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{{short description|Fictional character}}
{{good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2020}}
{{Infobox character
|image=IoriYagamiXIII.png
|name=Iori Yagami
|caption=Iori Yagami's first outfit by [[Eisuke Ogura]]
|firstgame=''[[The King of Fighters '95]]'' (1995)
|series=[[The King of Fighters]]
|designer=Yuichiro Hiraki
|voice= '''Japanese'''<br>[[Kunihiko Yasui]]<ref>{{cite video game|title=The King of Fighters '95 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 25, 1995 |platform=Neo Geo |level=Credits}}</ref> (''KOF '95'' - ''Neo Geo Heroes: Ultimate Shooting'')<br/>[[Takanori Hoshino]] (''KOF XIV'' onwards)<br/>Chisa Horii (female; ''SNKH: TTF'')<ref name=chisa>{{cite AV media|url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=MTEP7NIwD3w |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/MTEP7NIwD3w |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=SNKヒロインズ - DLCキャラクター「ミスX」|via=YouTube|date=October 25, 2018|access-date=October 25, 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref><br/>Sho Sudo (Japanese dub of the ''King of Fighters'' movie)
|portrayer = [[Will Yun Lee]] (2010 film)
|origin = [[Japan]]
|nationality = [[Japanese people|Japanese]]
|fighting_style = Yagami style of ancient martial arts + Pure instinct
}}
{{nihongo|'''Iori Yagami'''|八神 庵|Yagami Iori|lead=yes}} is a character from [[SNK]]'s ''[[The King of Fighters]]'' [[video game]] series. The character first appeared in ''[[The King of Fighters '95]]'' as the leader of the Rivals Team, as the initial enemy and later rival of [[Kyo Kusanagi]]. Iori is the heir of the Yagami clan, who use [[pyrokinesis|pyrokinetic]] powers and sealed the [[Orochi (King of Fighters)|Orochi]] devil along with the Kusanagi and Yata clans. Iori suffers from a curse – {{nihongo|"The Riot of the Blood"|血の暴走|Chi no Bōso}} – under which he becomes faster, stronger and wilder, exhibiting a deadly tendency to indiscriminately attack everyone in close proximity. In this state, Iori is commonly called "Wild Iori" or {{nihongo|"Orochi Iori"|月の夜大蛇の血に狂う庵|Tsuki no Yoru Orochi no Chi ni Kuruu Iori|lit. Insane Iori with Blood of Orochi Under the Night of the Moon}}.<ref name=curse/> Aside from the main series, Iori appears in several other media series, including [[Spin-off (media)|spin-offs]], crossover video games and comic adaptations of the series.
Iori was created as Kyo's rival; his name and abilities were designed to relate him with the legend of ''[[Yamata no Orochi]]''. The designers ended up liking him so much they are careful of the character's [[Characterisation|development]] as the series expands.
As a result, Iori sometimes helps Kyo to have the opportunity to fight him. Finding his design appealing, new outfits presented the SNK staff with difficulties as they devised new appearances for the character that would retain his popularity.
Video game journalists have praised Iori Yagami as one of the most powerful characters in the series. Reviewers have also cited Iori as one of the best characters from the games, labeling him as a veteran character and praising his appearance as one of SNK's best creations. "Miss X", Iori's [[cross-dressing|crossdressing]] form from ''[[SNK Gals' Fighters]]'' and the additional female one of ''[[SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy]]'', also received attention for its humor. A series of collectible items based on Iori's likeness, including key chains and figurines, have been manufactured.
==Conception and creation==
Iori Yagami was created by Yuichiro Hiraki who aimed to create an ideal rival to Kyo Kusanagi's character; Since Kyo hot-blooded in some ways, the development team just assumed Iori would be the opposite, cool and blue-blooded.<ref name="creator">{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160929170705/http://game.capcom.com/cfn/sfv/column-112606.html/|url=http://game.capcom.com/cfn/sfv/column-112606.html/|title=主人公|publisher=Capcom|language=ja|access-date=October 26, 2019|archive-date=September 29, 2016}}</ref> Iori's name is loosely based on the Japanese mythological creature [[Yamata no Orochi]].<ref>{{cite book|title=ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ'97オフィシャルコレクション (ゲーメストムック Vol. 93) ムック – |year=1997|isbn=978-4881993811|publisher=Shinshosha|page=18}}</ref> In contrast to Kyo's life, SNK decided to keep Iori's life as private despite some related material mentioning the fact that Iori has relatives.<ref>{{cite AV media|title=Snk Characters Sounds Collection Vol.11 八神庵|id=PCCB-00378|publisher=Scitron, Pony Canyon|year=1999}}</ref> Though Iori and Kyo first meet in ''KOF'', writer [[Akihiko Ureshino]] decided to take freedom in his novelizations to foreshadow more their meetings in novels.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ureshino.hatenadiary.jp/entry/2018/04/17/%E3%80%8E%E9%9C%96%E9%9B%A8%E3%80%8F_%E4%BD%9C%E5%93%81%E8%A7%A3%E8%AA%AC|title=『霖雨』 作品解説|work=とびだせどうぶつの森 QRコード置き場 |date=April 16, 2018 |language=Japanese|access-date=September 15, 2024}}</ref> After watching fan reactions at initial ___location testing for ''King of Fighters '95'', several staff members predicted Iori would be popular.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/comment/remember_kof.php?num=8| title=Remembrances of KOF: An Interview with C.A.C Yamazaki | website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website | access-date=March 24, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080418040428/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/comment/remember_kof.php?num=8|archive-date=April 18, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/comment/remember_kof.php?num=11 |title=Remembrances of KOF: An Interview with Mr. Marito |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=March 24, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090425234426/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/comment/remember_kof.php?num=8 |archive-date=April 25, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Iori was created not only to the yang to Kyo's ying but also inherit the popularity of the ''Art of Fighting'' and ''Fatal Fury'' series. In order to stand out besides being Kyo's rival, the plot of the Orochi arc would give Iori a unique Desperation Move that symbolizes his clan's past when being corrupted by Orochi: the Forbidden Method 1211: Eight Maidens. ''The King of Fighters '96'' was created to explore more the Orochi lore through the new host Chizuru Kagura who wants help from the protagonist and his rival.<ref>{{cite book |title=The King of Fighters: The Ultimate History |date=2022 |publisher=Bitmap Books |isbn=9781838019181 |page=44}}</ref>
Iori was originally introduced in ''The King of Fighters '95'' as the leader of a team composed of [[Billy Kane]], [[Eiji Kisaragi]] and himself. Each member shares a rivalry with another character in the game. Although the staff members worked hard to impress their superiors at SNK, Iori's characterization caused them to discard the team in the next game in the series. In the rival team's ending, Iori betrays Billy and Eiji, generating anger from the ''[[Art of Fighting]]'' developers for what Iori did to their character.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kofaniv.snk-corp.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=billy|title=Billy Kane|publisher=SNK|access-date=October 31, 2018|archive-date=October 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181028013757/http://kofaniv.snk-corp.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=billy|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kofaniv.snk-corp.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=eiji|title=Eiji Kisaragi|publisher=SNK|access-date=October 30, 2018|archive-date=November 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103055237/http://kofaniv.snk-corp.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=eiji|url-status=live}}</ref>
Iori is a [[berserker]] due to the Orochi demon blood within him. This version of the character, officially named "Orochi Iori", is hinted to have existed before his debut in ''[[The King of Fighters '97]]'' as one of the game's [[mid-boss]]es. This form of Iori was designed to easily overpower other characters.<ref name="orochiori">{{cite web| url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=orochi-iori| title=Orochi Iori Official Profile| website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website| access-date=March 24, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207201041/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=orochi-iori| archive-date=February 7, 2009| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> Series' flagship director Toyohisa Tanabe states that the staff were initially reluctant to add this version of Iori to the series' roster; they were worried about fans' reactions but did so to add more impact to the Orochi saga's climax. Tanabe was particularly pleased to see surprised reactions from female fans to this form during ''KOF '97''{{'}}s ___location testing. Another minor development of the character was his change of "most valued possession/valued treasure" information. A girlfriend was also listed in ''The King of Fighters '95'', ''The King of Fighters '99'', and ''The King of Fighters 2000''. Starting with ''The King of Fighters 2001'' and every entry after that, however, the space is listed as "None". The SNK staff commented that it is curious that he does not have a girlfriend anymore.<ref>{{Cite book | year=2004 | editor=Akihiko Ureshino | title=The King of Fighters Perfect Reader | pages=124 | language=ja | publisher=Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. | isbn=4-8222-1711-6}}</ref>
===Portrayal===
