The Samurai Shodown V game returns seven years after the fourth installment in the series. In its time frame, this is considered the earliest game, hence the Japanese title Samurai Spirits Zero . The game takes place in 1786 from January through the later summer, making it a prequel to the series.
The gameplay has been slightly altered. It is a little faster, and the Slash/Bust system has been removed. Each character now has only one version, or the Bust mode is simply replaced by a new character of very similar setup. Combo slashes, sidestepping, and fatalities have also vanished. The basic moves are modeled after the first games in the series, consisting of three types of slashes, a single kick, and various dodge maneuvers.
There are 24 characters in the game, a familiar cast with some new faces. Unlike previous games, it is not possible to kill your opponent.