Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Samurai Shodown V marks a return to the iconic weapon-based fighting series after a seven-year hiatus, and it brings a noticeably faster pace compared to its predecessors. The removal of the Slash/Bust system means each character now has a single, unified move set, simplifying the selection process while retaining depth of strategy. Fans familiar with the previous outings will notice the absence of combo slashes, sidestepping, and gruesome fatalities, making each duel more focused on timing and precision rather than elaborate sequences.

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The core mechanics are rooted in the foundations laid by the first Samurai Shodown and the more refined controls of Samurai Shodown II. Players can wield three distinct slash types—high, mid, and low—alongside a single strong kick and a variety of dodge maneuvers taken directly from the series’ golden era. This streamlined approach encourages close-quarters engagement and punishing counterattacks, rewarding those who master spacing and weapon reach over mindless button mashing.

With 24 fighters on the roster, Samurai Shodown V strikes a balance between returning favorites such as Haohmaru and Nakoruru and intriguing newcomers who effectively fill the void left by the old Bust-mode variants. Each warrior feels unique thanks to carefully tuned move lists and distinct weapon animations, ensuring that matchups remain fresh. While the inability to finish off an opponent with a dramatic fatality may disappoint some, the emphasis here is on honorable martial arts combat, making every victory feel earned.

Graphics

The visual presentation of Samurai Shodown V is a testament to the power of 2D sprite work in the late ‘90s. Character sprites are hand-drawn with meticulous detail, showcasing fluid animations and expressive idle poses. Each slash is accentuated by dynamic slash effects, giving weight to every strike and making the choreography of battles visually compelling.

Backgrounds are equally impressive, ranging from moonlit shrines to misty rice fields, all packed with atmospheric flourishes such as drifting leaves and subtle parallax scrolling. These environmental touches reinforce the Edo-period setting of 1786, immersing players in the prequel timeline as they duel from January through the hot summer months.

Special effects like weapon sparks, dust clouds, and character-specific flare moves are rendered crisply, ensuring that each battle feels impactful. The color palette strikes a fine balance between rich, earthy tones for traditional locales and vibrant highlights for move animations, making both the fighters and their surroundings pop on screen.

Story

Set in 1786, Samurai Shodown V—known in Japan as Samurai Spirits Zero—serves as a narrative prequel that explores the origins of legendary fighters. The prequel positioning grants the developers freedom to introduce character backstories and rivalries that later installments would build upon. From the first frosty dawns of January to the sweltering heat of late summer, the timeline provides a cohesive framework for personal vendettas and alliances to emerge.

While the single-player mode primarily consists of classic arcade ladders, each character’s ending offers snippets of lore that expand on their motivations and relationships. Haohmaru’s quest for self-improvement, Nakoruru’s bond with nature, and Galford’s dogged pursuit of justice all feel interconnected within this early chapter of the series mythos. These concise narratives effectively set the stage for the more elaborate plots found in later titles.

Despite the pared-down story presentation—there are no lengthy cutscenes or voiced dialogues—fans will appreciate the subtleties of character interactions and the thematic focus on honor versus vengeance. The lack of fatalities aligns with this narrative tone: battles end with dignity rather than spectacle, reinforcing the samurai code that underpins the entire saga.

Overall Experience

Samurai Shodown V is a masterclass in refined 2D weapon fighting, offering a welcome blend of nostalgia and fresh design choices. Its return to streamlined mechanics and emphasis on honest, one-on-one duels makes it accessible to newcomers while still providing enough complexity to satisfy seasoned fighters. The diverse roster and balanced move sets keep competitive play engaging without over-reliance on gimmicks.

Visually and aurally, the game remains a highlight of the Neo Geo era, capturing the aesthetic charm of hand-drawn sprites accompanied by traditional Japanese music cues and impactful sound effects. The lack of flashy fatalities may be a departure for series loyalists, but it underscores a thematic shift toward honorable combat and narrative cohesion.

Whether you’re seeking a tight, weapon-based fighter for local tournaments or a deep dive into the early lore of Samurai Shodown, this prequel delivers. Its fast-paced rounds, distinct character designs, and evocative setting combine to create an experience that stands proudly alongside its acclaimed predecessors—and paves the way for the series’ future entries.

Retro Replay Score

6.2/10