After working in 10 ''KOF'' novelizations, Akihiko Ureshino noted that SNK used Kyo and Iori too much and believed they should be given a rest after ''The King of Fighters '97''. Kyo and Iori were supposed to disappear due to business reasons or the requests of enthusiastic fans, but in the end they have continued to appear ever since. After taking a step back in the "Nests Saga" they are then playing important roles in the "Ash Saga". The problem is the positioning of these two within the ''Maximum Impact'' series. In the "Ash Saga" Kyo, Iori, and Chizuru's Three Sacred Treasures play a major role in the "Orochi demon Returns" type story, and in the previous "Nests Saga," Kyo was involved in the story to some extent, but not Iori, in terms of the connections with the new protagonist K'. However, the Miera brothers were the main focus of the ''Maximum Impact'' spin-offs relegating Kyo and Iori for the first time to minor characters. Both the Ash arc and ''Maximum Impact'' games were developed at the same time which resulted in Kyo and Iori still playing a major role in the ''Another Day'' original video animation that promotes ''Maximum Impact 2''.<ref name="novel">{{cite web |title=夕陽と月|language=Japanese|access-date=September 9, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604124639/http://www.snkplaymore.jp/blog/ureshino/archives/2006/02/post_12.html|url=http://www.snkplaymore.jp/blog/ureshino/archives/2006/02/post_12.html|archive-date=June 4, 2011|website=SNK Playmore}}</ref> While Kyo and Iori are always arguing with each other, Ureshino was careful with how writing them to the point their introduction in ''The King of Fighters '99'' added a subtext of happiness of the two rivals meeting again, believing they had died when fighting Orochi and remained as hidden characters.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://note.com/ureshino_te/n/n07971ee5587b|title=【SNK】わりとしゃべってたろ？【KOF】|website=Note|author=Ureshino, Akihiko|date=March 25, 2024 |language=Japanese|access-date=August 29, 2024}}</ref> By ''The King of Fighters XV'', Ureshino aims to make the relationship between Iori and Kyo important, claiming that should something bad happen to Kyo's life, Iori would find no reason for existing.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://note.com/ureshino_te/n/nd533e1948556|website=Note|author=Ureshino, Akihiko|title=【SNK】京と○○【KOF】｜うれしのふ｜note|access-date=February 20, 2021|language=Japanese|archive-date=March 13, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313190743/https://note.com/ureshino_te/n/nd533e1948556|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he refuses to make Iori act friendlier with Kyo and not mature as it would ruin his original appeal.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://note.com/ureshino_te/n/nb7c18d98ee55|title=【SNK】キャラの成長【KOF】|website=Note Ne|access-date=September 27, 2024|author=Ureshino, Akihiko|date=May 10, 2022 |language=Japanese}}</ref>
In an interview with Iori's [[Seiyū|Japanese voice actor]], [[Kunihiko Yasui]] comments that he feels responsible as a voice actor for his performances as Iori, taking care to sound different in each installment as a means of developing and protecting his character's humanity.<ref>{{Cite book | date=September 20, 2005 | editor=Akihiko Ureshino | title=The King of Fighters Perfect Reader | pages=160 | language=ja | publisher=Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. | isbn=4-8222-1711-6}}</ref> Yasui was replaced by [[Takanori Hoshino]] starting in ''The King of Fighters XIV''; Hoshino said he was delighted to be the new voice actor of the character, thanking SNK.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/shockhearts777/status/764027299977056256|publisher=Twitter|access-date=September 22, 2018|date=August 12, 2016|title=八神庵の声を担当させていただける事になりました！様々な想いはあるかと思いますが、誠心誠意向き合いたいと思います！宜しくお願い致します！|language=ja|archive-date=July 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210723065520/https://twitter.com/Shockhearts777/status/764027299977056256|url-status=live}}</ref> Chisa Horii voices Iori's female incarnation in ''SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy''.<ref name=chisa/>
===Design===
One of the planned objectives for ''[[The King of Fighters '95]]'' was to properly introduce Iori as Kyo's rival. According to his creators, Iori's personality and other aspects of his character such as his phrases and unique moves "broke the mold for characters in fighting games at that time" resulting in a unique design from the point of view of the fans.<ref name=kofaniviori/> Like Kyo, several aspects of Iori, including his surname and abilities, were designed to relate him to the Japanese legend Yamata no Orochi, which was the inspiration for the plot.<ref name=kofaniviori>{{cite web | url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=iori | title=Iori Yagami Official Profile | quote=When you think of Iori Yagami, his intense personality most likely comes to mind. His moves are unique, and his dives choice of hairstyle, wardrobe, and manner of speaking was certainly a personality that broke the mold of former characters in fighting games at that time. During the initial ___location tests to determine the popularity of the game, Iori was the character who stood out most. His hair and his lines to provoke his opponents ("You think I'm scary, do you?") excited his fans to no end. | website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website | access-date=March 24, 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410074739/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=iori | archive-date=April 10, 2008 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all}}</ref> The pixel art of Iori was made by Yuichiro Hiraki who, despite leaving SNK to work in another project a few years later, was asked by [[Capcom]]'s Kaname Fujioka to once again work on the character's design for the crossover fighting game ''[[Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Fight 2000]]''.<ref>{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=198}}</ref> During the early development stages of ''[[The King of Fighters '99]]'', SNK planned to exclude Iori and Kyo from the game because the company wanted to focus the story on the new protagonist, [[K']]. They reversed this decision because of the characters' popularity.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=kyo-1| title=Kyo Kusanagi-1 Official Profile| website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website| access-date=March 24, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150915223430/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/index.php?num=kyo-1| archive-date=September 15, 2015| url-status=dead| df=mdy-all}}</ref> The repeated appearance of Iori, Kyo, and other SNK regular characters in the series is at the insistence of the marketers and main planners, making it a challenge to decide the story for each title.<ref>{{Cite book | year=2005 | editor=Akihiko Ureshino | title=The King of Fighters Perfect Reader | pages=136~139 | language=ja | publisher=Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. |isbn= 4-8222-1711-6}}</ref>
Because of his popularity among fans, some of the series' main designers have said Iori is "difficult to draw for". Illustrator Shinkiro said he thought Iori was one of the series' wildest characters because of his hairstyle; similar sentiments were expressed by ''[[Last Blade]]'' illustrator Tonko.<ref name=kofanivmanhua/> ''[[KOF: Maximum Impact]]'' producer [[Falcoon]] stated that attempting to change an "untouchable" design such as Iori's put him under severe pressure. He stated that creating Iori's alternative design that appears in the ''Maximum Impact'' series almost felt "unforgivable" because he felt unsure of fans' reaction to the change.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.snkplaymore.jp/blog/falcoon/archives/2006/02/post_7.html| title=アナザーコスチュームのこと・・・（一回目）| publisher=Falcoon official blog| access-date=January 21, 2009| url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060501213857/http://www.snkplaymore.jp/blog/falcoon/archives/2006/02/post_7.html | archive-date=May 1, 2006| df=mdy-all}}</ref>
For the ''Maximum Impact'' spin-off games, Iori's characteristic hairstyle was changed dramatically. Throughout the series, his normal costume consists of a short jacket and [[bondage pants]]; without changing his design and adjusting only his coloring, a diverse number of image variations can be brought about.<ref>{{Cite book | date=June 17, 2006 | page=50 | title=The King of Fighters Maximum Impact Artbook| language=ja | publisher=SNK Playmore | isbn=978-4-7973-3543-9}}</ref> In ''The King of Fighters XII'' and ''The King of Fighters XIII'' Iori and Kyo were meant to wear new outfit that emphasized their sexual appeal but due to time constraints, they were removed. As a result, they sport similar outfits to the ones seen in Ash arc though there was emphasis in giving Iori the same style.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/snk/images/8/83/Early_Designs_KOFXII.jpg/|title=THE KING OF FIGHTERS XII OFFICIAL GUIDE|work=Hobby Japan|language=Japanese|isbn=978-4894259058}}</ref> During the making of ''The King of Fighters XIV'', Nobuyuki Kuroki wanted Iori, except the character's hair, to be redesigned. Character designer Eisuke Ogura created a new outfit for Iori and asked the modeler to focus on his masculinity and to pay close attention to the way the design of the character's eyes.<ref>{{Cite book | year=2016 | title=The King of Fighters XIV artbook| page=45| publisher=Atlus}}</ref> This new design, alongside Kyo's, provoked controversy when it was revealed. ''KOF XIV'' director Yasuyuki Oda said the team wanted the characters to have new looks because the game is set in another story arc.<ref>{{cite web| url=https://xw.qq.com/games/20151017000037| script-title=zh:小田泰之：对拳皇9OL满意| publisher=QQ| access-date=February 4, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180205001207/https://xw.qq.com/games/20151017000037| archive-date=February 5, 2018| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> A new design was created by Tomohiro Nakata for the next game, ''The King of Fighters XV''; He expressed pressure of giving him a proper appeal that makes it worth of the character's fame. The new outfit focuses on red and black clothes and continue focusing on drawing the Yagami Crest of the moon in his back as usual.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/tomohiro-nakata-was-nervous-when-designing-kof-xv-iori-yagami/|title=Tomohiro Nakata Was 'Nervous When Designing' Iori for KOF XV|website=Siliconera|date=February 4, 2011|access-date=September 27, 2024}}</ref>
===Fighting style===
