Nakoruru

Nakoruru is featured as a player character in most game entries in the Samurai Shodown series. She is also playable in various mobile spin-off titles, such as endless runner Samurai Shodown Slash,{{cite web |url=http://www.siliconera.com/2014/09/29/samurai-shodown-slash-turns-snks-fighting-game-series-runner/ |title=Samurai Shodown Slash Turns The SNK's Fighting Game Series Into A Runner |publisher=Siliconera |date=2014-09-29 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151002115635/http://www.siliconera.com/2014/09/29/samurai-shodown-slash-turns-snks-fighting-game-series-runner/ |archive-date=2015-10-02 |url-status=dead }} action game Samurai: Rougetsuki Densetsu,{{Cite web|url=http://www.appbank.net/2018/05/01/iphone-application/1540978.php|title=『サムライスピリッツ』新作は和風アクション。佐倉綾音、福山潤など人気声優を起用【侍魂：朧月伝説】|website=AppBank – iPhone, スマホのたのしみを見つけよう|language=ja|access-date=2018-07-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180729230355/http://www.appbank.net/2018/05/01/iphone-application/1540978.php|archive-date=2018-07-29|url-status=live}} and rising simulation Maid by Iroha. In the series, Nakoruru is a gentle and shy teenage girl serving Mother Nature as a shamanic priestess of the Ainu religion, born on Hokkaido island in 1771. Despite her usually pacifistic ways, she became a Kamui warrior of her peaceful village Kamuikotan (神居古潭) after the death of her idolized father, and continues to fulfill this role throughout the series, fighting evil, often alongside the character Haohmaru. She is killed in the second game in the series, sacrificing herself to restore the balance of nature. She eventually merges her soul with Gaia and becomes "the holy spirit who wanders through time" in a form that resembles a koro-pok-guru.

In Samurai Shodown: Warriors Rage, the spirit of Nakoruru is an unplayable story mode character, but its PocketStation mini game is centered around her. She also featured as a non-player character mentor to the protagonist in the spin-off game, Nakoruru: Ano Hito kara no Okurimono, a 2001 visual novel adventure game which takes place between the first two games in the series.{{cite web |author=文● 編集部 桑本美鈴 |url=http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/321/321281/ |title=ASCII.jp：『ナコルル～あのひとからのおくりもの～』の専用ホームページがオープン |publisher=Ascii.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007073705/http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/321/321281/ |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=dead }}

Nakoruru fights with a treasured ceremonial makiri (a type of Ainu dagger or short sword sometimes known as "Ainu kodachi") called the Chichi-ushi (チチウシ, Father Bull). Depending on the form, she is aided by either a mountain hawk-eagle{{Cite book|title=Samurai Spirits Zankuro Musoken Official Guidebook|publisher=Yubunsha|year=1996}} named Mamahaha (ママハハ, in her "Slash" form) or a cross between Hokkaido wolf and Siberian wolf named Shikuru (シクルゥ, in her "Bust" form), also having other animal friends.{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2010/03/missus_raroo_says_falling_in_l.php |title=GameSetWatch Missus Raroo Says: Falling in Love with Samurai Shodown II For All the Right Reasons |publisher=Gamesetwatch.com |date=2010-03-11 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924040350/http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2010/03/missus_raroo_says_falling_in_l.php |archive-date=2015-09-24 |url-status=live }} Her powers include communicating with nature,{{cite web |url=http://www.snkplaymore.co.jp/us/games/kof-xiv/teams/another.php |title=THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV | PlayStation®4 |publisher=Snk Playmore |access-date=2016-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905154218/http://www.snkplaymore.co.jp/us/games/kof-xiv/teams/another.php |archive-date=2016-09-05 |url-status=live }} fueling her blade with ki energy, ability to reflect a projectile back to its sender using her cloak, and healing wounds with the power of nature. American ninja Galford D. Weller is in love with her.{{cite web |url=http://www.vgmuseum.com/end/neogeo/a/samur2galf.htm |title=Ending for Samurai Shodown 2-Galford(Neo Geo) |publisher=Vgmuseum.com |access-date=2015-10-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150918172558/http://www.vgmuseum.com/end/neogeo/a/samur2galf.htm |archive-date=2015-09-18 |url-status=live }}Galford: "ALWAYS LOVE YOU, Nakoruru......GO, Poppy!" {{cite video game|title=Samurai Spirits 2: Asura Zanmaden |developer=SNK |publisher=SNK |date=1998-10-16 |platform=Hyper Neo-Geo 64 |language=ja}} The endings for Samurai Shodown VI revealed that Nakoruru and an alter-ego of Galford traveled the world together.{{cite web|url=http://www.fightabase.com/charStory.aspx?id=1332&gId=97|title=Rasetsu Galford|publisher=Fightabase|access-date=2016-03-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414145650/http://www.fightabase.com/charStory.aspx?id=1332&gId=97|archive-date=2016-04-14|url-status=live}}

