SAMURAI SHODOWN II in IOS

Action

Walkthrough, Guilds, Tips on this special game

Our Site Score

90/100

Samurai Shodown II is a masterpiece of the fighting genre, and this mobile port preserves every bit of its neo-geo soul. This isn't a button-masher; it's a high-stakes duel where a single well-timed heavy slash can take off a third of your health bar. The tension is palpable, and the mobile controls, while requiring a bit of a learning curve, are surprisingly responsive for such a technical game.

The roster is legendary, featuring icons like Haohmaru and Nakoruru, each with distinct fighting styles that feel balanced yet unique. The aesthetic remains unmatched—the feudal Japanese art style and haunting traditional soundtrack create an atmosphere that modern fighters rarely achieve. It’s a difficult, rewarding, and beautiful piece of gaming history that every fighting game fan should have on their phone.

Reviewed on: Fri Feb 27 2026
Dinsun Avatar

Dinsun Review

Look, Samurai Shodown II is one of the greatest fighting games ever made. The tension, the 'one hit can kill' philosophy, the beautiful Neo Geo sprites—it’s all here. But playing a frame-perfect fighter on a piece of glass is like trying to perform surgery with a spoon. It just doesn't feel right.

If you hook up a real controller, the score goes up, but as a mobile app meant for on-the-go play, it’s a struggle. The virtual joystick is finicky, and hitting precise button combinations is a roll of the dice. SNK did a decent job with the emulation, and the visuals still hold up remarkably well after 30 years. It’s a classic, but this isn’t the definitive way to play it. Still, I respect the purity of the port. They didn't fill it with modern microtransaction garbage, and that's a rarity these days.

Overall Stats

Pros & Cons

  • Timeless pixel art and sound
  • Deep, tactical combat system
  • No microtransactions
  • Touch controls are inadequate
  • No modern online lobby system
  • Minor audio emulation glitches

Technical Report

Performance: Rock-solid 60fps; however, the audio can sometimes crackle during heavy action.

Accessibility:
  • Button Mapping
  • Scanline Filters

Audience Fit

Buy if: You have a Bluetooth controller and appreciate arcade history.

Skip if: You only play with touch controls or want modern 3D graphics.

Similar Games:
  • King of Fighters '98
  • Street Fighter IV CE

Reviewer Context

  • Reviewer: Dinsun
  • Hardware: iPhone 15 Pro + Backbone One
  • Playtime: 10 hours
  • Status: Cleared Arcade Mode with Haohmaru

The Game

Available on: iPhone, iPad, iPod

Version 1.2.1Tue Apr 19 2022

Compatible with iOS14 or higher


Spread the word and don't miss out on this unique opportunity to play "SAMURAI SHODOWN II" with your friends!

SAMURAI SHODOWN II, the sword-based fighting game masterpiece has finally cut its way to iOS devices!

Slash the powerful adversaries standing in your path, and put a stop to Mizuki Rashojin's evil ambitions!

Features:

The fan favourite installment in SNK's highly acclaimed series!

The 2nd episode of the SAMURAI SHODOWN Series, is still beloved by fans of the series all across the world.

Preserving the charm of the first game, its sequel brings the characters, world, and game system to the next level.

An incredible cast of 15 charismatic master swordmens head to the battlefield in order to fulfill their destiny.

Haohmaru, Nakoruru, Ukyo Tachibana, Hanzo Hattori, Jubei Yagyu, and the rest of the 11 original characters return.

Genjuro Kibagami, Cham Cham, Neinhalt Sieger, and Nicotine Caffeine come into play to complete the cast as the newcomers!

A new and expanded move list! Disarm your rivals by unleashing a Weapon Smash Attack!

Forward Somersault, Backward Flip, Crouch, and even more moves have been added. A Weapon Smash can be performed when your Rage Gauge reaches its MAX!

Finesse, or brute force? Let your hidden techniques express your fighting style!

A perfect port of this NEOGEO classic, adding new features for an even better experience!

In addition to the original 4 button arcade experience, a 6 button layout and SP button allow you to easily pull off strong slashes and special moves by simply using the Touch Screen!

Challenge your friends via Wi-Fi!

Dual with your friends in a match through Wi-Fi Multiplayer Mode!


Requires iOS 14.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Spread the word and don't miss out on this unique opportunity to play "SAMURAI SHODOWN II" with your friends!

SAMURAI SHODOWN II, the sword-based fighting game masterpiece has finally cut its way to iOS devices!

Slash the powerful adversaries standing in your path, and put a stop to Mizuki Rashojin's evil ambitions!

Features:

The fan favourite installment in SNK's highly acclaimed series!

The 2nd episode of the SAMURAI SHODOWN Series, is still beloved by fans of the series all across the world.

Preserving the charm of the first game, its sequel brings the characters, world, and game system to the next level.

An incredible cast of 15 charismatic master swordmens head to the battlefield in order to fulfill their destiny.

Haohmaru, Nakoruru, Ukyo Tachibana, Hanzo Hattori, Jubei Yagyu, and the rest of the 11 original characters return.

Genjuro Kibagami, Cham Cham, Neinhalt Sieger, and Nicotine Caffeine come into play to complete the cast as the newcomers!

A new and expanded move list! Disarm your rivals by unleashing a Weapon Smash Attack!

Forward Somersault, Backward Flip, Crouch, and even more moves have been added. A Weapon Smash can be performed when your Rage Gauge reaches its MAX!

Finesse, or brute force? Let your hidden techniques express your fighting style!

A perfect port of this NEOGEO classic, adding new features for an even better experience!

In addition to the original 4 button arcade experience, a 6 button layout and SP button allow you to easily pull off strong slashes and special moves by simply using the Touch Screen!

Challenge your friends via Wi-Fi!

Dual with your friends in a match through Wi-Fi Multiplayer Mode!


Ratings & Reviews

2.8 out of 5 with 260 Counts
Age Rating 13+

Screenshots

SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 1SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 2SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 3SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 4SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 5SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 6SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 7SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 8SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 9SAMURAI SHODOWN II screenshot 10

Samurai Shodown II is the acclaimed sequel to the weapon-based fighting game that took the world by storm. Featuring a refined 'Rage' system and the introduction of weapon-breaking moves, this entry offers deep tactical combat. Choose from 15 unique characters and battle through gorgeous stages inspired by feudal Japan. This mobile version includes customizable button layouts and Bluetooth controller support for the ultimate arcade experience.

Features

1

15 Legendary Fighters

2

Authentic Arcade Graphics

3

External Controller Support

4

Customizable Touch Controls

Tips

Promotion Videos

iOS / Android "SAMURAI SHODOWN 2" Trailer - YouTube

Related Videos

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Gameplays

Q&A

Yes, you can battle friends via local Bluetooth connection.

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