When fighting, Iori employs the "Yagami style of ancient martial arts" as well as an art labelled as "Pure instinct" which involves the usage of purple flames. His strongest technique is known as {{nihongo|Kin 1211 Shiki: Yaotome|禁千弐百拾壱式・八稚女||lit. "Forbidden Style 1211: Eight Maidens"}} which was created out of the need of making lore of the Orochi arc where Yasakani were revealed to have learned this skill from the antagonist alongside the Hakkesshu serving the main antagonist. Iori's brutal moves were also noted to be made in parallel with ''[[Mortal Kombat]]'' franchise due to the amount of blood loss victims of Iori's attacks suffer.<ref>{{cite book |title=The King of Fighters: The Ultimate History |date=2022 |publisher=Bitmap Books |isbn=9781838019181 |page=45}}</ref> In ''The King of Fighters XIII'', Iori's gameplay mechanics were modified to become a close-range fighter. Despite losing his flaming techniques temporarily during KOF XIV, he continued fighting by using his fingernails like claws to scratch his opponents. Iori's strongest technique is {{nihongo|"Forbidden 1218 Shiki: Yatagarasu"|禁千弐百拾八式・八咫烏}}, a new move that focuses on violent combinations and serves as a reference to the character's ending from ''The King of Fighters '96'', in which he murders his teammates. Iori's 10th color scheme in the game matches that of his classic outfit. During development of the game, details were added to increase the similarities.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2010/06/post_17.html| script-title=ja:チーム紹介 八神チーム| publisher=SNK Playmore| date=June 24, 2011| access-date=August 9, 2011| language=ja| title={title}| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709093131/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2010/06/post_17.html| archive-date=July 9, 2011| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> This version, featuring his classic techniques, was designed to avoid surpassing the current Iori so players could choose the fighting style they prefer in the game.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2011/10/post_45.html| script-title=ja:炎を取り戻した庵について| publisher=SNK Playmore| date=October 6, 2011| access-date=October 6, 2011| language=ja| title={title}| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111007115734/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2011/10/post_45.html| archive-date=October 7, 2011| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> This was further emphasized in the console version of ''The King of Fighters XIII'', in which Iori had his moveset were adjusted for better balance by not using flaming techniques.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2011/10/post_47.html| script-title=ja:第２回：既存キャラの調整について| publisher=SNK Playmore| date=October 20, 2011| access-date=October 24, 2011| language=ja| title={title}| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111025075455/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2011/10/post_47.html| archive-date=October 25, 2011| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> Meanwhile, the Orochi Iori version was designed to be more overpowered than regular playable character as result of being originally set as a boss.<ref name="orochiori"/>
As downloadable content for ''The King of Fighters XIII'', SNK added the original Iori Yagami who can wield flames for his fighting style. This version was meant to be innovative similar rather than make him look like his classic ''The King of Fighters '95'' persona. Despite being the same person, the playstyle of Iori's flames is highly different from the regular Iori whose attacks involve hand-to-hand combat. Nevertheless, he was balanced by SNK in order to avoid making the character be overpowered when exploring his special moves. Some distinguishable moves were given to him in order to give the player multiple options of tactics. This Neo Max was created with the idea of impressing gamers so that they would be attracted to use this version of the character.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://game.snk-corp.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2011/10/post_45.html|title=炎を取り戻した庵について|publisher=SNK|language=ja|access-date=October 22, 2019|archive-date=July 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717000215/https://game.snk-corp.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2011/10/post_45.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''KOFXIV'', the commands for Iori's moves were also affected; one of his strongest attacks, the {{nihongo|Ura 316 Shiki Saia|裏316裏参}}, would require high skill for regular players because SNK attempted to balance the characters.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/317/G031749/20160613002/index_2.html|title=新生SNKのモノ作りはここから始まる。「餓狼MOW2」の話題も飛び出した，「THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV」開発陣インタビー|publisher=4Gamer|access-date=October 31, 2018|language=ja|archive-date=February 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216151607/https://www.4gamer.net/games/317/G031749/20160613002/index_2.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Oda wanted to keep his gameplay intact in order to avoid fan backlash.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.orochinagi.com/2015/10/interview-with-kofxiv-producer-kofxiii-hits-top-3-sales-charts-fgc-ebook-free-pdf|title=Interview with #KOFXIV Producer #KOFXIII hits top 3 sales charts #FGC #ebook FREE PDF|website=OrochiNagi|access-date=August 9, 2020|archive-date=April 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210423114301/https://www.orochinagi.com/2015/10/interview-with-kofxiv-producer-kofxiii-hits-top-3-sales-charts-fgc-ebook-free-pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
==Appearances==
===In video games===
====In ''The King of Fighters'' series====
Iori is a violent, sadistic person who suffers from trauma because of his clan's past. In ancient times, the Yagami clan was known as the Yasakani who, With the help of the Yata and Kusanagi clans, sealed the snake demon Orochi. As time passed, the Yasakani clan grew tired of living in the shadow of the Kusanagi and made a blood pact with Orochi that gave them greater powers but cursed the clan and its descendants forever. They renamed their clan the Yagami and set out to destroy the Kusanagi with their new powers.<ref name=clanquote2>{{cite video game|quote='''Spirit represented by purple flame:''' All is from the Orochi blood! From our blood allegiance. With the Orochi clan!/'''Kyo:''' Our clan? Yagami? The Yasakani clan?/'''Spirit represented by purple flame:''' A 660 year old error... It can't be corrected!|title=The King of Fighters '97 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 28, 1997 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Chizuru:''' The crimson flame of Yagami came from a part of your long-repressed true essence./'''Iori:''' Nonsense! I don't by [sic] that Freudian garbage!/'''Chizuru:''' The blue flames you control come from the Orochi power flowing within you. |title=The King of Fighters '96 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 30, 1996 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref> The curse also causes each heir to die young and each mother to die in childbirth. Iori becomes obsessed with killing his heir Kyo, disregarding their clans' past. This sometimes results in Iori helping Kyo to defeat his enemies and to finish their battles.<ref name=enemy/>
Iori Yagami first appeared in ''[[The King of Fighters '95]]'', in which he enters an annual tournament as the leader of the Rival Team with Billy Kane and [[Eiji Kisaragi]]. After the team fails to defeat Kyo's team, Iori betrays his teammates.<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Iori:''' What a fool! Such power can only by mine! Well, shall we wrap this up?/'''Eiji:''' What?/'''Billy:''' Hey! You're... you're Geese!/'''Iori:''' Just wait, Kyo. You're next for extermination. You and all Kusanagis! Yah, hah, hah|title=The King of Fighters '95 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 25, 1995 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref> In the [[The King of Fighters '96|next video game]], Iori teams up with two women, [[Vice (King of Fighters)|Vice and Mature]], servants of the Orochi demon.<ref>{{cite web|title=The King of Fighters '98 |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/history.php?num=kof98 |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=January 16, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090220174124/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/history.php?num=kof98 |archive-date=February 20, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=KOF 2002 |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/history.php?num=kof2002 |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=January 29, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207195941/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/history.php?num=kof2002 |archive-date=February 7, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/neowave/|title=The King of Fighters Neowave official website|publisher=[[SNK Playmore]]|access-date=August 8, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207193556/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/neowave/character/index.html|archive-date=February 7, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> During the '96 competition, Iori meets [[Chizuru Kagura]], the heir of the Yata clan who wants to gather Kyo and Iori on her team to seal Orochi. They defeat the Orochi follower [[Goenitz]] but neither Iori nor Kyo agree with the idea.<ref name=curse>{{cite video game|quote='''Mature:''' Are you shaking?/'''Vice:''' Yeah, he ain't normal. But, that guy... I mean... He's really tough./'''Iori:''' W, what? I can't see! Yaaah! Unnhhh! Gya... GWAAAAH!/'''Vice:''' Hey, Yagami, take it easy!/'''Mature:''' Oh, my God.../'''Iori:''' I, it's the... Riot of the Blood!/'''Vice:''' Gah. You mean there's nothing we can do?/'''Mature:''' Ooowaaaaah! Ya, Yagami!/'''Iori:''' GOOOWAAAAH!|title=The King of Fighters '96 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 30, 1996 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref> When Iori leaves with his teammates, he cannot control his surge of Orochi power, resulting in their deaths.<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Goenitz:''' I guess I underestimated you. I never thought... but this isn't the end for you./'''Iori:''' Hah! "ONE-FOR-THE-ROAD" BLAST!/'''Goenitz:''' AHHHHH!/'''Kyo:''' Hah! Eat this, pal! SERPENT WAVE!/'''Goenitz:'''GYAAAH! Why? Why is there no wind? GYAAAAAH!|title=The King of Fighters '96 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 30, 1996 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref> Iori continues to suffer from multiple outbreaks; during ''[[The King of Fighters '97]]'' he attacks other team members and appears as a [[Boss (video games)|sub-boss character]] in the game, depending on the characters the player uses.<ref>{{cite web |title=Iori Team Official Story ~ KOF 97 |url=http://kof.confusticated.com/frames.html |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=August 10, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705051310/http://kof.confusticated.com/frames.html |archive-date=July 5, 2008}}</ref> He later joins Chizuru and Kyo to confront and seal Orochi.<ref name=enemy>{{cite video game|quote='''Iori:''' Aaaaah!! /'''Orochi:''' Kill Kusanagi and Yata! Break the Shingi troica! Fight, my Orochi son! Listen, Yagami! /'''Iori:'''Ahhhhhhh!!!/'''Orochi:''' Ah?!|title=The King of Fighters '97 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 28, 1997 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Kyo:''' Finish it, Kagura! Can you do it? /'''Chizuru:''' As a mirror keeper... I must do it! /'''Orochi:''' Fools! A waste of time! If I release my remaining power.../'''Iori:''' Waahh!/'''Chizuru:''' His power... too strong! Kusanagi! Quickly... /'''Kyo:''' Heeaahhh! Woooohh!|title=The King of Fighters '97 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 28, 1997 |platform=Neo Geo}}</ref>
