Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage (1998)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage: A Detailed Retrospective

Introduction

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage is a 3D fighting game released by SNK in 1998 for the Hyper Neo Geo 64 system. It is the sixth installment in the Samurai Shodown series and the eighth in the official chronology. The game is the sequel to the original Samurai Shodown 64 and received relatively limited distribution outside of Japan.

Gameplay

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage retains the core gameplay mechanics of the previous Samurai Shodown games, but with several notable additions and refinements. The game features a roster of 16 characters, each with their own unique fighting styles and special moves. The game’s combat system is based on a combination of light, medium, and heavy attacks, as well as throws and special moves.

One of the most significant changes in Warriors Rage is the addition of a new “Rage” system. When a character’s health is low, they can enter a “Rage” state, which grants them increased attack power and speed. However, the Rage state also makes the character more vulnerable to damage.

Another new feature in Warriors Rage is the ability to create custom characters. Players can choose from a variety of body types, hairstyles, and clothing options to create their own unique fighter. Custom characters can also be used in the game’s single-player and multiplayer modes.

Story

Warriors Rage takes place several years after the events of the previous Samurai Shodown games. The evil warlord Mizuki Rashojin has returned from the dead and is once again threatening to conquer the world. A group of warriors, led by the swordsman Haohmaru, must band together to stop Rashojin and his evil forces.

Characters

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage features a roster of 16 characters, including both returning favorites and new additions to the series. Here is a brief overview of each character:

  • Haohmaru: The protagonist of the series, Haohmaru is a wandering swordsman with a strong sense of justice.
  • Nakoruru: A young Ainu woman who fights with a bow and arrow.
  • Ukyo Tachibana: A skilled swordsman who is known for his speed and agility.
  • Galford: An American gunslinger who uses a variety of weapons in combat.
  • Earthquake: A large and powerful wrestler who uses his strength to overwhelm his opponents.
  • Jubei Yagyu: A master swordsman who is known for his precision and technique.
  • Shizumaru Hisame: A young ninja who fights with a variety of weapons and techniques.
  • Hanzo Hattori: A skilled ninja who is known for his stealth and agility.
  • Rimururu: A young woman who fights with a naginata.
  • Kyoshiro Senryo: A swordsman who is known for his speed and agility.
  • Genjuro Kibagami: A skilled swordsman who is known for his strength and power.
  • Cham Cham: A young woman who fights with a variety of weapons and techniques.
  • Mina Majikina: A young woman who fights with a variety of magical spells.
  • Gaira Caffeine: A large and powerful wrestler who uses his strength to overwhelm his opponents.
  • Mizuki Rashojin: The main antagonist of the game, Rashojin is an evil warlord who is seeking to conquer the world.
  • Yuga the Destroyer: A powerful demon who serves as Rashojin’s right-hand man.

Graphics and Sound

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage is one of the most visually impressive games on the Hyper Neo Geo 64 system. The game’s 3D graphics are smooth and detailed, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s backgrounds are also very impressive, and they help to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion.

The game’s sound is also top-notch. The music is catchy and exciting, and the sound effects are realistic and impactful. The voice acting is also very good, and it helps to bring the characters to life.

Reception

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage received positive reviews from critics upon release. The game was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. However, the game’s limited distribution outside of Japan prevented it from achieving the same level of success as some of the other games in the Samurai Shodown series.

Legacy

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage is considered to be one of the best 3D fighting games of its era. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay were all highly praised, and it helped to push the boundaries of what was possible on the Hyper Neo Geo 64 system.

While Warriors Rage did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of the other games in the Samurai Shodown series, it remains a cult classic among fans of fighting games. The game’s unique gameplay mechanics and impressive graphics make it a worthwhile experience for any fan of the genre.

Conclusion

Samurai Shodown 64: Warriors Rage is a solid 3D fighting game that offers a unique and exciting experience. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it features a roster of memorable characters. While the game’s limited distribution outside of Japan prevented it from achieving the same level of success as some of the other games in the Samurai Shodown series, it remains a cult classic among fans of fighting games.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.

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