Crossed Swords II

Crossed Swords II

Overview & History

Released exclusively in Japan in 1995 as a very rare sequel for the Neo Geo CD system (and later developed for the Neo Geo AES/MVS architecture), Crossed Swords II is a fascinating fusion of first-person hack-and-slash action and Japanese role-playing elements. Developed by ADK (Alpha Denshi), the game plunges players back into the fantasy realm of Belkana. Seven years after the defeat of the evil demon NaDoom, a new darkness rises, forcing the spectral warrior knights to once again materialize and reclaim their physical forms. Serving as one of the few first-person perspective melee titles on SNK’s powerful 16-bit hardware, it pushed the Neo Geo CD's audio-Visual capabilities with atmospheric redbook audio and lush, detailed sprite scaling.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard side-scrolling beat-'em-ups, Crossed Swords II utilizes a distinct 3D-plane, first-person perspective where players maneuver left and right, dodge enemy strikes, and unleash devastating melee attacks. The combat engine relies heavily on a rock-paper-scissors system of high, middle, and low attacks, requiring precise timing to parry incoming blows with a shield before striking vulnerable enemy flanks. Players can choose between multiple hero avatars, each wielding distinct weaponry such as broadswords, spears, or morning stars, accompanied by magical elemental projectiles. Furthermore, the game incorporates light RPG progression, allowing players to collect gold, upgrade weapons, purchase restorative items, and even level up their attributes between sprawling stages that span haunted forests, ruined castles, and fiery infernos.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move left/right, duck, and step sideways
• Action Keys: Attack (High/Mid/Low combos), Jump, and Shield Block
• Enter: Start / Pause