Samurai Shodown Reviews
The first installment in 11 years shows why the series remains to this day, but also why it is eclipsed by greater fighting franchises.
SamSho just got smoother.
An excellent return for an arcade classic, Samurai Shodown is a reboot that looks sensational, has a wealth of options, plays remarkably well, and possesses deep, hugely rewarding fighting mechanics. The Dojo mode is also superb, ensuring that Samurai Shodown doesn't just push the envelope, but slices it wide open.
For better or worse, Samurai Shodown comes down to your ability to read your opponent. You don't need fancy combos or memorize a bunch of things to be good. In fact, a lot of attacks have universal inputs and a lot of moves use the same basic input. If this isn't a turn off, odds are you will enjoy Samurai Shodown. However, if you love mastering combos and getting off some truly impressive feats, this simple isn't the game for you. Once you have the confidence in your ability, it's all about who can read their opponent better.
Samurai Shodown is a fun release that brings back memories of a simpler time in the fighting genre where focus laid squarely on technique and gamer ease-of-use. The inclusion of a variety of modes helps to beef up the fighting content and offer up good challenges for those seeking them. All of this makes the experience more engaging and entertaining.
Samurai Shodown doesn't try to appeal to everyone, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
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.
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.
Despite inconsistent visual presentation and some barebones modes, Samurai Showdown shines as both a unique fighter and a resurrection of a classic series.
Samurai Shodown, at the end of the day, is one of the more unique entries in the fighting game genre in recent years.
While lacking in diverse combat, Samurai Shodown's intentionally slower combat offers a fresh style of gameplay worth experiencing
While there are some things I wish could be fixed (again, where is Gen-an?!), Samurai Shodown gets a whole lot right. The gameplay feels just about perfect, and takes some time to master; the modes have a lot to offer, though story and online mode could use a slight bit of tweaking. The presentation can’t be beat when it comes to authenticity and it nails the old-school vibe of the original series.
Solid fighting game mechanics that are easy to pick up yet highly competitive and rewarding to master. Solid online netcode. Disappointing single player offerings.
Samurai Shodown is a great reboot for the series, and one of the most enjoyable beat 'em up produced by SNK of the last years.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Samurai Showdown is an unique FTG which has few combos. But only using fists and swords is not boring at all. On the contrary, it is fast-paced and fun to play. I am glad that SNK brings this old-school FTG to the latest platforms.
Review in Chinese | Read full review
Moreover, failure to get that timing right essentially leaves you open to a smart, reactive player capable of truly reading the play.
Samurai Shodown for the Nintendo Switch is a solid fighting title for returning players and newcomers alike. While it does suffer visually, particularly in handheld mode, the gameplay remains stellar throughout.
Samurai Showdown for the Switch is a brilliant reboot of a terrific classic fighter. Its unique fighting mechanics persist, backed by a beautiful presentation upgrade. Still, its online community is lacking, and its uniqueness may be off-putting to many.
Samurai Shodown, the reboot, for the Nintendo Switch carries on the traditions from the game's original introduction. With plenty of battle mode options and a plethora of unique characters to choose from boredom shouldn't happen anytime soon. The game's mechanics focus more on timely execution of a move versus stringing together a complex set of combos. This mechanic alone opens up the doors for more players, even those who are "fighting game challenged"!
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!