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Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa’s Revenge

Neo Geo AES

Neo Geo AES

Bringing a new breath to SNK's swordsman fighting series, this 4th installment marks the return of 3 classic characters (Yagyu Jubei, Charlotte and Tam Tam, now with updated stuff), introduces 2 newcomers for the pantheon (the brothers Sogetsu Kazama and Kazuki Kazama) and brings some new backgro...

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Developer
SNK

Released on
1996

Size
1–2 Players

Version
Neo Geo AES

Requirements
SNK Neo Geo AES

Downloads
Fighting

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

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Description

Bringing a new breath to SNK’s swordsman fighting series, this 4th installment marks the return of 3 classic characters (Yagyu Jubei, Charlotte and Tam Tam, now with updated stuff), introduces 2 newcomers for the pantheon (the brothers Sogetsu Kazama and Kazuki Kazama) and brings some new backgrounds.

In spite of these little improvements, the game preserved (and improved a lot) many elements that did the previous one (Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood) a quite popular title, like the dodge move and the chance to choose between two versions of the fighter: the standard one and an alternative dark-styled one (SLASH and BUST, respectively).

Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa's Revenge

Overview & History

Released by SNK in 1996 for the Neo Geo AES, Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa's Revenge (known as *Samurai Spirits: Amakusa降臨* in Japan) acts as a direct narrative bridge between the first and second titles. The plot follows a resurrected, corrupted Shiro Tokisada Amakusa as he threatens the world once more, forcing a diverse cast of historical and fictional warriors—including newcomers Kazuki and Sogetsu Kazama—to converge on Shimabara Castle. Renowned for its frantic pacing and dark, atmospheric art direction, SSIV refined the weapon-based fighting engine of its predecessors, introducing desperate new mechanics that favored aggressive, high-risk playstyles over defensive turtling.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

SSIV famously introduced the "Continuous Slash" (Zankuro-zansou) combo system, allowing players to execute pre-determined button sequences for devastating multi-hit strings. It also brought back the popular Fatal Flash (Issen) mechanic, enabling characters to sacrifice a portion of their defense or life bar for a singular, high-damage dash attack that could instantly reverse the tide of a round. The introduction of the "CD" explosive Power gauge management system added tactical depth, giving fighters access to Super Special Moves or the ability to disarm opponents. Furthermore, SSIV is infamous for its visceral, over-the-top "Zankuro" fatalities—gruesome finishing moves performed by holding specific button combinations when the opponent's life bar flashes red.