adds to the growing trend of long-running mobile live-service games being discontinued in 2024. This trend underscores the challenges faced by developers and publishers in maintaining these games, despite the immense popularity of mobile gaming. It highlights the precarious nature of game preservation in the mobile space and the struggles faced by those managing these titles behind the scenes.

For fans left searching for a new gaming experience, why not explore our list of the best mobile games of 2024 (so far)? This curated selection showcases the top titles across various genres, ensuring there's something for everyone. Alternatively, dive into our weekly feature on the top five new mobile games you need to try. Both lists are regularly updated to keep you informed about the latest and greatest in mobile gaming.