In The King of Fighters series, Nakoruru has appeared in a playable capacity in multiple games in the series in various non-canon roles. She also appeared as a non-playable character in The King of Fighters '94 Re-Bout, The King of Fighters 2000 (as a Special Striker for Yuri Sakazaki),{{cite web |last=Kalata |first=Kurt |url=http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/kof/kof.htm |title=The King of Fighters |publisher=Hardcore Gaming 101 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929032408/http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/kof/kof.htm |archive-date=2015-09-29 |url-status=live }} The King of Fighters 2002: Unlimited Match, and The King of Fighters XIII (in the Japan stage{{cite web |url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2010/08/post_26.html |title=お楽しみ：ステージデザインの巻 | THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIII オフィシャルブログ |publisher=Game.snkplaymore.co.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311154224/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/kof-xiii/blog/archives/2010/08/post_26.html |archive-date=2016-03-11 |url-status=dead }} and in the Android/iOS versions as a tutorial instructor{{cite web |url=http://octoba.net/archives/20130904-android-app-kof2012-215851.html |title=THE KING OF FIGHTERS-A 2012 : 喰らいぃぃぃやがれぇ！！簡単操作で爽快なコンボを繰り出せ！Androidアプリ | オクトバ |publisher=Octoba.net |date=2013-09-04 |access-date=2015-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007022702/http://octoba.net/archives/20130904-android-app-kof2012-215851.html |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=dead }}).

Nakoruru made her canonical playable debut in The King of Fighters XIV, as the leader{{cite web |url= https://www.gematsu.com/2016/08/king-fighters-xiv-another-world-team-gameplay-trailer |title= The King of Fighters XIV 'Another World Team' gameplay trailer |website= Gematsu |date=2016-08-11 |access-date=2024-04-01 |last= Romano |first= Sal}} of the "Another World Team."{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/SNKPofficial/status/724538229047717888 |title="NAKORURU" & game story's key character "SHUN'EI" revealed in new KOF XIV's Trailer |publisher=G-Mantle (ゲーマント） Twitter Account |date=2016-04-25 |access-date=2016-04-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170614190138/https://twitter.com/SNKPofficial/status/724538229047717888 |archive-date=2017-06-14 |url-status=live }} Nakoruru senses a new terrible evil known as Verse arriving through rifts in space and time. Nakoruru travels to the present and teams up with other characters to defeat Verse. Nakoruru returns as a playable character in SNK All-Star, in which she and other characters from games set in the past awaken in the modern world and must team up with character Kyo Kusanagi in a fight to seal away the King of Fighters series antagonist Orochi.{{Cite web|url=https://gematsu.com/2019/03/fighting-rpg-snk-all-star-announced-for-smartphones|title=Fighting RPG SNK All-Star announced for smartphones|date=2019-03-07|website=Gematsu|language=en-US|access-date=2019-04-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190430142108/https://gematsu.com/2019/03/fighting-rpg-snk-all-star-announced-for-smartphones|archive-date=2019-04-30|url-status=live}}

