Kyo Kusanagi
"The King of Fighters" "(KOF)" is known for its large character roster. On December 5, 2015, at PlayStation Experience, SNK confirmed a 50-character roster for the game. Oda said while researching for the game's new characters, they avoided stereotypes like Japanese sumo wrestlers to produce more diversity in the cast which includes characters of various nationalities. Oda coined the term "Kyo-ify" based on the series' main character Kyo Kusanagi in regards to the stylishness presented in the cast. As a result, Oda aimed the fighters to look as appealing as Kyo. Art director Nobuyuki Kuroki found it unfair that only a few designers were included on the staff.