This game is the BOMB! Part of my childhood nostalgia in fact, I would alway play it on an Arcade machine when I would go to Tlalcosahua, Jalisco, Mexico. Whenever I remember this game, it definitely brings back some memories. And the A.I. in this game is actually VERY impressive! (For a 1997 Arcade game) They put up a GOOD fight! The main story is pretty lengthy(make sure you bring plenty of spar change if you plan on finishing the whole game), and even the Battle mode takes some time to complete!
You slowly progress against one A.I. (Best of 3) then next round you have another computer in the ring, then another. After that, you still have to play on the other 4 or 5 maps. Remember, don't underestimate the A.I. they can easily trap you between some bombs and a wall.
I would always have a BLAST playing against my brother or one of my cousins.
Definitely one of the best Arcade games out there - to date!
TIP: Don't spam your bombs around. Try to strategically place them where they put you in the least danger possible. If you spam, you are likely to get killed by your own bomb. Also, depending on the 'range' of your bomb (increased by the smiling fire/golden fire), even though you might be a good distance away from your bomb, don't take the risk and instead hide behind a rock or a wall if you're in line of sight of a bomb.