In most versions of ''[[The King of Fighters '99]]'', Iori is a secret character that can be faced as a bonus fight at the end of the game if the player scores enough points. In the story, Iori discovers the creation of Kyo clones and enters the annual tournament, where he finds those responsible, an organization named [[List of The King of Fighters characters#The NESTS cartel|NESTS]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Iori Team Official Story ~ KOF 99 |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/kof99_story/index.php?num=yagami |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=August 10, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080528113043/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/kof99_story/index.php?num=yagami |archive-date=May 28, 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> Iori follows the battles in secret and fights against the NESTS' agents to continue his fight against Kyo.<ref>{{cite video game|title=The King of Fighters 2000 |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=July 26, 2000 |platform=Neo Geo |quote='''Kyo:''' Consider that payback for the way you used us!/'''Zero:''' "'Used' you? The strength of your Mushiki move... was used to power the Zero Cannon. It's the ultimate compliment!/'''Kyo:''' In your sick fantasies! You conceited freak!.../'''Zero:''' Chill out. I'll soon be dead. Instead of me, think... of the one who awaits you.../'''Kyo:'''...Someone awaits me?/'''Iori:''' Enough prattle..../'''Kyo:''' Don't you think? Here's "someone"! Let's rumble, dude!}}</ref> In ''[[The King of Fighters 2001]]'', an agent named [[Seth (King of Fighters)|Seth]] invites Iori to join his team for the next ''King of Fighters'' tournament, assuming he would get his shot against Kyo.<ref>{{cite web |title=Iori Team Official Story ~ KOF 2002 |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/kof2001_story/index.php?num=iori |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=August 10, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080528175725/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/kof2001_story/index.php?num=iori |archive-date=May 28, 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> While his regular form appears in ''KOF 2002'', his Orochi form is also featured in the PlayStation 2 port of the game and the remake of ''KOF '98''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/xbox/action/thekingoffighters2002/hints.html?tag=tabs;cheats|title=The King of Fighters 2002 Hints & Cheats|website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=February 26, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/the-king-of-fighters-98-ultimate-match/cheats.html?tag=tabs%253Bcheats|title=The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match Hints & Cheats|website=[[GameSpot]]|access-date=August 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812003410/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/the-king-of-fighters-98-ultimate-match/cheats.html?tag=tabs%253Bcheats|archive-date=August 12, 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[The King of Fighters 2003]]'', Chizuru appears to both Kyo and Iori, asking them to form a team and investigate suspicious activities concerning the Orochi seal.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sacred Team Official Story ~ KOF 2003 |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/kof2003_story/index.php?num=3sacred |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=August 10, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080528193022/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/history/kof2003_story/index.php?num=3sacred |archive-date=May 28, 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> During the investigation, the team is ambushed by the fighter [[Ash Crimson]], who plans to get the power from the descendants of the clans who sealed Orochi and steals the ones from Chizuru.<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Ash:''' Where... is... it... now?/'''Chizuru:''' Ah.. ah.../'''Ash:''' Oh, oh, oh, here we are. With this my objective has come to fruition.|title=The King of Fighters 2003 |developer=SNK Playmore |publisher=SNK Playmore |date=December 12, 2003 |platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref>
In the [[The King of Fighters XI|following video game]], Iori and Kyo form a team with Kyo's student Shingo Yabuki to fill Chizuru's spot to stop Ash.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyo & Iori Team Official Story in KOF XI |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/history/kofxi_story/index.php?num=kyo_iori |website=King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website |access-date=August 3, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081218130024/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/history/kofxi_story/index.php?num=kyo_iori |archive-date=December 18, 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> Thee strengthening presence of Orochi causes Iori to enter the Riot of Blood state, in which he attacks his comrades. Ash appears afterward and defeats Iori, stealing his powers.<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Iori:''' Oooh... I'll kill you... Kyo.../'''Shingo:''' Damn, damn, my body... Must save... Gagh, Mr. K-Kusanagi... He's going to be killed.../'''Ash:''' Well, well, what's going on here? And without any protection, either?/'''Shingo:''' Uh, Ash... Yagami just went crazy all of a sudden./'''Ash:''' Well, well, well. You're in a tough spot, aren't you?/'''Shingo:''' W-watch out. H-he's not like he usually is./'''Iori:''' K... Kill.../'''Ash:''' (So that's the look... Now I see. If he's gotten this far, it can only mean...) Heh, heh. Talk about pressure!/'''Iori:''' Ga, ga, ga, gaaaaah... |title=The King of Fighters XI |developer=SNK Playmore |publisher=SNK Playmore |date=November 13, 2007 |platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Ash:''' Holy moley, you're scary as ever. But that's not how it'll work out. And why? It's because I... am not the same old Ash./'''Elizabeth:''' That color! Iori Yagami's? No, it can't be, can it? The Orochi?!|title=The King of Fighters XI |developer=SNK Playmore |publisher=Ignition Entertainment |date=November 13, 2007 |platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref> Iori is a playable character in ''[[The King of Fighters XII]]'', in which he is featured with a different outfit and a new moveset that does not use purple flames. He does not have a team.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xii/character/index.html| title=『ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズXII』稼動時期が決定！| publisher=Official The King of Fighters XII Homepage| access-date=September 17, 2008| language=ja| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090228190749/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xii/character/index.html| archive-date=February 28, 2009| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> Iori's appearance in ''[[The King of Fighters XIII]]'' sees him teamed with Mature and Vice, his teammates from the 1996 tournament who return as spirits.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/character/index.html | title=CHARACTER THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIII | date=April 22, 2010 | access-date=April 22, 2010 | publisher=SNK Playmore | language=ja | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100428035643/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/character/index.html | archive-date=April 28, 2010 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all}}</ref> Following Ash's disappearance, Iori recovers his flames at the end and appears as downloadable content in this form.<ref>{{cite video game|title=The King of Fighters XIII|developer=SNK Playmore |publisher=Atlus|year=2011|platform=PlayStation 4 |level=Team Yagami's ending}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2012-01-11/the-king-of-fighters-xiii-gets-two-new-dlc-characters/nests-style-kyo-and-mr-karate|title=The King of Fighters XIII Gets Two New DLC Characters: Nests Style Kyo and Mr. Karate|publisher=Anime News Network|date=January 11, 2012|access-date=August 21, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925010311/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2012-01-11/the-king-of-fighters-xiii-gets-two-new-dlc-characters/nests-style-kyo-and-mr-karate|archive-date=September 25, 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> He returns in ''[[The King of Fighters XIV]]'', in which he seals the weakened snake demon with the help of Kyo and Chizuru.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2015-09-16/on-with-the-show/.92999|title=The X Button On With the Show|publisher=Anime News Network|date=September 16, 2015|access-date=September 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917175726/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2015-09-16/on-with-the-show/.92999|archive-date=September 17, 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Iori wears a new costume in the game and his classic one appears as [[downloadable content]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.snk-corp.co.jp/us/games/kof-xiv/news/news06.php|title=DLC Costumes|publisher=SNK|access-date=January 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180127071150/http://www.snk-corp.co.jp/us/games/kof-xiv/news/news06.php|archive-date=January 27, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=The King of Fighters XIV |developer=SNK |publisher=Atlus|year=2016|platform=PlayStation 4 |level=Team Yagami's ending}}</ref>
He appears once more in The ''[[King of Fighters XV]]'', now teamed up with Chizuru Kagura and his rival Kyo Kusanagi.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/22749632/the-king-of-fighters-xv-15-open-beta-dolores-trailer|website=Polygon|title=The King of Fighters 15 introduces all-new character Dolores|first=Owen S.|last=Good|date=October 27, 2021|access-date=October 29, 2021|archive-date=November 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117113456/https://www.polygon.com/22749632/the-king-of-fighters-xv-15-open-beta-dolores-trailer|url-status=live}}</ref> Kagura makes an offer to allow him and Kyo to brawl unsupervised after the tournament, in exchange of teaming up. At the climax of the tournament, Kagura leaves both men to brawl to their hearts content, confident that both men now knows their boundaries.
====Other games====
[[File:MissXSNKHeroines.png|thumb|right|300px|The three looks of Miss X from ''SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy''.]]
