Samurai Shodown

Archaic story mode and load times aside, Samurai Shodown succeeds as a fundamentals driven 2D fighting game.

Samurai Shodown's easy-to-learn controls and high-stakes combat deliver a terrific, strategic fighting game that stands out from the rest.

SNK's iconic series makes its return in this reboot that's short on features but rich in systems.

Samurai Shodown's varied attacks and techniques have plenty of depth for those who dive into multiplayer, though the modes and options are lacking

Above all, Samurai Shodown proves that SNK still has its fighting spirit. King of Fighters XIV wasn't an accident and it seems like any future games won't be, either. Now we just need to get Capcom back on track.

Samurai Shodown is back and it's arguably better than ever. SNK has delivered a truly gripping fighting game where the tides can turn in an instant, and it's this constant sense of tension that creates a uniquely electric experience. Against a backdrop of faster paced, combo-heavy fighters, Samurai Shodown stands out as a deliberate and excellently judged duelling simulator. Against a worthy opponent, there's simply nothing quite like it on PS4.

A confident and assured update of a classic fighting game series

Samurai Shodown manages to present a superb alternative to quicker, more bombastic fighters. This comes across as more of the thinking man's fighter, testing a player's reaction time and rewarding those who are able to read their opponents over those who try and go for meaningless combos.

Samurai Shodown is a great fighter that looks beautiful, and deserves a much bigger audience than it has - but as of right now, there aren't enough players online to satisfy fighting game fans, and there isn't enough singleplayer content for more casual fans. The new characters that have been added since launch are great, but Samurai Shodown still feels like a game that needs an overhaul. I still have my fingers crossed that the future of Samurai Shodown and SNK will be bright, but I still have my doubts.

Samurai Shodown is an excellent, slower-paced fighter that is accessible for both new players and veterans of fighting games.