Character
Ha-Oh Maru
Haohmaru is the main protagonist of SNK's Samurai Shodown fighting game franchise, debuting in the original 1993 game.
About
Haohmaru is a wandering samurai and the signature character of the Samurai Shodown fighting game series by SNK. He appears as a playable fighter in titles such as Samurai Shodown (1993), Samurai Shodown II (1994), Samurai Shodown III (1995), and Samurai Shodown V Special (2004). Armed with his katana, Fugudoku, his design and rivalries are heavily inspired by the legendary historical swordsman Miyamoto Musashi.
Within the narrative arc of the Samurai Shodown franchise, this character's journey centers on the pursuit of self-improvement through dueling, constantly seeking stronger opponents. In Samurai Shodown V (1993), his early trials are depicted, establishing his brash demeanor and his signature sake jug, which he uses both to buff his weapon and as a tactical tool in combat. His mechanical evolution continued through Samurai Shodown (1994) and Samurai Shodown (1995), where his moveset expanded to include high-damage slash attacks and defensive parries that defined the high-risk, high-reward pacing of the series.
By the release of Samurai Shodown V Special (2004), his status as the mechanical benchmark of the franchise was firmly cemented, featuring refined frame data and devastating Overkill moves. Throughout these specific entries, his presence serves as the narrative anchor against various supernatural threats, such as Amakusa and Mizuki. His enduring legacy is reflected in his crossover appearances in other fighting game properties, representing the weapon-based combat system pioneered by these classic releases.
Connections
Explore
Tap a bar to narrow the games below. Tap to switch to that page.
Platforms (1)
By decade (2)
Developers (1)
Publishers (1)
Games featuring Ha-Oh Maru (3)
Include special editions