In ''The King of Fighters: Kyo'', a [[role-playing video game]] set before the events of ''KOF '97'', Iori appears as Kyo's antagonist in his journey around the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/consumer/psp.php | title=PSP家庭用ソフト：SNKプレイモア ゲーム情報総合サイト NEOGEO WORLD| website= SNK Playmore Official Homepage | access-date=March 26, 2008 | language=ja |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071026051919/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/consumer/psp.php |archive-date = October 26, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |script-title=ja:ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ 京 |url=http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/psn/ac_title/0706-06.html?keepThis=true&TB_iframe=true&height=330&width=560 |website=Playstation.com |access-date=March 26, 2008 |language=ja |title={title} |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081222103843/http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/psn/ac_title/0706-06.html?keepThis=true&TB_iframe=true&height=330&width=560 |archive-date=December 22, 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> Both ''[[King of Fighters R-1]]'' and ''[[King of Fighters R-2]]'' feature the regular Iori and his berserker form as playable characters; the latter game features him as a teamless character.<ref>{{cite video game|title=King of Fighters R-1|developer=SNK|publisher=SNK|date=1998 |platform=Neo Geo Pocket|level=Savior Team Ending}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=King of Fighters R-2|developer=SNK|publisher=SNK|date=1998 |platform=Neo Geo Pocket|level=Edit Team Ending}}</ref> Iori appears in the spin-off video games [[The King of Fighters: Maximum Impact|''Maximum Impact'' series]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snkplaymoreusa.com/game_kof2006.php|title=The King of Fighters: Maximum Impact 2 official website|publisher=[[SNK Playmore]]|access-date=August 8, 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080504022832/http://www.snkplaymoreusa.com/game_kof2006.php |archive-date = May 4, 2008}}</ref> In the North American editions of ''Maximum Impact'', Iori is voiced by Eric Summerer.<ref>{{cite video game|title=The King of Fighters 2006 |developer=SNK Playmore|publisher=SNK Playmore|year=2006 |platform=PlayStation 2|level=Credits}}</ref> Iori appears as a sub-boss in ''The King of Fighters Ex: Neo Blood'', which is set after his fight against Orochi. Although Iori enters the tournament to fight Kyo, [[Geese Howard]], the organizer of the tournament, tries but fails to make him awaken his Riot of the Blood to absorb his powers. In ''[[The King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood]]'', Iori enters another tournament and is joined by two women who want to find a man controlled by the Orochi power.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.atlus.com/kofex2/teams_yagami.html|title=The King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood official website|publisher=[[Atlus]]|access-date=January 16, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090107033125/http://www.atlus.com/kofex2/teams_yagami.html|archive-date=January 7, 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> The shooter game ''KOF: Sky Stage'' also features Iori as a boss, while ''[[Neo Geo Heroes: Ultimate Shooting]]'' makes him playable.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2009-11-04|author=Ciolek, Todd|title=The X Button Strange Days|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=November 4, 2009|access-date=November 4, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091107045214/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2009-11-04|archive-date=November 7, 2009|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://game.snk-corp.co.jp/official/neogeo_heroes/character/iori.html|title=Characters|publisher=SNK|access-date=September 22, 2018|archive-date=September 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923123855/http://game.snk-corp.co.jp/official/neogeo_heroes/character/iori.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He is also featured in ''KOF X Arena Masters'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nexon.co.jp/news/132611|title=【プレスリリース】『Arena Masters（アリーナマスターズ）』が『THE KING OF FIGHTERS』とコラボ！ 京・アテナ・庵がコラボヒーローとなって参戦！|publisher=Nexon|language=ja|access-date=September 13, 2018|archive-date=September 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180913040223/https://www.nexon.co.jp/news/132611|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Game of Dice''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kongbakpao.com/kof-98-characters-visiting-game-of-dice/|title=KOF '98 Characters Visiting Game of Dice!|date=September 12, 2016 |publisher=Kongbakpao|access-date=September 22, 2018|archive-date=September 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923052758/http://kongbakpao.com/kof-98-characters-visiting-game-of-dice/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[The King of Fighters All Star]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://altema.jp/kofallstar/charamatome/12|title=八神庵の全シリーズ評価とスキル一覧|publisher=Altima|language=ja|access-date=September 13, 2018|archive-date=September 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914060727/https://altema.jp/kofallstar/charamatome/12|url-status=live}}</ref> and the Korean fighting game ''The King of Cyphers''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://gnn.gamer.com.tw/1/165931.html|title=拳皇 AR 手機遊戲《拳皇大蛇篇 Go》已達最終開發階段 將展開體驗試玩活動|work=巴哈姆特電玩資訊站|access-date=July 28, 2018|archive-date=July 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180728191345/https://gnn.gamer.com.tw/1/165931.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://dreamcancel.com/2015/03/kyo-and-iori-show-up-in-new-korean-fighting-game-the-king-of-cyphers/|title=KYO AND IORI SHOW UP IN NEW KOREAN FIGHTING GAME "THE KING OF CYPHERS"|publisher=DreamCancel|access-date=September 15, 2018|date=March 30, 2015|archive-date=September 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180916060056/http://dreamcancel.com/2015/03/kyo-and-iori-show-up-in-new-korean-fighting-game-the-king-of-cyphers/|url-status=live}}</ref> SNK also released a [[pachinko]] based on the Orochi storyline.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slot.snk-corp.co.jp/official/kof/index.html|title=The King of Fighters|publisher=SNK|access-date=September 16, 2018|archive-date=September 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917034155/http://slot.snk-corp.co.jp/official/kof/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> as well as the [[otome game]] ''King of Fighters for Girls''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-06-13/snk-victor-entertainment-reveal-king-of-fighters-for-girls-smartphone-game/.147812|title=SNK, Victor Entertainment Reveal 'King of Fighters for Girls' Smartphone Game|publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=June 13, 2019|archive-date=June 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190613170206/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-06-13/snk-victor-entertainment-reveal-king-of-fighters-for-girls-smartphone-game/.147812|url-status=live}}</ref>
Iori also appears in SNK's hand-held game, ''[[SNK Gals' Fighters]]'', as a comical interpretation called {{nihongo|Miss X|ミス X|Misu Ekkusu}}. The character insists he is a female in order to participate in the game's ''Queen of Fighters'' tournament, though several female fighters easily see through his disguise.<ref>{{cite video game|title=SNK Gals' Fighters |developer=Yumekobo |publisher=SNK of America |date=February 19, 2000 |platform=Neo Geo Pocket Color|quote='''Yuki:''' It's wish time! This Talisman will turn you into Ms. X forever.../'''Miss X:''' Argh! You're a sneaky tart!/'''Yuki:''' Tart? You asked for it! O, Talisman.../'''Miss X:''' Ah! Wait! I take it back! Curses...}}</ref> He is also present in ''[[The Rhythm of Fighters]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.androidcentral.com/rhythm-fighters-review|title=The Rhythm of Fighters review|website=AndroidCentral|access-date=September 22, 2018|date=July 28, 2014|archive-date=September 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923123840/https://www.androidcentral.com/rhythm-fighters-review|url-status=live}}</ref> Miss X reappears in the fighting game ''[[SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy]]'' as downloadable content, this time sharing both the original crossdresser and new true gender swapped form.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2018/10/25/missx-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-debut-will-occur-on-november-15-2018/|title=MissX SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy Debut Will Occur On November 15, 2018|date=October 25, 2018|access-date=October 25, 2018|publisher=Siliconera|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025185458/http://www.siliconera.com/2018/10/25/missx-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-debut-will-occur-on-november-15-2018/|url-status=live}}</ref> In the story, Miss X fights against multiple female fighters (including his fellow gender-swapped fighters [[Terry Bogard]] and the guest fighter [[Skullomania]]) to stop the host Kukri and his ending involves an embarrassing nightmare in which he and Kyo become friendly rivals.<ref>{{cite video game|title=SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy|developer=SNK Playmore |publisher=SNK|year=2018|platform=PlayStation 4 |stage=Miss X's ending}}</ref> In the crossover video games ''[[NeoGeo Battle Coliseum]]'' and ''[[SNK vs. Capcom]]'' series, Iori appears as a playable character; the latter includes his Riot of the Blood state.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ignitionent.com/ngbc/main.htm |title=Neo Geo Battle Coliseum official website |publisher=[[SNK Playmore]] |access-date=August 8, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061104041918/http://www.ignitionent.com/ngbc/main.htm |archive-date=November 4, 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/newproducts/consumer/cvss2/ |title=Capcom VS. SNK official website |publisher=[[Capcom]] |access-date=August 8, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080808101118/http://www.capcom.co.jp/newproducts/consumer/cvss2/ |archive-date=August 8, 2008}}</ref> His character is also a boss character (along with Geese) in the Game Boy version from ''[[Real Bout Fatal Fury Special]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gameboy/action/nettourealboutgarouds/hints.html?tag=tabs;cheats|title=Nettou Real Bout Garou Densetsu Special Hints & Cheats|website=[[GameSpot]]|access-date=April 15, 2009}}</ref> He also appears in [[Square Enix]]'s fighting game ''[[Million Arthur: Arcana Blood]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-08-26/million-arthur-arcana-blood-arcade-game-gets-ps4-release-on-november-29/.135931|title=Million Arthur: Arcana Blood Arcade Game Gets PS4 Release on November 29|website=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=August 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826075718/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-08-26/million-arthur-arcana-blood-arcade-game-gets-ps4-release-on-november-29/.135931|archive-date=August 26, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> He is also available in the ''King Fighters X Fatal Fury'' mobile phone game.