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"Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood" is the third game in SNK's popular Samurai Shodown series of weapon-based fighting games. Released in 1995 for the Neo Geo arcade system, it was later ported to various home consoles, including the Neo Geo CD, PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Game Boy.
Gameplay and Features:
Storyline: The game is set between the events of "Samurai Shodown" and "Samurai Shodown II" and follows twelve samurai and swordsmen who seek revenge against the demonic swordsman Zankuro Minazuki.
Character Selection: Players can choose from a roster of returning characters, each with a new visual design, as well as new characters introduced in this installment.
Gameplay Mechanics: The game features a darker aesthetic compared to its predecessors, with more serious and gritty character designs. It introduces two selectable versions of each character: "Slash" (chivalry) and "Bust" (treachery), each with unique moves and fighting styles.
Controls: The control layout was updated, dedicating three buttons to weapon attacks and one for kicking attacks. Special moves have priority, and players can dodge attacks by pressing two buttons simultaneously.
Items and Stages: Items are thrown onto the battlefield from off-screen, and the game features various stages with different backgrounds and climactic changes during battles.
Reception:
"Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood" received positive reviews for its gameplay, graphics, and the introduction of new features. The game's darker tone and new gameplay mechanics were well-received by fans and critics alike.
Legacy:
The game is considered a classic in the fighting game genre and remains popular among fans of the Samurai Shodown series. It paved the way for future installments and contributed to the franchise's enduring legacy.