Nakoruru is playable in the fighting games Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Fight 2000 (as an unlockable secret character{{cite web |author=Gavin Jasper |url=http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/street-fighter/256899/street-fighter-the-violent-history-of-akuma |title=Street Fighter: The Violent History of Akuma |publisher=Den of Geek |date=2016-07-15 |access-date=2016-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160920173943/http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/street-fighter/256899/street-fighter-the-violent-history-of-akuma |archive-date=2016-09-20 |url-status=live }}), Capcom vs. SNK 2, SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium (as rival of Capcom's Morrigan Aensland), Neo Geo Battle Coliseum,{{cite web |url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/nbc/gallery/nakoruru.html |title=NEOGEO BATTLE COLISEUM【NAKORURU】 |publisher=Game.snkplaymore.co.jp |access-date=2015-10-01 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310044701/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/nbc/gallery/nakoruru.html |archive-date=2016-03-10 |url-status=live }} SNK Gals' Fighters, and SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy. She is also playable in various SNK games such as Neo Geo Tennis Coliseum,{{cite web|url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/mobile/i-mode/special/ntc.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070914231530/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/mobile/i-mode/special/ntc.php |archive-date=2007-09-14 |title=Neogeo Tennis Coliseum |date=2007-09-14 |access-date=2015-10-01|language=ja}} Quiz King of Fighters,{{cite web |url=http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/kof/kof9.htm |title=The King of Fighters |publisher=Hardcore Gaming 101 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151103103256/http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/kof/kof9.htm |archive-date=2015-11-03 |url-status=live }} and The Rhythm of Fighters.{{cite web |url=http://www.destructoid.com/review-the-rhythm-of-fighters-277252.phtml |title=Review: The Rhythm of Fighters |publisher=Destructoid.com |date=2014-06-27 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151002084404/http://www.destructoid.com/review-the-rhythm-of-fighters-277252.phtml |archive-date=2015-10-02 |url-status=live }}

