SNK Reverses Its Unpopular Slot Reduction for the SWC 2026

SNK has reversed its decision to cut the number of slots available for players competing at the SNK World Championship 2026 for both King of Fighters XV and Samurai Shodown by half.

The decision to reduce the slots was very unpopular with fans. It was announced on the 10th of May and represented a significant departure from 2025's SWC, which had featured 32 slots for KOF XV and 16 for Samurai Shodown.

In a statement on their official X account, the SNK Esports Hub announced:

"After careful internal consideration in response to the community's feedback, we have decided to increase the amount of qualifier slots to 32 for KOF XV and 16 for SAMURAI SHODOWN.

"THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV: 16 slots to 32 slots.

"SAMURAI SHODOWN: 8 slots to 16 slots.

"Note: Due to the increase in slots, rules regarding tiebreakers will be updated and communicated at a later date.

"We aim to provide the best competitive experience for both players and fans, and we hope that this change works in service to that goal.

"We thank you for all of the support and ask for your kind understanding."

How It Works

With the new layout, KOF XV now has the same number of entrants as SNK's flagship game, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, albeit with a smaller prize pool. The qualifier breakdown for KOF XV sees 20 spots come from the global leaderboard, five from Master 2 events, and four from the last chance qualifier, with the remaining three spots to be confirmed alongside the updated tiebreaker rules. For Samurai Shodown, eight qualifiers will come from the global leaderboard, three from Master 2 events, and four from the last chance qualifier, with one spot similarly to be confirmed.

The community has responded positively, with many pleased that SNK have listened to fan feedback and acted on it swiftly. With the slot numbers restored, anticipation for the SWC is expected to rise considerably for what promises to be an exciting competitive year.