The Hollywood Reporter has exclusively revealed that several iconic SNK video game franchises are poised to expand into various forms of entertainment. Erik Feig’s indie production company, The Arena, is spearheading efforts to adapt titles such as Fatal Fury and Art of Fighting into movies, television series, anime, and manga. Additionally, the company is working on projects based on other popular SNK titles including Metal Slug and Samurai Showdown.
Notably, David S. Goyer, renowned for his work on Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy, is scripting a Fatal Fury feature film. The story centers on brothers Terry and Andy Bogard as they seek justice against the crime lord Geese Howard in South Town. Meanwhile, director Grant Singer is crafting an origin story for Geese, inspired by classic Mafia films like The Godfather. Feig emphasized the narrative depth of the South Town universe, highlighting that it’s more than just a fighting game.
In parallel, Robert Kirkman’s Skybound is producing an animated series titled Fatal Fury: The Vow, which will explore the brothers’ early years and their quest for revenge. The Arena plans to release this series on YouTube to maximize audience engagement. Additionally, Brandon Chen is developing a webtoon adaptation of Art of Fighting, set to debut prior to other formats. Feig described the company’s strategy as building “an entire ecosystem of conversation and connection,” recognizing the lengthy development cycles across multiple media platforms. Matt Reilly, a key figure at The Arena, explained their guiding principle as “muscular prestige,” aiming to create unique, high-quality content that lives up to the strength of the original IP.
Launched in January with support from the Saudi-backed Misk Group and MBC, The Arena also intends to develop original properties beyond SNK titles. Feig confirmed that their investors endorse this broader creative vision, signaling a long-term commitment to diverse storytelling ventures.
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