Nakoruru has also made collaboration event appearances in many portable and mobile games, including AFK Arena, Dai Shingeki RPG! Sister Quest,{{Cite news|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/300/G030012/20151204144/|title=「大進撃RPG！シスタークエスト」イベントに「サムスピ」のチャムチャムが参戦|work=4Gamer.net|access-date=2018-05-18|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518130226/http://www.4gamer.net/games/300/G030012/20151204144/|archive-date=2018-05-18|url-status=live}} Dark Avenger X,{{Cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201809/10163787.html|title=『サムライスピリッツ』完全新作が発表！ 覇王丸、ナコルル、十兵衛、ガルフォードなどの姿が【PSLineUp】【動画・画像追加】|website=ファミ通.com|date=10 September 2018 |language=ja|access-date=2019-04-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190430132116/https://www.famitsu.com/news/201809/10163787.html|archive-date=2019-04-30|url-status=live}} Granblue Fantasy,{{Cite news|url=https://app.famitsu.com/20170106_938601/|title=『グラブル』×『サムライスピリッツ』コラボ開催決定！ 覇王丸とナコルルが参戦 [ファミ通App]|work=ファミ通App|access-date=2018-05-15|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107063354/https://app.famitsu.com/20170106_938601/|archive-date=2017-11-07|url-status=live}} The King of Fighters All Star, Kingdom Story: Brave Legion,{{Cite news|url=https://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/305719/Kingdom_Story_X_Samurai_Shodown_Round_2.php|title=Kingdom Story X Samurai Shodown Round 2!|work=Gamasutra|access-date=2018-05-18|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518195813/https://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/305719/Kingdom_Story_X_Samurai_Shodown_Round_2.php|archive-date=2018-05-18|url-status=live}} Kal Kal Kal All Together,{{cite web|url=http://kal.joycity.com/html/etc/gameinfo.html|title=다같이 칼칼칼|publisher=Kal.joycity.com|language=ko|access-date=2015-10-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306060226/http://kal.joycity.com/html/etc/gameinfo.html|archive-date=2016-03-06|url-status=live}} Kotatsu Mikuni Kansai Senki,{{Cite news|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/375/G037538/20170915032/|title=「ごっつ三国 関西戦記」で「サムライスピリッツ零SPECIAL」コラボ第2弾が開催|work=4Gamer.net|access-date=2018-05-15|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516103659/http://www.4gamer.net/games/375/G037538/20170915032/|archive-date=2018-05-16|url-status=live}} Might & Magic: Elemental Guardians,{{Cite web|url=https://news.ubisoft.com/en-us/article/341862/Samurai-Shodown-Characters-Join-Might-Magic-Elemental-Guardians|title=Samurai Shodown Characters Join Might & Magic Elemental Guardians|website=news.ubisoft.com|language=en|access-date=2019-04-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190430134632/https://news.ubisoft.com/en-us/article/341862/Samurai-Shodown-Characters-Join-Might-Magic-Elemental-Guardians|archive-date=2019-04-30|url-status=live}} The Samurai Kingdom,{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamer.ne.jp/news/201610050059/|title=iOS/Android「戦乱のサムライキングダム」サムライスピリッツとのコラボが開催！覇王丸やナコルルたちがドット絵で登場｜Gamer|website=www.gamer.ne.jp|language=ja|access-date=2018-05-18}} Honor of Kings (Wangzhe Rongyao),{{cite web|url=http://www.tuwan.com/shouji/wzry/315915/|title=【王者荣耀娜可露露】英雄解析 背景故事介绍_兔玩网|publisher=Tuwan.com|access-date=2016-08-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160911014806/http://www.tuwan.com/shouji/wzry/315915/|archive-date=2016-09-11|url-status=live}} Yamato Chronicle,{{Cite news|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/368/G036865/20170116012/|title=「ヤマトクロニクル覚醒」で「サムライスピリッツ」とのコラボが実施|work=4Gamer.net|access-date=2018-05-18|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518130317/http://www.4gamer.net/games/368/G036865/20170116012/|archive-date=2018-05-18|url-status=live}} and You Are the Hero!.{{Cite news|url=https://g123.jp/gnews/post-25074|title=【君はヒーロー】「サムライスピリッツ」コラボ開催！「覇王丸」や「ナコルル」がガチャに登場|date=2017-11-01|work=G123.JP-新作ゲームアプリ攻略|access-date=2018-05-15|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516174130/https://g123.jp/gnews/post-25074|archive-date=2018-05-16|url-status=live}} In Blade Smash she was redesigned as a ninja,{{Cite web|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/415/G041528/20181026094/|title=サムスピコラボ開幕！ "ニンジャ"を世界に向けて発信する「ブレイドスマッシュ」開発者インタビュー|website=www.4gamer.net|language=ja|access-date=2019-04-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190430134327/https://www.4gamer.net/games/415/G041528/20181026094/|archive-date=2019-04-30|url-status=live}} while in Lost Saga she was made optionally male as well female.{{cite web|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/088/G008877/20130613097/|title=「LOST SAGA」にサムスピの「ナコルル」が6月20日から参戦。お供の鷹，ママハハと連携して攻撃を繰り出す|date=2013-06-13|publisher=4Gamer.net|language=ja|access-date=2015-10-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007041547/http://www.4gamer.net/games/088/G008877/20130613097/|archive-date=2015-10-07|url-status=live}}

