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Review of Samurai Deeper Kyo on PlayStation

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Dec 2002
Cover image of Samurai Deeper Kyo on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 12 Dec 2002
Genre: Fighting
Developer: Marvelous Entertainment
Publisher: Bandai

Introduction

Ever wondered what would happen if demons, samurai, and lots of ridiculously over-the-top sword fights collided in the Edo period? Well, some genius at Marvelous Entertainment said, 'Hold my sake,' and birthed "Samurai Deeper Kyo." This fighting game takes the popular manga of the same name and crams it into your trusty PlayStation for action-packed battles that will make you question your reflexes-and your sanity. Let's dive deep into Kyo's world to see if it really cuts it or if it's just a flashy mess without any real substance.

Gameplay

Samurai Deeper Kyo plays like a love child of Street Fighter and a history lesson that went a little too far off-script. You have a variety of characters from the manga, each with unique moves that include everything from flashy sword swings to super moves that suspend reality-because nothing says 'I'm a skilled warrior' like launching someone 20 feet in the air and having them come crashing down in slow-motion. The controls are responsive enough for beginners, even if you might find yourself accidentally performing Kyo's ultimate burning-sunset-dragon slash instead of a simple poke. And let's face it, the game's AI feels like it has a grudge against you-good luck trying to string together a combo against a CPU that reads your mind better than your ex. Player-wise, it allows for 1-on-1 fights filled with random flashy moves, ninja-like dodges, and extreme staring contests. Seriously, you could break some laws of physics here and still get an 'A' for effort.

Graphics

Graphically, the characters are well-rendered and look like they'd fit right in on a ramen shop's menu-each more colorful and dramatic than the last. The art style does a commendable job of translating the manga's aesthetic to the screen, albeit with some graphical hiccups that remind you you're playing a PS1 game. The backgrounds, however, might draw your eye-and it's not just because they're poorly executed. They sometimes feel more like wallpaper than living, breathing environments. But who cares about the scenery when you can slice your opponent into pieces while simultaneously flexing those absurdly bulging muscles?

Conclusion

In conclusion, Samurai Deeper Kyo isn't the most balanced fighter you'll ever play; in fact, it barely gets there without tripping over its own sword. The combat is a chaotic mix of familiarity and flamboyant ridiculousness, making it entertaining, if not a little frustrating at times. It serves as a fun distraction rather than a deep or meaningful fighting experience, much like that friend who shows up to parties just for the free snacks. For fans of the manga or those who love a bit of chaos in their brawlers, Kyo is an entertaining option amidst a sea of button-mashers. But if you're looking for a serious contender in the fighting genre, you might find more satisfaction elsewhere. Adjust your expectations accordingly, and get ready for the spectacle that is Samurai Deeper Kyo!

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