While there isn't a story mode, the game features a few narrative-adjacent elements:
Even though it's a "Dream Match," the game uses the character designs and teams established during the NESTS saga (KOF '99–2001). KOF 2002 ACA NEOGEO
Unlike many entries in the series, (and its ACA NEOGEO port) does not actually have a formal story. While there isn't a story mode, the game