Haohmaru
A wandering swordsman and one of the series' central protagonists.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Arrow LeftArrow Right | Move left or right |
|---|---|
Arrow Up | Jump |
Arrow Down | Crouch |
ABC | Attack The Genesis buttons provide the game's attack and kick functions; exact attack strength depends on the assigned button. |
Back | Guard or retreat Guarding is performed by holding away from the opponent. |
Control notes
Button layouts can differ between three-button and six-button Genesis controllers.
Special moves require directional inputs combined with an attack button.
How it plays
How does Samurai Shodown play?
Matches use a side-view arena with two fighters, each carrying a weapon. The objective is to win rounds by reducing the opponent's life bar, with strong attacks capable of turning a match around quickly.
Players walk, jump, crouch, guard, slash, kick, and use character-specific special moves. Arcade-style progression leads through successive opponents before a final encounter. The game is primarily a single-player tournament experience, with versus play available for two players.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Samurai Shodown?
Treat every attack as a commitment. Stay just outside the opponent's weapon range, then punish missed swings with a slash or a character-specific special move.
- Use crouching and jumping selectively; reckless jumping is easy to punish.
- Guard against large attacks and answer recovery animations instead of forcing long combos.
- Learn each fighter's weapon range, speed, and preferred distance before attempting difficult matches.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Nakoruru
A shrine maiden who fights alongside her hawk, Mamahaha.
Genjuro Kibagami
A ruthless swordsman and Haohmaru's recurring rival.
Ukyo Tachibana
A refined swordsman known for fast, precise attacks.
Charlotte
A French fencer who uses a long rapier.
Hanzo Hattori
A skilled ninja who relies on speed and ninjutsu.
Galford
An American ninja accompanied by his dog, Poppy.
Amakusa Shiro Tokisada
The principal supernatural antagonist and final boss.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Weapon range and timing matter more than repeated attacks.
- 2
Avoid trading strong attacks unless the damage is clearly favorable.
- 3
In versus matches, watch the opponent's habits after knockdowns.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0