opponents at once. Kenji has a basic set of moves that are available with all weapons, consisting of a regular attack, a strong attack, a block, and a kick. There are numerous variations and combinations of the basic moves available depending on the particular sword equipped at the time. By defeating opponents or collecting special items Kenji can also unlock special attacks and combinations specific to each weapon. There are also several different fighting stances, depending on the particular sword equipped, each of which comes with its own fighting style. This is the only installment in the series so far that offers a versus mode for 2 players. Sword enhancement Each of the swords available in the game has several attributes which influence its effectiveness in battle. These attributes can be enhanced using special items found, or by visiting the in-game swordsmith. Sharpness: Attack strength, increases/decreases the amount of damage caused when an opponent is struck with the sword Flexibility: Defensive strength, increases/decreases the amount of damage suffered when the player is struck by an opponent Durability: Sword strength, increases the amount of heat the sword can generate before breaking (heat is generated by striking or blocking, and displayed using an on-screen meter) Life: Increases/decreases the total number of the players hit points. Reception The game received above-average reviews according to the review aggregation website Metacritic. In Japan, Famitsu gave it a score of 31 out of 40. References External links Acquire page 2002 video games Action-adventure games Eidos Interactive games Kadokawa Dwango franchises Multiplayer and single-player video games PlayStation 2 games PlayStation Network games PlayStation Portable games Video games set in the 19th century Video games about samurai Video games developed in Japan Video games scored by Noriyuki Asakura Video games set in feudal Japan Video games with alternate endings Video games with historical settings Acquire (company) games