Garou: Mark of the Wolves, the 1999 SNK classic fighter, launched on PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and PC in 2016 with terrible netcode that made playing the game against opponents online difficult. Now, in 2020, Garou has received a significant update, featuring new netcode.

The news was announced on Twitter by SNK's community manager, who explained that the game will now feature netcode from Code Mystics, which specializes in netcode and emulation.

We are proud to announce @CodeMystics have graciously replaced all PC versions of Garou MOTW with their masterclass netcode and emulation tech containing ports. Owners with the previous version receive a free upgrade. (Steam, GOG, PS4, and Vita)#MOTW #GAROU #NEOGEO #ROLLBACK pic.twitter.com/eABBcFF6XT — KAISERWAVE (@krispykaiser) January 23, 2020

Code Mystics uses "rollback" netcode, instead of input delay, to account for the slight lag in online play. Rollback is a method that means your actions occur on screen the instant you input the controls, rather than having any lag; it can mean that your opponents look a little jerkier, but it gives you a greater sense of direct control. Here's a primer video on the distinction between these methods.

Steam and GOG users can still use the older method of online play by entering the beta code "dotemuversion" if they so desire. On PS4 and PS Vita, an update has changed the netcode permanently.

This news unfortunately does not extend to the Nintendo Switch version of the game, which is not playable online.



SNK's most recent new fighting game was 2019's Samurai Shodown.





