Waku Waku 7 (1996). Play Free Online

Summary

Waku Waku 7 stands out among Neo Geo MVS fighters for its off‑beat charm and flashy mechanics. Although Sunsoft handled the development, the game leans heavily on the SNK formula: four basic attacks, screen‑zooming super moves and a strong emphasis on character positioning. The roster of nine quirky combatants—seven playable in the arcade and two extra versus‑only fighters in console ports—parodies icons from other titles, each brandishing a flamboyant “Harahara” special that must be charged, flashes a warning, and rings an audible fanfare before unleashing an unblockable strike. Charging can be interrupted, so timing feels risky and rewarding. You can even launch opponents across the whole screen and juggle them while they recover, a rare mechanic for mid‑90s fighters. The title itself plays on the Japanese onomatopoeia “waku waku” (excitement) and references the original seven characters, highlighting Sunsoft’s playful approach after earlier outings like Sugoi Hebereke and Galaxy Fight.

Storyline

Waku Waku 7’s story revolves around the legend of seven magical WakuWaku Balls that grant the owner’s deepest wish. Rai Bakuoh, a cocky 13‑year‑old, chases the balls hoping for ever more exciting adventures, while 14‑year‑old Arina Makihara, the bunny‑eared girl, seeks a nice love. Treasure hunter Dandy‑J is hired to retrieve the balls but admits he has no particular wish in mind. Slash, a cursed swordsman, also has no wish; his ending reveals he believes his destiny is to lift the curse from his blade. Finally, Tesse fights for the balls to cure Dr. Lombrozo’s illness and to fulfill her dream of becoming human.

Edited by Maya Carter