Shadow Asura

Shadow Asura (反面のアスラ, Hanmen no Asura) is the Rasetsu/Bust form of Asura. He is considered to be a separate character from his other half as he plays a different role in the series. Literally he has no name, but was named "Hanmen no Asura" (Another Asura) after original Asura, however in english version of games he refered as Shadow Asura. He is voiced by Kazuya Ichijo.

Story
Shadow Asura is a clone of Asura created by Yuga using a forbidden technique. For some time during the plot of Samurai Shodown 64, this clone was completely loyal to Yuga but wavered when he realizes his affections for Shiki. He comes to love Shiki and wants to save her from her former master. Subsequently, he and his original band together and kill Yuga. However, upon Yuga's defeat, he begins to deteriorate because Yuga's magic is what kept him alive. For the sake of his clone, the two Asuras merge together and turn into one unique being. Before he merges with his original, Shiki gives birth to their child.

It's later mentioned in Warriors Rage that he was the "true" Asura, as he had the emotions and thoughts of the original. He is supreme ruler of the Underworld and has seven kings in his service.

Personality
Shadow Asura was once as loyal as any of Yuga's servants until he meets Shiki. Emotionally conflicted, he eventually chooses his love for Shiki over his duties.

Powers

 * Darkness - Shadow Asura can use the powers of darkness inherited from his creator.
 * Energy Beam - Shadow Asura can shoot a purple beam of energy to his foes.
 * Complete Darkness - Shadow Asura create a dark void, making the battlefield pitch black.
 * Shadow Attack - Shadow Asura can extend his shadow and use it to attack his foes.
 * Electricity - Shadow Asura can conduct electric pulses. He can also summon a lightening bolt to appear at will.
 * Energy Slash - Shadow Asura can fuel his weapon with ki energy. It can also create a rippling mirror effect with each swing.

Fighting Style
Shadow Asura relies on the dark magicks given to him by his master, sharing of some of Yuga's moves. He is a close to mid-ranged fighter with attacks that are slightly quicker than his original counterpart.

Music

 * Slasher Demon - Samurai Shodown 64-2

Game Appearances

 * Samurai Shodown 64-2

Cameo Appearances

 * Samurai Shodown: Warriors Rage - in Mikoto's ending

Similar Characters

 * Asura
 * Yuda

Trivia

 * The name of his weapon (Vimukti) is a sanskrit term which refers to liberation of soul from endless cicle of suffering and rebirth(samsara) inside the Six Realms/The Wheel of Life through realisation of Four Noble Truths. Soul then attains enlightement and can proceed to Four Noble Worlds outside the Wheel, which is essentially an aim of all buddhists. Thus, as Shadow Asura slays enemy with his sword it symbolises the liberation of enemy's soul.