Now we come to one of the all-time great fighting games. Samurai
Shodown 2 is a brilliantly executed and conceived sequel, a skillful
and challenging game that should keep fans thrilled for ages. This is
universally regarded as the peak of the series, for good reason.
Half a dozen new fighters are introduced to the roster, all very
impressive and unique, all while exploring different methods of
weapon-based combat. I'm very impressed that SNK managed to create new
characters without copying anyone else. Even Soul Calibur could barely
manage a dozen fighters before double-dipping. SamSho 2 brings the
total to a very impressive 15.
The controls feel well-oiled, and matches seem to flow more quickly than
before. All fighters have more special attacks, including a number of
defensive moves that were truly groundbreaking. In addition to rolling,
ducking, or hopping to dodge attacks, you can successfully parry an
attack with precise timing. At least, that's what Wikipedia says. I'll
be very thrilled if I can pull that trick off, so I better practice.
In addition, you can taunt your opponent, unleash super desperation
moves when your POW (frustration) meter is filled, and even destroy your
opponent's sword. That is an especially thrilling moment, especially
when you're clawing back a dramatic comeback. I've saved my bacon more
than a few times thanks to the desperation moves.
The graphics appear more detailed, more colorful, more smoothly
animated. The color palette hews darker for this sequel. It's an
autumnal tone, heavy on the reds and browns. I'm a sucker for warm
color tones, so obviously I'm a fan. The arterial sprays look
especially nice at the end of a match, and how often do you get to say
that? Even the camera scaling, a staple of Neo-Geo games, appears very
smooth and refined.
I think SamSho 2 plays much, much better than the original, for all the
reasons listed above. The game feels more liquid, more loose. Attack
combos are now a factor, and this really speeds up the game.
Thankfully, the tactical approach to fighting is still present and has
not been sacrificed. I appreciate that Samurai Shodown is a smarter
fighting game. Button mashers are not welcome. Smarts are what is
required.
I love the Japanese vibe to Samurai Shoown 2. It's even more steeped
in the mythic past than the original, evoking Kabuki and Noh theatre and
Kurasawa's samurai westerns. The music and audio are especially grand
at transporting me back to this lost world. This game just breathes
style with every note, every beat. SNK really was onto something
special. Is this their greatest fighter? Fans will no doubt flock to
the King of Fighters series, and rightfully so. Those are outstanding
arcade games. But this game has the panache. It has style in
spades.