| Aka: | Samurai Spirits III - Zankurō Musōken |
| Console: | Neo Geo CD |
| TV Standard: | Region Not Set |
| Developer(s): | SNK |
| Publisher(s): | SNK |
| Release Date: | 1995-12-29 |
| Players: | 2 |
| Co-op: | No |
| ESRB: | T - Teen |
| Type: | Fighting |
It is the third game in SNK's Samurai Shodown series of fighting games. While it is the third game in the main series, it is the first part of a two-chapter story that is chronologically set between the events of Samurai Shodown and Samurai Shodown II.
The game has a darker aesthetic compared to its predecessors. All characters consequently underwent a visual makeover to match this new tone. The humor that characterized the series made way for a more somber and gritty feel. Along with the aesthetic overhaul came significant changes in the gameplay with introduction of two selectable versions of each character: "Slash" (chivalry) and "Bust" (treachery). Each version comes with its own moves and fighting styles; Slash is closer to the first two games, while Bust is a more aggressive style that introduces new moves.
Controls were also updated; a new layout dedicates three of four buttons to weapon attacks and one for kicking attacks, as opposed to two buttons for weapons and kicks each. Tactical changes include priority for special moves as well as replacing the free movement system with a more restrained parry system.
