Among fighting game players, the name “The Last Blade 2” is often spoken of with a special reverence, or at least with nostalgic amusement. It’s one of SNK’s cult hits, and also one that came out near the end of the Neo Geo arcade system’s lifespan (1998). The Last Blade 2 entranced many an arcade goer with its fluid combat system and unique cast of characters, and its legacy is still spoken of in ‘this game deserves a remake’ circles to this day.

In modern times,  your best bet for playing the game is through emulation, or by finding a PlayStation 2 or Dreamcast copy of the game (provided you have the appropriate console as well). But for those out there who are unable or unwilling to turn to these options, rest assured: SNK Playmore announced this week that they will be re-releasing The Last Blade 2 on PlayStation 4 and Vita, come May 24th.

This latest release, which was originally teased back in December last year, features “pixel perfect emulation” by Code Mystics, as well as online and local multiplayer.

Watch the Last Blade 2 trailer below:

Set in the late Edo Period of Japan, The Last Blade 2 follows the fates of 18 heroes, each of whom fights to seal an immensely powerful evil spirit back in the Underworld. LB2’s combat, which is often compared to that of SNK’s Samurai Shodown series, is described by SNK as such:

First, you can select your favorite sword type between Power, Speed, and Extreme modes. Be sure to master the Repel mechanic to counter your opponent’s attacks, and when the right time comes activate Super Secret Slash, Hidden Secret Slash, and Enigma Frenzy Attack ultimate techniques in order to change the outcome of the battle.

Exciting, no?

Additionally, this version of The Last Blade 2 features cross-play and cross-saves between the PS4 and the Vita. This means that players will be able to fight one another on both systems! This also means that owning a copy of the game on one system means you can play it on the other.

And before we forget, PS4 and Vita menu themes for The Last Blade 2 will also be available on release.

The Last Blade 2 releases on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita on May 24. Now’s the chance to play a legendary fighting game whose patient fanbase has waited many years to re-experience one of the Neo Geo’s esteemed classics.

Those looking to play The Last Blade 2 competitively will be happy to hear that there is still a thriving scene for the game in Japan; a comprehensive wiki that breaks down the game’s mechanics and esoterics can be found here.

Official art by The Last Blade series artist TONKO. She made this illustration for a recent LB2 tournament in Japan.