Samurai Shodown II
Samurai Shodown II is a 1994 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. The sequel to the groundbreaking Samurai Shodown introduced 5 new characters, refined the Rage Gauge system, and added fatalities - making it one of the most violent fighting games of its era.
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About This Game
The roster expanded to 15 fighters including newcomers like Cham Cham, Genan Shiranui, and Nicotine Caffeine. Each character received new special moves and the ability to perform two different Super Special Techniques based on their remaining health.
Gameplay innovations included the Slash/Bust weapon mode selection, Rage Explosion attacks, and the debut of the series' iconic fatalities (including decapitations). The Neo Geo hardware pushed sprite animation further with 300+ frames per character and dynamic camera zooms during special moves.
Considered the pinnacle of the series by many fans, Samurai Shodown II won multiple 'Fighting Game of the Year' awards and was ported to 14 different home systems. Its perfect balance of strategy and spectacle influenced all subsequent weapon-based fighters.
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Samurai Shodown
Samurai Shodown is a 1993 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. Set in 18th century Japan, it revolutionized fighting games by introducing deliberate pacing, weapon combat mechanics, and the iconic Rage Gauge system.
Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood
Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood is a 1995 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. This radical reinvention of the series introduced a branching storyline, stance-based combat, and the revolutionary 'Rage Slash' system that dramatically altered gameplay dynamics.
Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa's Revenge
Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa's Revenge is a 1996 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. Serving as the climax of the original Samurai Shodown saga, it refined III's mechanics while bringing back fan-favorite elements like fatalities and a more balanced roster.
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