3 Count Bout / Fire Suplex (NGM-043)(NGH-043)
Getting to Know 3 Count Bout / Fire Suplex (NGM-043)(NGH-043)
3 Count Bout, also known as Fire Suplex in some regions, is a pro wrestling game released by SNK for the Neo Geo MVS arcade system in 1993. The cart ID NGM-043 indicates the MVS version, while NGH-043 is the AES home cartridge. This is an official SNK title, not a hack or mod, and it brings the over-the-top style of 1990s Japanese wrestling to the 2D fighting template the Neo Geo was known for.
You pick a wrestler from a roster of exaggerated characters and enter a series of matches with different rules: standard singles, tag team, cage matches, and battle royals. The core gameplay revolves around grappling, striking, and running the ropes to build momentum. You can execute suplexes, bodyslams, and other wrestling moves, and you win by pinning your opponent for a three-count or by forcing a submission. The action is fast and looser than a traditional fighting game, with a focus on positioning and timing rather than strict combos.
Today, 3 Count Bout stands as a fun oddity in SNK's catalog. It is not as polished or deep as their fighting game giants like Fatal Fury or King of Fighters, but it has its own charm with colorful characters and chaotic multi-man matches. If you enjoy arcade wrestling or want to see what SNK did with the genre, it is worth a playthrough. Just keep in mind that the grapple system takes some getting used to, and the AI can be cheap. It is a niche title that fans of retro wrestling or Neo Geo often appreciate.
How to Play 3 Count Bout / Fire Suplex (NGM-043)(NGH-043) Online
When you start the game, you first see the title screen. Press Start to move to the character select. Here you choose from several wrestlers using the D-Pad and confirm with X. You can also select the match type if you are in a versus mode. In single-player, you will progress through a series of matches against AI opponents.
The core loop is simple: enter a ring, use the D-Pad to move, press S to attack or run toward the ropes. Press X to jump or use certain moves when close. Grappling is done by getting near an opponent and pressing the attack button while holding a direction. You can also run to the ropes to bounce off and gain momentum for a stronger attack. Your goal is to wear down the opponent's health bar, then attempt a pin by pressing the attack button while near the downed opponent. A count of three wins the match. Be careful not to get pinned yourself.
The game menu and text are in English, so navigation is straightforward. There is no save function, so you need to beat the game in one session. If you are playing on an emulator, you can use save states. Experiment with different characters, as each has unique moves. The controls are responsive once you get used to the two-button layout for strikes and grapples.
3 Count Bout / Fire Suplex (NGM-043)(NGH-043) Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: Joystick / Movement
- X: Button 1
- S: Button 2
- Z: Button 3
- A: Button 4
- Q: Button 5
- E: Button 6
- Enter: Start / 1P
- V: Coin / Insert
Comments (0)