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/28/king-of-fighters-x-fatal-fury-heats-up-at-snk-playmore/|title=King of Fighters X Fatal Fury Heats Up At SNK Playmore|date=April 28, 2013|publisher=Siliconera|access-date=September 11, 2018|archive-date=September 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180912060112/http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/28/king-of-fighters-x-fatal-fury-heats-up-at-snk-playmore/|url-status=live}}</ref> He is also present in the Chinese mobile phone game named ''KOF: WORLD'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kof.sdo.com:80/web1/about/about_03.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110512094018/http://kof.sdo.com/web1/about/about_03.asp|title=About|publisher=KOF SDO|access-date=September 5, 2018|archive-date=May 12, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> the [[visual novel]] ''Days of Memories'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://game.snk-corp.co.jp/official/dom/dom2/series1/|title=Days of Memories|publisher=SNK|language=ja|access-date=September 13, 2018|archive-date=February 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180215025952/http://game.snk-corp.co.jp/official/dom/dom2/series1/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Metal Slug Defense'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://store.steampowered.com/app/361470/METAL_SLUG_DEFENSE__KOF_Pack_Vol1/?l=tchinese|title=METAL SLUG DEFENSE - "KOF Pack" Vol.1|publisher=Steam|language=ja|access-date=September 13, 2018|archive-date=September 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914022846/https://store.steampowered.com/app/361470/METAL_SLUG_DEFENSE__KOF_Pack_Vol1/?l=tchinese|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Lords of Vermillion'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www30.atwiki.jp/lord_of_vermilion/pages/1009.html|title=ロードオブヴァーミリオン【LORD of VERMILION】|publisher=Atwiki|access-date=September 13, 2018|archive-date=March 8, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308215449/https://w.atwiki.jp/lord_of_vermilion/pages/1009.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''Lucent Heart''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lh.gamania.co.jp/landing/colabo/kof/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100620000101/http://lh.gamania.co.jp/landing/colabo/kof/|title=Update|publisher=Lucent Heart|access-date=November 8, 2018|archive-date=June 20, 2010}}</ref> The character's original look is also being used in [[action role-playing]] ''[[Phantasy Star Online 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/2019/02/22/kyo-iori-athena-mai-and-leona-join-phantasy-star-online-2-as-new-costumes/|publisher=Siliconera|access-date=February 22, 2019|title=Kyo, Iori, Athena, Mai, And Leona Join Phantasy Star Online 2 As New Costumes|date=February 22, 2019|archive-date=February 22, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190222225145/https://www.siliconera.com/2019/02/22/kyo-iori-athena-mai-and-leona-join-phantasy-star-online-2-as-new-costumes/|url-status=live}}</ref>
Additionally, Iori Yagami made his appearance as playable guest character in ''War Song'', a [[multiplayer online battle arena]] developed by Morefun Studio, a game studio owned by [[Tencent]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-01-23|title=War Song officially launches for Android and iOS in Japan|url=https://www.gamerbraves.com/war-song-officially-launches-for-android-and-ios-in-japan/|access-date=2020-09-20|website=GamerBraves|language=en-US|archive-date=April 8, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408075308/https://www.gamerbraves.com/war-song-officially-launches-for-android-and-ios-in-japan/|url-status=live}}</ref> Iori also appears as one of the background characters on the King of Fighters Stadium stage in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. In addition a costume based on him for the Mii Brawler appears as downloadable content.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/2019/11/06/iori-nakoruru-ryo-akira-and-jacky-bryant-join-super-smash-bros-ultimates-mii-costumes/|title=Iori, Nakoruru, Ryo, Akira, And Jacky Bryant Join Super Smash Bros. Ultimate's Mii Costumes|date=November 6, 2019|publisher=Siliconera|access-date=November 6, 2019|archive-date=November 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106214321/https://www.siliconera.com/2019/11/06/iori-nakoruru-ryo-akira-and-jacky-bryant-join-super-smash-bros-ultimates-mii-costumes/|url-status=live}}</ref>
===In other media===
[[File:Will Yun Lee 01 (9511927429).jpg|thumb|Will Yun Lee portrayed Iori in ''The King of Fighters'' live-action movie.]]
Aside from the ''King of Fighters'' series, the character is featured in an [[audio drama]]<ref>{{cite AV media notes | author= SNK | year=1999| title=Iori Yagami Original Drama -Sun and Moon- ~ Prologue| publisher=Pony Canyon Inc. | id=PCCB-00380}}</ref> and a character [[image album]].<ref>{{cite AV media notes | author= SNK | year=1999| title=SNK Character Sounds Collection Volume 11 ~ Iori Yagami| publisher=Pony Canyon Inc. | id=PCCB-00378}}</ref> In the anime ''[[The King of Fighters: Another Day]]'', Iori searches for Ash to regain his powers.<ref>{{cite video game|title=KOF Maximum Impact 2 |developer=SNK Playmore|publisher=SNK Playmore|date=April 27, 2006 |platform=PlayStation 2|level=The King of Fighters: Another Day}}</ref> Iori appears in the spin-off [[manga]] story entitled ''The King of Fighters: Kyo'', which is based on his adventure prior to ''[[The King of Fighters '96]]''.<ref>{{cite book |last=Natsumoto|first=Masato |title=The King of Fighters Kyo, volume 1|year=1996 |publisher=Kodansha|isbn=978-4-06-319759-4}}</ref> Ryo Takamisaki's manga ''The King of Fighters G'' shows an alternative retelling of ''KOF '96'' in which Iori faces Kyo and Athena Asamiya.<ref>{{cite book |last=Takamisaki |first=Ryo|title=ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズG|year=1997 |publisher=Shinsenga|isbn=978-4881993507|volume=1}}</ref> The character appears in a [[manhua]] adaptation of ''The King of Fighters: Zillion'' created by [[Andy Seto]] that retells Iori's story of his fight against Orochi until he attacks NESTS to destroy Kyo's clones. He also stars in other manhua for the games, starting with ''The King of Fighters 2001'' and ending with ''2003'' along with the ''Maximum Impact'' series.<ref name=kofanivmanhua>{{cite web |url=http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/comment/remember_kof.php?num=6| title=Remembrances of KOF: An Interview with Eiji |publisher= King of Fighters 10th Anniversary Official Website | access-date=July 28, 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080418040418/http://kofaniv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/comment/remember_kof.php?num=6 |archive-date = April 18, 2008}}</ref> In the manga ''The King of Fighters: A New Beginning'', Vice and Mature force the Orochi power to make Iori lose his mind during his battle with Kyo. The battle ends in a draw with Iori's team losing due to the other fighters' rounds.<ref>{{cite book|title=The King of Fighters: A New Beginning|year=2018|volume=1|publisher=[[Kodansha]]|author=Asuma, Kyōtarō|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=The King of Fighters: A New Beginning|year=2019|volume=2|publisher=[[Kodansha]]|isbn=978-4757205970|author=Asuma, Kyōtarō|language=ja}}</ref>
Iori is played by [[Will Yun Lee]] in the film ''[[The King of Fighters (film)|The King of Fighters]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/5286754/king-of-fighters-movie-promotional-images |title=King of Fighters Movie Promotional Images |publisher=[[Kotaku]] |author=Ashcraft, Brian |date=July 11, 2009 |access-date=August 16, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815031856/http://kotaku.com/5286754/king-of-fighters-movie-promotional-images |archive-date=August 15, 2009 |url-status=live}}</ref> In the CGI series ''[[The King of Fighters: Destiny]]'' Iori makes a brief appearance in the first season's finale, in which he tries to play music but starts going berserk.<ref>{{cite AV media|title=The King of Fighters: Destiny|number=24 |work=iDRAGONS Creative Studio, SNK}}</ref> He is one of two protagonists alongside Kyo in online gag manga ''Part Time Stories: Kyo & Iori'' by [[Falcoon]]; the two title characters work together to promote SNK's merchandising.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.snk-onlineshop.com/parttimestories/|title=Part Time Stories: Kyo & Iori|publisher=SNK|language=ja|access-date=February 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204000245/https://www.snk-onlineshop.com/parttimestories/|archive-date=February 4, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> He is also featured in the manga ''The King of Fighters: A New Beginning''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://natalie.mu/comic/news/263400|title=格闘ゲーム「KOF」人気キャラ総出演のコミカライズがマガポケで始動|publisher=Natalie|language=ja|access-date=January 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180114073634/https://natalie.mu/comic/news/263400|archive-date=January 14, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> Iori is also present in novels based on the series.<ref>{{cite book|title=ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ2000—STRIKERS STRIKE BACK|year=2001|isbn=978-4757703483|publisher=Enterbrain |author=Ureshino, Akihiko|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ'99—BEYOND THE"K"|year=1999|publisher=[[SNK]]|isbn=978-4757205970 |author=Ureshino, Aikhiko|trans-title=The King of Fighters '99 ～BEYOND THE "K"|language=ja}}</ref> He is also set to be the protagonist of the light novel series ''Iori Yagami's Isekai Mu'sou'' by Nobuhiko Tenkawa which depicts him in an alternate universe fighting goblins.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kadokawa.co.jp/product/321903000741/|title=THE KING OF FANTASY 八神庵の異世界無双 月を見るたび思い出せ！|work=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=May 24, 2019|archive-date=May 24, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190524023513/https://www.kadokawa.co.jp/product/321903000741/|url-status=live}}</ref>
==Reception==
===Critical response===
