Iroha

Iroha (いろは) is one of the main characters and newcomers from Samurai Shodown VI. Her conception began due to a desire to add an amorous character. At first, she was designed to be a mostly nude character though eventually her image changed with "a graceful crane" and "Asian wife" motif. She is named after the Heian poem of the same name, which is a pangram need for mastering the hiragana syllabary. She is voiced by Mayumi Shindou.

She is a widely popular character in Japan, and appears in her very own Japan-exclusive mobile game titled Maid by Iroha. Another game focusing on her is coming soon to the Nintendo DS. She has also appeared as character in the Queen's Gate series, which is a successor to the fantasy game series, Lost Worlds. She also has some unique figurines, hard cast, and is otherwise made in her image.

Story
Iroha is actually a crane who can change into a human maiden. She obeys her master and thinks that he is the most essential thing in her entire life. Her master is speculated to be Andrew, but is most likely the player him/herself as she usually bows and speaks to the player at the start and end of her fights. Creators have confirmed this in an interview, adding that she is specifically talking to the male players.

Personality
Iroha is an obedient and cheerful maiden. She deeply cares for her master, trying her hardest to stay in her human form whilst in front of him.

Powers

 * Transformation - Iroha can change into her original shape whenever she needs.
 * Feather Projectile - Iroha can shoot a razor sharp feather.

Fighting Style
Iroha attacks with two butterfly swords and depends on her speed for close combat. She is the only character in the entire Samurai Shodown series who can double jump. Some of her moves, including her white feather projectile and standing pose, hint to her true identity. The most obvious reference is her super, where she grabs her opponent and, behind shoji doors, undresses and assaults her foe. During the move, her silhouette briefly changes into a crane.

Music

 * Yuzuru no Mai (Dance of the Evening Crane) - Samurai Shodown VI; performed by Maho Kayuri

Game Appearances

 * Samurai Spirits: Tenkaichi Kenkakuden
 * SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters Clash (third title only)

Mobile Appearances

 * Days of Memories (Ōedo Ren'ai Emaki, Kaze Maiu Miyako de Tsukamaete!) - unplayable
 * Maid by Iroha
 * Koi no Iroha ~Sakura Saku Haru~ - mobile game
 * Koi no Iroha ~Himawari Kagayaku Natsu~ mobile game
 * Koi no Iroha ~Momiji Iro Tsuku Aki~ mobile game
 * Koi no Iroha ~Sazanka Chiru Fuyu ~ mobile game
 * Moeyo! SNK Gals Osuin Katoukai