Shikuru

Shikuru (シクルゥ) is Nakoruru's wolf companion introduced in Samurai Shodown III who acts as an exclusive helper to Nakoruru's Rasetsu/Bust form and eventually Rera. His name has no meaning and was chosen based on sound and character.

Story
Shikuru started accompanying Nakoruru when her darker personality started to surface. Sharing sentiments with Rera, he is often found following her around.

Personality
Somewhat more colder and ruthless than Nakoruru's other animal companion Mamahaha. He however remains loyal to her cause.

Powers

 * Charge - Shikuru can perform charges against opponents.

Fighting Style
Unlike other pets, Shikuru serves primarily as Nakoruru/Rera's battle mount. Shikuru is a necessity for several of his master's special moves, as having her travel on him is a great emphasis to mastering her form of gameplay. Whilst Nakoruru/Rera mounts him, the player can run faster and jump longer distances -at the sacrifice of a lower height. If their opponents attempt to attack, the player can quickly counter with Shikuru's rush attack, which may also launch Nakoruru/Rera after the blow for increased damage. Players may be handicapped, however, due to the heavy reliance put on mounting Shikuru. For instance, Nakoruru/Rera cannot mount him if he is too far away from her and when she is in the process of mounting him, she remains temporarily vulnerable to any attack.

Game Appearances

 * Shinsetsu Samurai Spirits: Bushidou Retsuden
 * Samurai Shodown III
 * Samurai Shodown IV
 * Samurai Shodown V
 * Samurai Shodown V Special
 * Samurai Shodown VI - playable with Mamahaha in the console version only
 * Samurai Shodown 64
 * Samurai Shodown 64-2
 * Nakoruru: Ano Hito kara no Okurimono

Cameo Appearances

 * Days of Memories (third title)
 * Samurai Spirits (pachinko)

Anime Appearances

 * Samurai Spirits 2: Asura-Zanmaden (OVA)
 * Nakoruru ~Ano hito kara no okurimono~ (OVA)