The character Iori Yagami was mostly well received by several video game publications and other media. He is ranked in the top-ten fighting games from ''[[GameTrailers]]'' and has been called one of the series' innovative characters from his introduction in ''[[The King of Fighters '95]]'' and during his development in the following games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/player/47398.html|title=Top 10 Fighting Games|date=April 6, 2009|publisher=[[GameTrailers]]|access-date=April 6, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090408070007/http://www.gametrailers.com/player/47398.html|archive-date=April 8, 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Den of Geek]]'' same site also listed him as the fourth best ''King of Fighters'' characters based on his moves, rivalry with Kyo as well as apparent character arc based on how he retakes his lost powers in ''KOF XIII'' and used them in ''KOF XIV'' to once again seal Orochi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/king-of-fighters/258397/king-of-fighters-ranking-all-the-characters/page/0/5|title=King of Fighters: Ranking All the Characters|date=November 14, 2016|publisher=Den of Geek|access-date=July 31, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731191855/http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/king-of-fighters/258397/king-of-fighters-ranking-all-the-characters/page/0/5|archive-date=July 31, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Sohu commented Kyo Kusanagi is more suitable to be the heir of the blood of the Orochi, Iori Yagami overshadows him due to his origins. Kyo and Iori's introduction was highly popular to the point Japanese gamers spread rumors they might be brother due to their connection to the myth of Orochi though Chinese comic created bizarre plots involving them. Despite the comics portraying Kyo and Iori's deadly enemies, the video game introductions did not go that far and instead used to tease their continuous competitiveness highly lampshaded by how they stare at each other while creating different colored flames. Therefore, Iori Yagami and Kyo Kusanagi still get along very harmoniously in occasions that do not involve "Orochi" but still have misrelationship.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sohu.com/a/700583003_492137|title=街机游戏《拳皇95》为何被奉为经典？因为诞生了八神庵的一堆谣言|website=Sohu|access-date=June 9, 2024}}</ref> Shivam Bhatt on ''[[Retronauts]]''{{'}}s said that fighting games were often going to have the "beautiful man" type of character and Iori's design evokes this trope being also compared with ''[[Street Fighter III]]''{{'}}s [[Remy (Street Fighter)|Remy]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://retronauts.com/article/1885/retronauts-episode-458-street-fighter-iii |first=Diamond |last=Feit |website=[[Retronauts]] |title=Retronauts Episode 458: Street Fighter III |date=2022-05-30 |accessdate=2025-05-27 |time=2:16:00 |format=MP3}} [https://web.archive.org/web/20220530205724/https://traffic.libsyn.com/retronauts/598_Retronauts_Episode_458__Street_Fighter_III_1.mp3 MP3 archive]</ref> ''Retronaut'' claimed that Kyo and Iori being removed from ''The King of Fighters '99'' was shocking upon release saying it would be the same as if the iconic [[Ryu (Street Fighter)|Ryu]] and [[Ken Masters]] were removed from ''Street Fighter'' which led to their eventual return as hidden due to negative feedback.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://retronauts.com/article/1322/pre-millennium-tussle-the-king-of-fighters-99-at-20|website=Retronaut|access-date=May 18, 2025|title=Pre-millennium tussle: The King of Fighters '99 at 20|author=Feit, Diamond|date=September 23, 2019}}</ref> Manga author Ami Shibata expressed having taken a liking to Iori Yagami when playing ''The King of Fighters '95'' during his youth, often doing illustations of Iori to be sent to ''Gamest'' magazine until its inclusion much to his surprise.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://futaman.futabanet.jp/articles/-/81575?page=1|title=柴田亜美『KOF』八神庵を落書き『ゲーメスト』ファンからも「懐かしい！」の声|access-date=July 22, 2025|language=Japanese|work=Futaman Futabanet}}</ref>
Kevin S. from ''[[GameRevolution]]'' liked the interactions between Kyo and Iori in ''The King of Fighters XIV'' because it was one of the most famous parts from the series further helped by unique music.<ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/the-king-of-fighters-xiv|title=The King of Fighters XIV Review|author=S., Kevin |publisher=[[GameRevolution]] |date=August 23, 2016 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20160823182901/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/the-king-of-fighters-xiv |archive-date= August 23, 2016 |access-date= April 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://royalflushmagazine.com/gaming/review-kof-xiv/#.W6buzHtKiUk|title=Review: King of Fighters XIV (KOF XIV)|work=Royal Flush Magazine |date=August 24, 2016 |publisher=RoyalFlush Magazine|access-date=September 22, 2018|archive-date=February 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180226082724/http://royalflushmagazine.com/gaming/review-kof-xiv/#.W6buzHtKiUk|url-status=live |last1=Double-Jump |first1=Chris -. }}</ref> ''[[The Daily Star (Bangladesh)|The Daily Star]]'' noted Kyo's and Iori's popularity comes from the way Kyo and Iori start facing each other as enemies but still become allies for other games.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thedailystar.net/shout/overclock/king-fighters-legacy-1376431|title=King of Fighters XIV|date=March 16, 2017|website=The Daily Star|access-date=September 22, 2018|archive-date=September 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180927160640/https://www.thedailystar.net/shout/overclock/king-fighters-legacy-1376431|url-status=live}}</ref> The formation of the Three Sacred Treasures Team in ''The King of Fighters '96'' had a major impact with fans because it was appealing because of the Orochi saga and because of its incorporation of Japanese mythology.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://atomix.vg/feature-the-king-of-fighters-96-retro-review/|title=FEATURE – THE KING OF FIGHTERS 96 (RETRO REVIEW)|publisher=Atomix|access-date=November 1, 2018|language=es|date=August 26, 2016|archive-date=November 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181112101456/https://atomix.vg/feature-the-king-of-fighters-96-retro-review/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://4thletter.net/2013/07/the-top-200-fighting-game-endings-part-ten/|title=The Top 200 Fighting Game Endings: Part Ten|publisher=4thletter|access-date=April 19, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160125062206/http://4thletter.net/2013/07/the-top-200-fighting-game-endings-part-ten/|archive-date=January 25, 2016}}</ref> ''Den of Geek'' noted that while Iori started as "anti-hero" due to his tendency to beat up his own teammates in his first two games, he would join forces Kyo for a greater good in upcoming titles which changed the way he was seen. However, the fact that Iori is defeated by Ash in ''KOF XI'' was noted to be the opposite due to how much it affected him to the point of creating a new fighting style that does not involve flames.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/king-of-fighters/255602/king-of-fighters-xiv-team-yagami-trailer|title=King of Fighters XIV: Team Yagami Trailer|date=May 21, 2016|publisher=Den of Geek|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=October 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001220535/http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/king-of-fighters/255602/king-of-fighters-xiv-team-yagami-trailer|url-status=live}}</ref> According to Atomix, the berserker Iori is nicknamed "Crazy Iori" in Mexico where the franchise is highly popular. Meanwhile, the Japanese have a tendency to call him "Buso Iori".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://atomix.vg/el-glosario-de-the-king-of-fighters/#google_vignette|title=El Glosario de The King of Fighters|website=Atomix|date=August 22, 2016 |access-date=November 29, 2024}}</ref>
Across the franchise, Iori has been given new looks and techniques which have also resulted in different kind of responses. In the book ''Gaming Cultures and Place in Asia-Pacific'', Iori was regarded as one of the most popular video game characters in Hong Kong from the mid 1990s onward alongside Kyo, Mai and others, to the point of overshadowing the ''Street Fighter'' characters, which were also well-known.<ref>{{cite book|title=Gaming Cultures and Place in Asia-Pacific|isbn=978-0415996273|author1=Hjorth, Larissa |author2=Chan, Dean |publisher=Routledge|year=2009|page=87|chapter=Consuming and Localizing Japanese Combat Games in Hong Kong}}</ref> The character's new design from ''[[The King of Fighters XII]]'' has been well received by ''[[GameSpot]]''{{'}}s writer Andrew Park who found such moves interesting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3174300&p=37|access-date=May 10, 2016|author=Park, Andrew|date=July 31, 2009|website=[[GameSpot]]|title=The King of Fighters XII is the latest chapter in 15 years of fighting game history. It's also a disappointment.|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160602134434/http://www.1up.com/reviews/king-fighters-12-review|archive-date=June 2, 2016}}</ref> Todd Ciolek from ''[[Anime News Network]]'' found Iori's appearance in ''KOF XIV'' dated.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2015-12-10/expert-ease/.96324|title=The X Button Expert Ease|author=Ciolek, Todd|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=December 12, 2015|access-date=April 14, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170623202947/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2015-12-10/expert-ease/.96324|archive-date=June 23, 2017}}</ref> In response to the negative feedback involving the design, artist [[Hiroaki Hashimoto]] said that while Kyo's and Iori's original designs in the Orochi arc were so appealing, it was hard for SNK to keep coming up with quality with ''XIV''.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Hiroaki Hashimoto|user=SUPER_HIROAKI|number=1300640142332317696|title=ありがとうございます。虎煌拳が飛ばないのが気になりそうだったので、道着の色は絶対変えようと思ってたのですが、白か黒で迷いました。リョウの顔が映える黒にして正解だったと思います。access-date=October 24, 2024}}</ref> Den of Geek praised Iori's Orochi form for being far more violent than his already deadly persona.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-20-best-altered-fighting-game-characters/|title=The 20 Best Altered Fighting Game Characters|website=Den of Geek|access-date=August 11, 2024|date=May 31, 2017|author=Jasper, Gavin}}</ref> On the other hand, ''[[1UP.com]]'' writer Richard Li; Li complained about the lack of Iori's signature moves such as his fireballs, and while some of them remained, Li noted that they now require a different input from the ones they normally require.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3174300&p=37 |access-date=May 25, 2009 |author=Li, Richard |date=May 20, 2009 |publisher=[[1UP.com]] |title=1UP.com: The King of Fighters XII (PS3) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160602134434/http://www.1up.com/reviews/king-fighters-12-review |archive-date=June 2, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The Orochi form from Iori was listed as the sixth best altered video game character alongside Leona's based on the impact both have on the storyline by ''Den of Geek''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/fighting-games/265246/the-20-best-altered-fighting-game-characters|title=The 20 Best Altered Fighting Game Characters|date=May 31, 2017|publisher=Den of Geek|access-date=June 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706031040/http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/fighting-games/265246/the-20-best-altered-fighting-game-characters|archive-date=July 6, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Meanwhile, Iori's return to his classic techniques in ''KOF XIV'' mainly using flames were celebrated by ''[[Hobby Consolas]]'' because of their popularity with fans.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hobbyconsolas.com/reviews/king-fighters-xiv-analisis-65028|title=The King Of Fighters XIV - Análisis|publisher=Hobby Consolas|access-date=February 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180205040743/https://www.hobbyconsolas.com/reviews/king-fighters-xiv-analisis-65028|archive-date=February 5, 2018|url-status=live|date=August 22, 2016}}</ref> Atinux agreed, calling the character "sadistic" because of the violence of his attacks, most notably seen in his strongest moves that reference his enhanced Orochi form from previous games.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://atomix.vg/el-buen-iori-loco-y-su-equipo-se-presentan-en-the-king-of-fighters-xiv/|title=EL BUEN IORI (LOCO) Y SU EQUIPO SE PRESENTAN EN THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV|publisher=Atomix|access-date=October 30, 2018|date=May 19, 2016|archive-date=October 31, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031133007/https://atomix.vg/el-buen-iori-loco-y-su-equipo-se-presentan-en-the-king-of-fighters-xiv/|url-status=live}}</ref>
