A couple of years ago we talked about a potential leak of the revival of a classic, Samurai Shodown, and the initial mixed reactions that fans had about the announcement. We now know that this remake is for sure happening this year and that SNK and Anthion Games are the developers to thank for it. Recently, some new gameplay has been shown for the upcoming weapon-based, ninja-style fighter that will be utilizing the Unreal Engine 4. Take a look at a few matches below:
For those unfamiliar, Samurai Shodown’s last major title was Samurai Shodown Sen back in 2008. As viewers can tell from the video, the combat is now a little slower and the blood and graphics are much more crisp since the last game eleven years ago. While little is known about any kind of background story in this new version, there are a few details. This installment will take place in the year 1787 and Matsudaira Sadanobu has been appointed as counsel to the Shogun with the goal of reforming within the Kansei era. However, this endgame of reform may be hindered by a mysterious, dark cloud that is creeping closer with a foul purpose.
A few new mechanics are coming to the combat such as the Rage Gauge, which leads up to more powerful attacks. Even more new features will include Sword Clashes and Rage Explosion. Three brand new characters will be arriving while thirteen fighters will be returning from previous games. Each battle will be unique and the AI will be responding with the all new “Dojo Mode,” a system that learns from player fighting styles and can create a cloned Ghost of the player that they can spare with.
Taking place at some point in between the first game and Samurai Shodown V, SNK has stated that Samurai Shodown will be available for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC this coming Summer before the EVO 2019 event. Some lucky potential games may even be able to try out the game at PAX East this month.