The wait is over for 3D sword fighting fans: Rising Star Games has scooped the rights to publish the Xbox 360 exclusive Samurai Shodown Sen. Samurai Shodown Sen, known as Samurai Spirits: Flash in Japan – is the 11th game in SNK’s classic Japanese weapons-based fighting series and the fourth in the 3D series. The game takes place in Japan in the year 1791, during the twilight of the turbulent Edo period, and promises to be the most brutal and visceral chapter in the Samurai Shodown series’ history.Originally released in Japanese arcades, Samurai Shodown Sen follows a young samurai named Suzu, a European Princess kidnapped by Japanese officials and raised as a samurai. Staying close to its roots, alongside Suzu and a host of new characters, a plethora of old favourites from the series have been faithfully incorporated, including Haohmaru, Kibagami, Nakoruru and Ukyo – taking the warriors to over 20 in total.
Each character has its own unique backstory and stats sheet, with each adopting varied, yet personalised sword styles, such as the traditional Korean spear fighter Kim, along with contemporary, artistic techniques from J, the afro samurai and Gallows, the axe-wielding Viking.
Plus, the Power Slash lives on in Samurai Shodown Sen, allowing brutal vertical and horizontal slashes to enemies, while Rage Explosion increases attack power and Guard Shatter moves render opponents defenceless.
A true classic, the Samurai Showdown series made its debut on the Neo Geo over 16 years ago, notching up over 10 instalments across a variety of formats, reinforcing the longevity and durability of the franchise. Samurai Shodown Sen marries the tradition of the series to the high definition of the Xbox 360, introducing new characters and fighting skills, while remaining loyal to existing favourites.
“The kudos the SNK series carries sits comfortably within our portfolio and fans of the sword-fighting series won’t be disappointed; the 3D graphics simply must be seen,” says Martin Defries, managing director, Rising Star Games.
* Experience the first Samurai Shodown in high definition, showing more detail and greater realism.
* Choose from the biggest roster of fighters in the series with over 20 new and familiar warriors.
* Unleash a host of deadly attacks including rage explosions, guard shatters and power slashes.