For years, gamers have dominated football simulations with Cristiano Ronaldo, executing his trademark siu celebration on digital pitches. Now, the legendary forward swaps goals for combos as he enters the ring in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves—a groundbreaking crossover between sports and fighting games.

Ronaldo’s Virtual Fighting Debut

Developed by SNK, the game marks Ronaldo’s first appearance in a traditional fighting title. The trailer reveals his character donning a #7 jersey and captain’s armband, attacking opponents with a blazing blue football before unleashing his iconic celebration. His move set blends football techniques with martial arts, making him a unique addition to the roster of 15 fighters.

A Legendary Franchise Returns

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves revives SNK’s classic series after a 26-year hiatus, with its last installment released in 1999. The game’s website describes Ronaldo as:

"One of the world’s top footballers, who hones his skills in South Town during breaks. His football-driven techniques make him unbeatable against seasoned fighters."

Beyond the Pitch

Ronaldo, currently with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, previously starred in the 2015 mobile game Ronaldo & Hugo: Superstar Skaters. Notably, SNK is majority-owned by Saudi Arabia’s Misk Foundation, linking the footballer’s in-game debut to his real-world ties.

Key Details at a Glance

• Release Date: April 24, 2024
• Platforms: Likely consoles/PC (TBA)
• Ronaldo’s Role: Hybrid fighter with football-inspired attacks
• Franchise Legacy: 12th mainline Fatal Fury game since 1991

Why This Matters

The crossover reflects gaming’s trend of blending sports with other genres, offering fans a fresh way to interact with sporting icons. For Ronaldo, it’s another milestone in expanding his digital footprint beyond football simulators.