Samurai Shodown Reviews
Samurai Shodown is an excellent, slower-paced fighter that is accessible for both new players and veterans of fighting games.
As one of many Ken 'Masters' (very pleased with that one), the initial reaction to Samurai Shodown is a jarring one. Expecting to mow down hordes of AI controlled characters easily and instead getting beaten to pulp in a matter of seconds can be off-putting, to say the least. What quickly becomes apparent however is that gameplay treads the fine and brilliant line of 'easy to play, difficult to perfect'. Once a bit of caution is implemented, not a lot in the genre is as satisfying as a graceful dodge, parry and complete destruction. This is great for forgetting the old ways and embracing the way of the Samurai.
Samurai Shodown on Xbox Series X is one for the fans or for those who enjoy games such as The King of Fighters or Metal Slug. While it doesn't offer next-gen glory on the XSX (e.g. all those bells and whistles of next-gen gaming), it does offer speed and gameplay that runs as 120 FPS that enhances the gameplay of this classic. For newcomers, controls are easy, however the gameplay might be a little tougher to master but nonetheless, it's a fun game and one that I'm sure fans will revisit many times.
It’s to SNK’s enormous credit that they’ve kept the Samurai Shodown franchise fresh for long enough to deliver a game in 2021 that deserves to take its place alongside the heavy hitters of the mainstream fighting scene. Sadly, a lack of content means that it’s unlikely to be first choice for the aficionados. Still worth checking out though, especially if you’re able to give it a go at 120fps.
Overall Samurai Shodown for the Xbox Series X is a pretty good 1v1 versus fighter. While I may not be able to compare it to the previous generation, it does a fairly good job at what it sets out to do whether you're planning for a night in for some couch versus or if you're feeling confident enough to take your skills online.
For what it’s worth, this is where advanced players come in, as well as a bit of practice needed, to ensure you get there. That aside, this is a title that comes out as a must-have for fighting game enthusiasts looking for a ‘90s-like experience in modern times.
Samurai Shodown’s jump onto the Xbox Series doesn’t bring much new to the battle outside of a faster frame rate. The jump to 120 frames per second is noticeable though and something I hope to see more fighting games on console offer in the future. Samurai Shodown is still going strong a couple years after its original release with more content still on the way for the gorgeous Japanese fighter. If you’ve yet to jump in and have a compatible display for the faster frames now is the best time to pick up your blade.
Samurai Shodown slices its way into next-gen, bringing its unique take on defensive-based combat to the Xbox Series X. Promising up to 120 FPS and visual improvements over its 2019 release, this in-depth review goes into what works and what falls short with SNK's latest release. Sharpen your blades and get ready for a showdown like no other!
If you can look past the scarcity of modes and the anemic nature of the ones on offer, Samurai Showdown Special Edition is a fantastic return of a beloved fighting game franchise. It's a refreshing option for those who might want a break or palate cleanser from the combo heavy and more bombastic fighting games that are more prevalent in the scene today.
Samurai Shodown maintains its identity, even after many years, while supporting the evolution of the video game market. Fans will be able to meet their favorite fighters with better graphics to increase the enjoyment of the game and also benefit from new special attacks, each always reflecting the characteristics of the characters. Neither the story of the game nor the plots of the characters are deepened, as happens for example in other titles such as Mortal Kombat, the dynamics of the game in this one remain much more similar to other types of fighting games, such as Tekken. There are no advancement bonuses provided for the playing time of the characters, nor items that can be unlocked or purchased to increase the level or attack power of the characters. But there are numerous game variations and modes: Survival, Timed, Versus and Online. On the other hand, the innovative advanced learning technology and the improvements made to the graphics unlock a whole new sector of the game that greatly increases longevity and fun by adapting to the characteristics of the player.
Review in Italian | Read full review
SamSho just got smoother.
In sum, Samurai Shodown is back and the release for the Xbox Series X does very well for itself. Though a little scant on content compared to some others in the genre, this is still a great game for fans of the franchise or the genre.
Samurai Shodown feels like a real breath of fresh air for the beat'em-up, personally I can say that I find it very attractive to feel that I'm actually playing a game that aims to really simulate what a duel would be, forcing us to manage both defence and attack equally, and moving away from the typical button-crushing that for many people is this kind of genre.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Samurai Shodown is a must-play for any fans of the fighting genre, but do not be surprised if you quickly move on from it.
“Samurai Showdown slices its way onto PC with one of the most unique fighting systems in the genre. Despite a lack of content, this is a brilliant fighter that deservers your attention.”
A revamped classic comes PC within a year of its launch on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. This version is virtually identical to its console counterpart, but with longer load times and fewer players in online mode
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Samurai Shodown is a fantastic addition to the franchise. The robust combat and amazing style make it one of the best fighters out there. The PC port itself is really solid and I had zero issues booting it up and jumping right into the game. The game only supports resolutions up to 1080p which is not an issue for me but some may be turned off by it. The only other issue I ran into was that online matches will have some lag issues. I think a better netcode would probably help out here. The game has tremendous replay value and is well worth the $49.99 price tag. If you’ve been holding out for the PC port of Samurai Shodown or haven’t picked it up yet, there is not better time than the present.
Samurai Shodown for the PC is an old school style fighting game that has been modernized while also staying true to its roots.
It’s always exciting to get the chance to play a game you truly enjoy after an extended time away from it and see that it remains just as good as you remember it.
While disappointing in terms of content, Samurai Shodown's fighting mechanics alone are enough to make this a solid recommendation. As long as you don't care about not having an actual story mode or tons of unlockables, and if you feel brave enough to enter the unforgiving online portion of SNK's niche fighter, be sure to check this out.