amazon Samurai Shodown reviews
Not as flashy as the Guilty Gear series or Dragon Ball FighterZ with a series of epic continuous attacks, does not program a countervailing system like the Street Fighter series with the strength and skill, Samurai Shodown put all of its strength into attract players with a simple gameplay system.
Thanks to this, the player can pick up the joystick and play it with anyone, even though this is the first fighting game they play. Easy to play, easy to access is a strong highlight of this year’s Samurai Shodown, as well as the tradition of the series (one – two exception versions).
However, if you think that if a game is as simple as this, then anyone can play well, you are wrong. Tickets for Samurai Shodown’s “park” can be free but to be able to visit and understand all the entertainment spots, as well as stand high, the game requires some knowledge of the players as well as certain skills.
Samurai Shodown puts a heavy style on the basic characteristics of a fighting game, which is the number of frames, the distance of the character and normal, neutral attacks. If Street Fighter offers a high number of frames and distances to lay the groundwork for continuous attacks or create excitement and inspiration for its play style, then Samurai Shodown uses these elements as the core, create your own value.
Those who are hard-pressed to learn the game and apply their knowledge to these basic elements are rewarded with powerful defensive counter-attacks, phases that lure opponents to disarm or skill. dodge the attack to give an advantage to the character he controls.
Each character not only has different skills but also has different traits with different characteristics, but if the player does not take the time to study and learn thoroughly, the taste of bitter fruit in the fighting scenes. It is also common for battles in Samurai Shodown.
The game is designed by SNK at a low level to create a feeling for players that each battle is a one-to-one battle between swordsmen. A mistake often leads to a player’s swordsman losing an important match. In this style, Samurai Shodown emphasizes tactics, a point often ignored by most other fighting games. To win, players must think carefully about their actions. Reading the match and judging the opponent’s move is the key to winning, as well as the joy for the player in Samurai Shodown.
The biggest minus point in Samurai Shodown is that except for the story play, the single-player challenge and the training mode, the game has nothing for the player to play … alone. The game places heavy emphasis on the rivalry between players and players, and this Shodown Samurai performs very well and effectively, but apart from the antagonism between players, the replay value of the game has almost no attraction.
The current number of characters located at number 16 is also a small number for a modern fighting game, especially in the 16 characters above, there are 13 characters who are old, outstanding characters in The previous versions of the game and everyone knows. This makes the player’s surprise and excitement significantly reduced when they want to learn the characters in the game, choose their main characters to call thunder in the battle arena.
It is expected that there will be extensions, bring some other characters to the game, but with 4 new characters to be released every 2 months from here to February 2020, this speed is written by the writer It is slow and likely to cause players to forget about Samurai Shodown, especially when the fighting game is flooded with great, well-known titles like Soul Calibur VI, Street Fighter V or Dragon Ball FighterZ.
where can you get a Samurai Shodown online
Samurai Shodown – PlayStation 4: Buy it now
Samurai Shodown – PlayStation 4 (PS4): Buy it now
Samurai Shodown PS4: Buy it now
Gameplay Mechanics
Core Mechanics
“Samurai Shodown” is built around a simple yet deep combat system. Players have access to a light, medium, and heavy slash, as well as a kick attack. The core gameplay revolves around the careful management of space and timing. The heavy slashes, in particular, can deal massive damage, making every move count and encouraging a more measured approach to combat.
One of the game’s standout features is the “Rage Gauge.” As characters take damage, their Rage Gauge fills up, eventually allowing them to enter a “Rage Explosion” state. In this mode, characters gain increased attack power and access to their most devastating move: the Weapon Flipping Technique. This move can disarm opponents, adding another layer of strategy to the fights.
Deflect and Parry
“Samurai Shodown” also incorporates a deflect and parry system, which allows players to counter their opponent’s attacks with precise timing. Successfully deflecting an attack can create an opening for a powerful counterattack. This mechanic emphasizes defensive play and mind games, rewarding players for reading their opponent’s moves.
Special Moves and Supers
Each character in “Samurai Shodown” has a unique set of special moves and supers. These moves add variety to the combat and allow players to develop their own playstyle. The supers, known as Super Special Moves, are particularly impressive, featuring dramatic animations and dealing significant damage.
Graphics and Art Design
Visual Style
The 2019 “Samurai Shodown” adopts a stylized, semi-realistic art style that blends modern graphics with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The character models are detailed and expressive, capturing the essence of each fighter. The environments are beautifully crafted, with stages inspired by feudal Japan, complete with cherry blossoms, temples, and bamboo forests.
