Basara

Basara, whose also known as "Basara the Executioner" (首切り 破沙羅, Kubikiri Basara), is a character who was first introduced in Samurai Shodown III. He continues to appear in other titles of the series.

Story
He is a type of yūrei "reborn" due to an extreme hatred he harbored before his death. In his previous life, Basara lived in peace with his wife, Kagaribi, until the monstrous demonic swordsman Zankuro came through and slaughtered everyone. He blames "the demon" for his wife's demise but, in Samurai Shodown V, it is revealed that Basara himself killed her.

In Samurai Shodown III, he remembers how he died and thus aimlessly seeks to take revenge on Zankuro. However, Zankuro is already slain by the time he finds him. Having no reason to remain, Basara searches for ways to finally rest in peace. In Samurai Shodown IV, he discovers that his "rebirth" is caused by Amakusa, so he heads for Shimabara to kill him. After Amakusa's defeat, a vision of Kagaribi lures his soul to be captured and sealed away by Mizuki.

Personality
Basara was a man happy with his life of peace. All that remained from his previous life, however, was his love for his wife and his hatred for Zankuro. Aside from these attributes, he is a mindless killer who doesn't discriminate the murders of his victims.

Powers

 * Soul of Nue - Basara can release a Will-o'-the-wisp (a ghost light) from his chest that tracks his opponents. Nue is a Japanese chimera that causes nightmares.
 * Shadow Powers - Basara can disappear and reappear into his own shadow, using this ability for transportation and unexpected attacks. He also can drag others with him.
 * Illusions - Basara can emit a mirror image of himself for a short time, which eventually dissipates into a swarm of bats.

Although Basara's powers are explained mainly through his ghost abilities, they also resemble powers usually identified with ninja. This is complimented by Basara's weaponry and design which are also associated with ninja.

Fighting Style
Some of his powers are based in the use of his shuriken, as well as demonic powers like moving and disappearing into the shadows or release balls of energy. His normal attacks are adaptable to execute, easily ranging from close to mid-screen and often hitting for several hits upon impact. His distinguishing features are his a shrill laugh and claiming life to be "a beautiful nightmare".

Music

 * Sanzu no Nageki (Lament of Three Desires) - Samurai Shodown III

Game Appearances

 * Samurai Shodown III
 * Shinsetsu Samurai Spirits: Bushidou Retsuden - as an optional boss and guest character
 * Samurai Shodown IV
 * Samurai Shodown V
 * Samurai Shodown V Special
 * Samurai Spirits: Tenkaichi Kenkakuden