First Cut: Samurai Duel

Side-scrolling sword duels where a single strike can kill

Night Eyes Interactive · Released Jan 17, 2024

Reviews: Very Positive; 88% of 2,067
Recent reviews: Mostly Positive; 75% of 41 in 30 days
Playing now: 8; right now
Steam Deck: Verified
Last update: 1 month ago; Aug 14, 2026

What is First Cut: Samurai Duel?

This 2D sword-fighting game is set in feudal Japan. You aim your blade to block and strike, then parry, dodge, or shove opponents in fights that can end with one hit. Fight custom AI opponents, survive waves of enemies, hunt enemies in a Scenario campaign, or duel another player locally.

For you if...

+you like fast sword fights decided by a single hit
+you want local duels and customizable fighters
+you enjoy practicing parries and timing against AI

Not for you if...

−you need direct online multiplayer rather than local duels
−you dislike repeated deaths in difficult solo fights
−you prefer sword fights without blood and dismemberment

What players say

88% of 2,067 reviews are positive · 75% of 41 in the last 30 days

Players praise the simple swordplay, visuals, and local duels. The most common complaint is that AI opponents react too quickly and can feel unfair; some players also want direct online multiplayer.