Samurai Shodown II (1994)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Samurai Shodown II (1994) Review

Samurai Shodown II is a weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK. It was originally released in arcades in 1994, and was later ported to the Neo Geo home console. The game is the second installment in the Samurai Shodown series, and is known for its fast-paced gameplay, unique art style, and memorable cast of characters.

Gameplay

Samurai Shodown II is a 2D fighting game in which players take control of one of 15 different characters and battle against each other in one-on-one duels. The game’s combat system is unique in that it focuses on the use of weapons, rather than fists and feet. Each character has their own unique weapon and fighting style, which gives the game a great deal of variety.

The game’s controls are relatively simple, with players using the joystick to move their character and the buttons to attack and defend. However, the game’s timing and spacing are very important, and players must learn to master these elements in order to succeed.

Samurai Shodown II is a very fast-paced game, and players must be constantly on their toes in order to avoid being hit by their opponent’s attacks. The game also features a unique “Rage” system, which allows players to power up their attacks by taking damage. This system adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players must decide whether to risk taking damage in order to gain a temporary advantage.

Characters

Samurai Shodown II features a cast of 15 different characters, each with their own unique weapon and fighting style. The characters include a variety of different nationalities and backgrounds, including Japanese samurai, Chinese swordsmen, and Native American warriors.

Some of the most popular characters in the game include:

  • Haohmaru: A wandering samurai and the protagonist of the series. He is a skilled swordsman and a master of the “Haohmaru-ryu” style of swordsmanship.
  • Nakoruru: A young Ainu warrior who fights with a bow and arrow. She is a skilled archer and is also able to summon her pet hawk, Mamahaha, to aid her in battle.
  • Ukyo Tachibana: A skilled swordsman who fights with a kodachi, a short Japanese sword. He is a master of the “Tachibana-ryu” style of swordsmanship and is known for his speed and agility.
  • Gen-an Shiranui: A powerful ninja who fights with a kusarigama, a sickle and chain weapon. He is a master of the “Shiranui-ryu” style of ninjutsu and is known for his deadly techniques.
  • Earthquake: A large and powerful wrestler who fights with his bare hands. He is a master of the “Earthquake-ryu” style of wrestling and is known for his immense strength.

Story

Samurai Shodown II takes place in the year 1788, one year after the events of the first game. The evil Mizuki has returned from the dead and is once again threatening the world. A group of warriors from all over the world must band together to defeat Mizuki and save the day.

The story of Samurai Shodown II is told through a series of cutscenes that are interspersed between the game’s battles. The cutscenes are beautifully drawn and do a great job of setting the game’s atmosphere and tone.

Graphics and Sound

Samurai Shodown II is a visually stunning game. The game’s pixel art is some of the best in the industry, and the character designs are incredibly detailed and expressive. The game’s backgrounds are also very well-done, and they do a great job of creating a sense of atmosphere and place.

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

Conclusion

Samurai Shodown II is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by many today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, unique art style, and memorable cast of characters make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a great fighting game to play, then you should definitely check out Samurai Shodown II.

Score: 9/10

Review Score

9/10

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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