Samurai Shodown comes to the Xbox in this fifth installment, offering fans a host of new additions while holding fast to its roots. Of the new features, most notable is the inclusion of Xbox Live support, allowing gamers to test their swordsmanship and overall samurai abilities against friends. Players can choose from 26 characters, nine of which make their debut in this installment. Another enhancement is the ability to meditate during battle, which affects the player's stats while slowing down an opponent's attack. In addition, those who prefer bare-knuckles over hardened steel can throw down their weapons and fight unarmed.