Samurai Shodown: Special Edition

 Xbox Series X
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
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  1. Cubed3
    Aug 31, 2021
    70
    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.
  2. Games.cz
    Apr 20, 2021
    70
    This is a solid next-gen upgrade for a solid fighting game. It runs better but its biggest problems remain unsolved. I don’t really see it breaking through to become truly mainstream.
  3. Finger Guns
    Apr 1, 2021
    70
    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 afficionados. Still worth checking out though, especially if you’re able to give it a go at 120fps.
  5. Player 2
    Mar 25, 2021
    67
    A little light on content and a touch on the pricey side, Samurai Showdown on the Series could have perhaps been packaged better. But there is no denying the joy offered by its blood soaked and engaging one on one battles.

Awards & Rankings

38
#38 Best Xbox Series X Game of 2021
78
#78 Most Discussed Xbox Series X Game of 2021

User Reviews

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User Score
6.5

Mixed or average reviews- based on 4 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 1 out of 4
  1. Xbox_Alive
    Apr 2, 2021
    8
    Samurai Showdown returns hard hitting and Beautifully Cell-Shaded. Samurai Showdown takes us on an adventure into the methodical One on OneSamurai Showdown returns hard hitting and Beautifully Cell-Shaded. Samurai Showdown takes us on an adventure into the methodical One on One weapon based combat of the Samurai, where every move must be decisive. Each fighter is outfitted with a wild array of visually stunning and powerful techniques and combos. They're important yes, but a strong defense and an eye for openings in your opponents guard is far more important. Button Mashing, and refusing to block tend to get punished hard with a well timed heavy strike, some of which can deplete over a quarter of a life bar, and drop you into the losing corner fast! Likewise well timed defense is often rewarded by creating an opening in the opponents defenses, maybe even giving you time to land one of the Once-A-Battle moves every fighter possesses! Even the fast characters need to think about when to strike and when to block, and if they have a big enough opening for a heavy strike. The soundtrack is well composed, feeling authentic, without compromising the Fighting Spirit needed for satisfying combat. If you're a collector of the franchise, or looking for a fighting game where you feel accomplished when you win a tough fight, this game is a must have addition to your Xbox Series X library.… Full Review »
  2. HoTToucH
    May 4, 2022
    9
    Samurai shodown is an amazing little game with unfortunate lack of content for Single player modes. It’s easy to learn, Hard to masterSamurai shodown is an amazing little game with unfortunate lack of content for Single player modes. It’s easy to learn, Hard to master technique isn’t for everyone. If you like a fighting game that rewards patience instead of button mashing, Unarming your rivals at the correct moment just to slice off body parts and plenty of “Movie like” moments demonstrating your kill move then look no further than this game. Each character has their own beginning, Middle and Endgame storylines and post credits scene. They’re basic but good enough that you don’t exactly want to skip it. The visuals are exactly the same on the series X as they were when I had it on the ps4, The major difference (HUGE difference) is the loading times. What an improvement! It’s why I upgraded in the first place. I’m not the biggest SNK fan but as I’ve gotten older I’ve gotten to appreciate their games more and more. Each time I’ve gotten the game it’s been on sale. I don’t reccomend it as a $60 purchase since there id not enough content but at $30 it hits the sweet spot. Buy it for the Fighting, Stay for the characters. Story 3/5. Graphics 4/5 Sound 5/5 Move set 5/5. Final score 8.5/10… Full Review »
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