Journalists have also commented on Iori's appearances outside the ''KOF'' games. Iori's crossdressing persona Miss X has been popular; SNK stated they received multiple requests to add him into the crossover game ''[[SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy]]'', an upcoming fighting game focused on female characters.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://gematsu.com/2018/03/interview-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-yasuyuki-oda-kaito-soranaka-nis-america-staff|title=Interview: SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy's Yasuyuki Oda, Kaito Soranaka, and NIS America staff|publisher=Gematsu|access-date=March 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306082856/https://gematsu.com/2018/03/interview-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-yasuyuki-oda-kaito-soranaka-nis-america-staff|archive-date=March 6, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Destructoid]]'' stated he was shocked by Miss X's debut in ''SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy'' because of Iori's obvious secret identity and because she has different incarnations with a different gender and outfit.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/miss-x-sizzles-in-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-528588.phtml|title=Miss X sizzles in SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy|date=October 26, 2018|publisher=Destructoid|access-date=October 30, 2018|archive-date=November 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181129143322/https://www.destructoid.com/miss-x-sizzles-in-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-528588.phtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Atomix shared similar feelings but refrained from revealing the character's true identity.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://atomix.vg/la-tercera-peleadora-dlc-de-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-es-iori-yagami/|title=LA TERCERA PELEADORA DLC DE SNK HEROINES: TAG TEAM FRENZY ES... ¡IORI YAGAMI!|publisher=Atomix|access-date=October 30, 2018|date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 31, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031052611/https://atomix.vg/la-tercera-peleadora-dlc-de-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-es-iori-yagami/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Universo Nintendo'' originally thought the DLC character would be an alternative version of Ash Crimson and was surprised by the revelation. The website said Miss X's second form is possibly the most humiliating version because the character is wearing a t-shirt of his rival Kyo. Nevertheless, the character's movements were thought to be similar to those of the original Iori and thus long-time gamers would easily play as Miss X.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://universo-nintendo.com.mx/2018/10/25/iori-yagami-snk-heroines-para-nintendo-switch/|title=Iori Yagami... Perdón, Miss X Llegará A SNK Heroines Para Nintendo Switch|publisher=Universo Nintendo|access-date=October 30, 2018|date=October 26, 2018|archive-date=October 31, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031133001/http://universo-nintendo.com.mx/2018/10/25/iori-yagami-snk-heroines-para-nintendo-switch/|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Popularity===
Merchandising based on Iori, including figurines, key-chains and puzzles, has been released.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0009PLEHO|title=Capcom vs SNK2 - Action Figures Series 1: Iori|language=ja|access-date=August 17, 2008|archive-date=March 8, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308215404/https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0009PLEHO|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V98GBK|title=Capcom vs Snk : King of Fighters Iori 3D 2"-3" Action Figure Key Chain|website=Amazon|access-date=August 17, 2008|archive-date=March 8, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308215312/https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V98GBK|url-status=live}}</ref> Two scale figures based on Iori's original form and his ''XIV'' look have also been released.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2018/08/16/the-king-of-fighters-gantaku-scale-figures-shown-off-at-taipeis-2018-comic-exhibition/|title=The King Of Fighters Gantaku Scale Figures Shown Off At Taipei's 2018 Comic Exhibition|date=August 16, 2018|publisher=Siliconera|access-date=September 21, 2018|archive-date=September 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921230341/http://www.siliconera.com/2018/08/16/the-king-of-fighters-gantaku-scale-figures-shown-off-at-taipeis-2018-comic-exhibition/|url-status=live}}</ref> A replica of his ''KOF XIV'' coat was produced for merchandising.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.celebsmoviejackets.com/iori-yagami-kof-xiv-coat|title=King of Fighters XIV Iori Yagami Coat|publisher=Celebsmoviejackets|access-date=October 30, 2018|archive-date=March 8, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308215408/https://www.celebsmoviejackets.com/iori-yagami-kof-xiv-coat|url-status=live}}</ref>
To choose the cover for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 ports of ''KOF XII'', [[Ignition Entertainment]] started a survey on May 4, 2009, in which users of their forum could vote for one of two covers they wanted to see in the game. While both covers feature multiple characters, one uses Kyo in the center and the other Iori.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=635|title=Rock the Box: Vote for your favorite King of Fighters XII Xbox 360 box art!|publisher=[[Ignition Entertainment]]|access-date=May 4, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810172051/http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=635|archive-date=August 10, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=636|title=Rock the Box: Vote for your favorite King of Fighters XII PlayStation 3 box art!|publisher=[[Ignition Entertainment]]|access-date=May 4, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090509074915/http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=636|archive-date=May 9, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> When the two surveys ended, Ignition started two new ones that asked people to vote between the previous winners and the Japanese covers from the game for both consoles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=727|title=Rock the Box Round 2: Vote for your favorite King of Fighters XII Xbox 360 box art!|publisher=[[Ignition Entertainment]]|access-date=May 20, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090523084950/http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=727|archive-date=May 23, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=726|title=Rock the Box Round 2: Vote for your favorite King of Fighters XII PS3 box art!|publisher=[[Ignition Entertainment]]|access-date=May 20, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090523084932/http://forums.ignitionusa.net/showthread.php?t=726|archive-date=May 23, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> In late 2018, Iori and other SNK characters appeared as part of collaborations with other companies in [[Harajuku]], Japan, involving new merchandising. Iori's image was made by Falcoon.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000179.000028651.html|title=11月23日（金・祝）からキデイランド原宿店にて『SNK×キデイランド原宿～Kawaii Holiday♪～』を開催決定！|date=November 12, 2018 |publisher=Pr Times|language=ja|access-date=November 14, 2018|archive-date=November 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181115030828/https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000179.000028651.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Game designer [[Masahiro Sakurai]] was amazed when first seeing Iori in ''The King of Fighters '95'' due to his attitude and moves which made him praise the designers.<ref name="smash">{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yK3VltKv3JI&t=2405s |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/yK3VltKv3JI |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Mr. Sakurai Presents "Terry Bogard"|publisher=Youtube|work=Nintendo|date=November 6, 2019 |access-date=November 6, 2019}}{{cbignore}}</ref> In November 2024, Tanita made an official collaboration with SNK which involved merchandising and studying the bodies of Iori among other characters from the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.mynavi.jp/article/20241107-3060372/|title=タニタとSNKがコラボ！ 『KOF '98』をプレイできる体組成計を220万円で販売|website=News MyNavi|language=Japanese|access-date=July 11, 2024}}</ref>
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Yagami, Iori}}
==External links==
* {{wikiquote inline}}
* {{Commons category-inline|}}
{{King of Fighters games}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Yagami, Iori}}
[[Category:Action film characters]]
[[Category:Fictional Japanese people in video games]]
[[Category:Fictional rock musicians]]
[[Category:Male characters in video games]]
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[[Category:The King of Fighters characters]]
[[Category:Video game bosses]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 1995]]
[[Category:Video game characters with fire or heat abilities]]
[[Category:Fictional cross-dressers]]
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