Following the revitalization of SNK after its collapse in 2001, the company decided that it would be worthwhile to create another game in the largely-defunct Samurai Shodown series.

Word finally got out that the game was to be a true prequel to the rest of the series, taking place two years before Samurai Shodown.

GameSpot said "This 2D fighting game is a real blast from the past, but its big cast of fairly interesting characters and its online play can make it worthwhile for NeoGeo fans.

"[3] IGN said "It's got lots of moves, a deep fighting system, and the online play is a big plus, but it really isn't that enjoyable in the end.

[citation needed] Metacritic rated the Xbox version of the game 58% based on 29 critics, indicating "mixed or average reviews".