The King of Fighters '98 UMFE/Tier Lists

Disclaimer: As is normal with tier lists in fighting games, the content on this page is highly subjective and representative of the current understanding of character strengths and weaknesses. A tier list is only as trustworthy as the player who wrote it. A game and its meta develops over time, and '98 UMFE is particularly unexplored compared to most older KOF games. Depending on your goals with the game, tier lists may be completely irrelevant.

Asian Tier Lists

Japanese Tier List

This tier list is a collaboration from multiple Japanese players, posted by EX Billy player Basuke-bu (also known as Kimura). This is a great way to see how the Japanese scene views the game in 2024.

Source: Twitter

Note: This tier list assumes all characters are using their optimal system mechanics. Examples can be found on the wiki.

Chinese Ratio Tier List

These two tier lists are the main tier lists often used for the game, and were the ones formerly on the FAQ page. While they have set a good precedent for a long time, more often than not they are now seen as outdated.

Source: '98 UMFE Discord

Tier list for Extra meter

Tier list for Advanced meter

European Tier Lists

surabu!'s Tier List

surabu! is a '98 UMFE player, streamer and tournament organiser from the UK. He plays mainly rushdown characters in ULT Run/Roll/EXT, while being mostly known for his Saisyu and Ryo.

Source: '98 UMFE Discord

Note: This tier list assumes that all characters are using their optimal system mechanics. Examples can be found on the wiki.

Meaty's Tier List

Meaty is a '98 UMFE player from Germany with consistently strong tournament results, known for running an ADV team of Geese, Mary and EX Yuri.

Source: '98 UMFE Discord

This tier list assumes that all characters are using their optimal system mechanics. Examples can be found on the wiki.

South American Tier Lists

ze_bostola's Tier List

ze_bostola is a '98 UMFE player from Brazil, known for his EXT mode rushdown with Eiji, EX Geese and Rugal.

Source: '98 UMFE Discord

Note: This tier list assumes that all characters are using their optimal system mechanics. Examples can be found on the wiki.