The character models are fully three dimensional, but there are a few neat shading tricks at play that give each character a more anime-like appearance.

Samurai Shodown has transitioned to polygons, but it retains a lot of its sprite-based charm. The art style is faithful to the series’ classic games, and the vivid backgrounds add to the visual delights.

Issen is a Rage-exclusive attack that can make short work of your opponent. If it connects, the screen transitions to a red-and-black color scheme, and your opponent explodes in a shower of blood.

You always want to be close enough to attack your opponent, but not so close that you are vulnerable. You are constantly fighting for space, it is important to position yourself so that you’re able to counter or punish an opponent’s attack.

In addition to the stylized models and backgrounds, the attacks possess strong visual effects to capture the spirit of the older games. Many of Genjuro's attacks evoke Japanese artwork, for example.

You have access to one super special move during the match that is independent of your meter or health, but can only be used a single time. If you nail it, the background takes on a neat Japanese art style filter and you dish out damage in style.