SAMURAI SHODOWN II vs its rivals

Side-by-side comparison against SAMURAI SHODOWN II's closest competitors — identity, store metrics, ratings & sentiment, and strategic intel.

Core Identity
DeveloperSNK CORPORATIONCAPCOMAutumn GamesNekki LimitedKabam Games, Inc.Warner Bros.Warner Bros.Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc.
CategoryGamesGamesGamesGamesGamesGamesGamesGames
PlatformiOSiOS, AndroidAndroid, iOSiOS, AndroidiOS, AndroidiOS, AndroidiOS, AndroidiOS, Android
Store Metrics
Rating2.8 / 54.8 / 54.8 / 54.7 / 54.7 / 54.6 / 54.5 / 54.8 / 5
Ratings Count26021,18167,770207,380694,692171,211150,456789,540
PriceUSD2.99$4.99FreeFreeFreeFreeFreeFree
Release DateJun 27, 2013Jul 12, 2017Jan 17, 2018Nov 16, 2017Dec 10, 2014May 9, 2017Apr 7, 2015May 31, 2018
Last UpdatedApr 19, 2022Sep 16, 2025May 1, 2026Apr 16, 2026Apr 6, 2026Jan 22, 2026Apr 15, 2026Mar 30, 2026
Sentiment & Reviews
Sentimentterriblemixed--mixedmixedmixedmixed
Score25/10065/100--54/10055/10058/10052/100
Praises
  • Classic arcade fighting mechanics provide authentic nostalgic value for long-term fans of the series
  • Core fighting mechanics and character roster depth provide a nostalgic and engaging experience for long-time fans
--
  • Character Variety and Roster
  • Engaging Gameplay and Graphics
  • DC Franchise Appeal
  • Visuals and Graphics
  • Gameplay Longevity
  • Combat and Gameplay Mechanics
  • Visuals and Graphics
Complaints
  • Unresponsive touch controls and oversized button layouts render the game unplayable on modern mobile devices
  • Incomplete external controller support causes input failures and unexpected application exits during active matches
  • Unstable online multiplayer connectivity leads to frequent disconnections and match interruptions during real-time combat sessions
--
  • Game-Breaking Technical Bugs
  • Aggressive Monetization (Pay-to-Win)
  • Technical Instability and Crashes
  • Aggressive Monetization
  • Poor Performance and Loading Times
  • Connectivity and Server Issues
  • Device Overheating
  • Pay-to-Win Monetization
  • Poor Gacha Drop Rates
  • Technical Issues and Lag
Requests
  • Comprehensive update to support modern screen aspect ratios and external controller hardware compatibility
  • Implementation of a robust offline mode to allow single-player gameplay without constant server verification
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Strategic Intel
Strengths
  • Authentic NEOGEO arcade combat mechanics sustain long-term fan interest
  • High-fidelity arcade move sets mirror console experiences
  • SP button lowers entry friction for casual players
--
  • Massive roster of 350+ Champions
  • Deep Alliance/Social infrastructure
  • Authentic Marvel IP integration
  • High-quality console-level graphics and cinematic story mode
  • Deep character customization via Gear and Artifact systems
  • Strong DC IP integration with recognizable characters and synergies
  • Iconic 30-year IP with massive brand recognition
  • High-fidelity visual payoffs (Brutalities/Friendships)
  • Deep roster of 150+ characters including guest fighters
  • Powerful global IP (Dragon Ball) with 400+ characters.
  • Unique real-time 3D card-action mechanics optimized for mobile.
  • Original story content featuring exclusive Akira Toriyama designs.
Weaknesses
  • Unresponsive touch controls prevent basic gameplay on modern hardware
  • Incomplete external controller support triggers application crashes
  • Persistent online connectivity requirement for single-player modes
  • Broken purchase restoration flow
  • 0.55★ rating gap between iOS and Android
--
  • Critical 'black screen' rendering bugs
  • Strong 'Pay-to-Win' user perception
  • Aging 2D combat engine
  • Severe technical instability (crashes in Solo Raids)
  • Slow UI performance and long loading times
  • Perceived 'pay-to-win' mechanics in the Artifact system
  • Persistent server and connectivity issues
  • Severe device overheating during gameplay
  • Unreliable cloud-save/account synchronization
  • High 'Pay-to-Win' perception among the player base.
  • Persistent server lag and technical issues in PvP matches.
  • Frustratingly low gacha drop rates for top-tier 'Ultra' units.
Pricingpaidfreemiumfreemiumfreemiumfreemiumfreemiumfreemiumfreemium
MomentumZombieMaintenance--ActiveSteadyActiveMaintenance
Update Cadence4 versions2 versions, ~7d avg--4 versions, 2 majors/6mo, ~14d avg5 versions, 3 majors/6mo, ~65d avg5 versions, 2 majors/6mo, ~16d avg3 versions, ~22d avg

Compare SAMURAI SHODOWN II head-to-head

Disclosure: Independent intel to help mobile builders succeed.

AI-powered analysis with editorial review, built from publicly available sources. Marlvel.ai is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by SAMURAI SHODOWN II, its developer, the app publisher, Apple, or Google Play. All trademarks, logos, and screenshots referenced remain the property of their respective owners.

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