Animation
The animation quality in “Samurai Shodown” is top-notch. Characters move fluidly, and their attacks have a sense of weight and impact. The animation work is particularly impressive in the special moves and supers, which feature dynamic camera angles and cinematic effects.
Visual Effects
The game also excels in its use of visual effects. Blood splatters, sparks, and other effects enhance the visceral feel of the combat. The Rage Explosion state, in particular, is visually striking, with characters glowing red and emitting an intense aura.
Characters
Roster
“Samurai Shodown” boasts a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique fighting style and personality. The game includes both returning favorites from previous entries and new characters. Classic characters like Haohmaru, Nakoruru, and Jubei Yagyu make a return, bringing their iconic movesets with them.
Character Design
The character designs in “Samurai Shodown” are excellent, blending historical and fantastical elements. Each character’s design reflects their background and fighting style. For example, Haohmaru, the game’s protagonist, is a wandering swordsman with a rugged appearance, while Nakoruru, a shrine maiden, has a more elegant and ethereal look.
Character Balance
Balancing a fighting game roster is always a challenging task, and “Samurai Shodown” is no exception. SNK has done a commendable job of ensuring that each character feels viable and unique. While some characters may be more straightforward to play, others require more skill and strategy, catering to both casual and competitive players.
Story and Lore
Setting
“Samurai Shodown” is set in a fictionalized version of Japan during the late 18th century. The game’s setting is rich with historical and cultural references, creating an immersive atmosphere. The story revolves around the clash of various warriors, each with their own motivations and backstories.
Story Mode
The game’s story mode provides a narrative framework for the battles, with each character having their own storyline and ending. While the story mode may not be as deep or complex as some other fighting games, it serves its purpose of giving context to the battles and adding depth to the characters.
Game Modes
Single-Player Modes
In addition to the story mode, “Samurai Shodown” offers a range of single-player modes. The arcade mode allows players to fight through a series of opponents, culminating in a final boss battle. There is also a survival mode, where players can test their endurance by fighting as many opponents as possible without being defeated.
Multiplayer Modes
Multiplayer is where “Samurai Shodown” truly shines. The game offers both local and online multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete against friends or challenge opponents from around the world. The netcode is generally stable, providing a smooth online experience.
Sound Design
Music
The soundtrack of “Samurai Shodown” is a highlight, featuring traditional Japanese instruments and melodies that enhance the game’s atmosphere. Each stage has its own unique theme, contributing to the overall immersion.
Sound Effects
The sound effects in “Samurai Shodown” are crisp and impactful. The clashing of swords, the sound of special moves, and the vocal performances all add to the intensity of the combat. The sound design effectively conveys the power and brutality of the battles.
Replayability
Unlockables
“Samurai Shodown” offers a variety of unlockables, including additional costumes, artwork, and other bonuses. These unlockables provide an incentive for players to continue playing and mastering the game.
Competitive Play
The game’s depth and strategic gameplay make it a strong contender in the competitive fighting game scene. The balance of risk and reward, the emphasis on mind games, and the diverse roster all contribute to its appeal for competitive players.
Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
Learning Curve
One of the criticisms of “Samurai Shodown” is its steep learning curve. The game’s emphasis on precise timing and strategic play can be challenging for newcomers. While this depth is part of the game’s appeal, it can also be a barrier to entry for less experienced players.
Limited Single-Player Content
While the single-player modes are enjoyable, some players may find them lacking in depth and variety compared to other fighting games. The story mode, in particular, could benefit from more elaborate narratives and additional cutscenes.
Microtransactions
The inclusion of microtransactions for cosmetic items has been a point of contention among some players. While these microtransactions do not affect gameplay, they can be seen as detracting from the overall experience.
Conclusion
“Samurai Shodown” is a triumphant return for the series, capturing the essence of what made the original games special while updating the formula for modern audiences. Its unique focus on strategic combat, combined with its stunning visuals, diverse roster, and engaging multiplayer modes, make it a standout title in the fighting game genre.
The game’s emphasis on precise timing, deliberate strikes, and mind games sets it apart from other fighting games, offering a refreshing alternative for players looking for a more thoughtful and strategic experience. While the steep learning curve and limited single-player content may be drawbacks for some, the overall package is a testament to SNK’s dedication to quality and their understanding of what makes “Samurai Shodown” so beloved.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a unique and challenging fighting game, “Samurai Shodown” offers a rich and rewarding experience that stands the test of time. With its blend of traditional and modern elements, it serves as both a homage to the past and a bold step forward for the franchise.