Published on: September 28, 2025
Code Mystics Responds to AI Asset Accusations in Real Bout Fatal Fury 2 PC Port
Code Mystics, the renowned developer responsible for numerous classic game remasters, is addressing a wave of community concern following the release of Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers as a 'Premium' PC port on Steam.
The rerelease, which launched under SNK's new Neo Geo Premium Selection label on September 29, 2025, has come under scrutiny over allegations that generative AI was involved in the creation of some in-game assets.
Background: Real Bout Fatal Fury 2, originally released in 1998, is a celebrated one-on-one fighting game from SNK's iconic Fatal Fury series.
The new PC port, developed by Code Mystics, introduces a host of modern features, including smooth rollback netcode, extensive online lobbies for up to nine players, advanced practice modes, and a gallery showcasing 59 pieces of Fatal Fury art.
These enhancements aim to bring the classic title to a contemporary audience on platforms like Steam, with robust training and competitive options available for both local and online play.
Community Concerns Over AI-Generated Assets
Shortly after launch, accusations emerged on social media suggesting that some assets used in the Real Bout Fatal Fury 2 port had been produced using AI technologies.
Addressing these claims, Code Mystics released a statement that conveyed their position: "We are horrified to see misinformation suggesting the use of AI art in our recent #RB2 release.
We deeply respect the dedication of skilled artists and strongly oppose the use of AI-generated assets in our projects.
As a gesture of transparency, we have shared working PSD files from several achievement assets."
Despite this effort at openness, skepticism persisted among sections of the community, particularly after one of the shared PSD files reportedly displayed characteristics often associated with AI-generated imagery.
In response, Code Mystics issued a follow-up statement: "We are open to suggestions on what form of evidence would be considered satisfactory proof of our claims.
While, unfortunately, there is no comprehensive surveillance footage documenting the entire asset creation process, we have witnessed the work-in-progress stages ourselves and are confident in the authenticity of our workflow."
A Modernized Release Under Neo Geo Premium Selection
The updated release is significant for SNK, as Real Bout Fatal Fury 2 launches under the Neo Geo Premium Selection label—a curated series of refreshed classics enhanced with features such as online matchmaking, tournament support with multiple formats (single elimination, double elimination, round robin), and a robust gallery of series artwork.
Code Mystics' involvement in this project continues their legacy of revitalizing classic fighting games for a new generation of players.
Additional Context: SNK Ownership and Reception
Since 2022, SNK has been under the ownership of the Saudi Arabian MiSK Foundation, a fact that has generated mixed reactions within the global gaming community.
Despite this, the partnership with experienced developers like Code Mystics signals SNK's ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing its legacy titles for platforms such as Steam and potentially others like the Nintendo Switch and eShop.
In summary, while accusations regarding AI art have cast a shadow over this release, Code Mystics remains steadfast in defending their artistic process and commitment to quality.
As the conversation continues, transparency and open communication between developers and the gaming community remain essential for trust and collaboration in the evolving landscape of video game development.
PC AI Fatal Fury 2 Fatal Fury Real Bout Fatal Fury Real Bout Fatal Fury 2 Code Mystics SNK Neo Geo Premium Selection MiSK Foundation Steam