Nakoruru is furthermore a non-player character in the dating sims Days of Memories: Oedo Love Scroll and Kaze Maiu Miyako de Tsukamaete!, and has a cameo of Rera as Nakoruru in Sekai de Ichiban Atsui Fuyu.{{cite web|url=http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/dom/dom3/index.php|title=Days of Memories 〜大江戸恋愛絵巻〜：デイズ オブ メモリーズ|date=2007-10-25|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071025031520/http://game.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/dom/dom3/index.php|archive-date=2007-10-25|access-date=2015-10-01}}{{cite web|url=http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/game/docs/20060518/dom.htm|title=SNKプレイモア、「サムライスピリッツ」の恋愛シミュレーション、iモード「Days of Memories 〜大江戸恋愛絵巻〜」|publisher=Watch.impress.co.jp|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081008180423/http://watch.impress.co.jp/game/docs/20060518/dom.htm|archive-date=2008-10-08|url-status=dead|access-date=2015-10-01}}{{cite web|url=http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/daysofmemories/daysofmemories.htm|title=Days of Memories|last=Kalata|first=Kurt|publisher=Hardcore Gaming 101|access-date=2015-10-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927222712/http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/daysofmemories/daysofmemories.htm|archive-date=2015-09-27|url-status=live}} She appears in cards in SNK Dream Battle{{cite web|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/150/G015014/20120312039/|title=― ソーシャルカードゲーム「SNKドリームバトル」，3月下旬にGREEで配信予定。本日から事前登録を受付，登録者には限定レアカードをプレゼント|date=2012-03-26|publisher=4gamer.net|language=ja|access-date=2015-10-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007040552/http://www.4gamer.net/games/150/G015014/20120312039/|archive-date=2015-10-07|url-status=live}} and SNK vs. Capcom Card Fighters DS.{{cite web|url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20061201/svc.htm|title=SNKプレイモア、DS「SNK VS. CAPCOM カードファイターズDS」FALCOON氏とゲームキャラクタによる解説ムービーを配信|publisher=Game.watch.impress.co.jp|language=ja|access-date=2015-10-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007083150/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20061201/svc.htm|archive-date=2015-10-07|url-status=live}} She also appears as a spirit in Nintendo's Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, where a Mii Fighter costume based on her is available as downloadable content.{{Cite web|url=https://metro.co.uk/2019/11/06/terry-bogard-dlc-coming-super-smash-bros-ultimate-today-11052278/|title=Terry Bogard DLC coming to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate today|date=2019-11-06|website=Metro|language=en|access-date=2020-01-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206170003/https://metro.co.uk/2019/11/06/terry-bogard-dlc-coming-super-smash-bros-ultimate-today-11052278/|archive-date=2019-12-06|url-status=live}}

Nakoruru appears in an anime film Samurai Shodown: The Motion Picture and in an anime OVA miniseries Nakoruru: Ano Hito kara no Okurimono (as titular lead character) and Samurai Spirits 2: Asura-Zanmaden (appearing along with Rera in both OVAs), also making a cameo in Fatal Fury: The Motion Picture (in a cosplay of Reiko Chiba{{cite web |url=http://logmi.jp/121975 |title=オタクなアイドルの元祖千葉麗子がゲームにハマったきっかけ - ログミー |work=ログミー[o_O] |publisher=Logmi.jp |date=2014-06-20 |access-date=2016-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206232557/http://logmi.jp/121975 |archive-date=2016-02-06 |url-status=live }}), as well as in a number of manga releases (including as a co-protagonist of Kyoichi Nanatsuki and Yuki Miyoshi's adaptation of the first Samurai Shodown, which was serialized in the West in an American magazine Game On!).{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/stream/GameOn06Oct1996/Game_On_06_Oct_1996#page/n17/mode/2up/ |title=Game On! 06 Oct 1996 |date=1996-10-06 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406153315/https://archive.org/stream/GameOn06Oct1996/Game_On_06_Oct_1996#page/n17/mode/2up/ |archive-date=6 April 2016 |url-status=live }} She is also featured in several of the series' drama CDs and is a member in SNK's character image band, Band of Fighters,{{cite video |title=KOF Live Party 02 BRIGHT FLY! |url=http://dv.ouou.com/play/v_e399e80ba13e9.html |format=flv |access-date=2008-01-13 |time=0:31 |quote=Harumi Ikoma as Nakoruru: "Hey, we should sing that song!" |language=ja |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080118070140/http://dv.ouou.com/play/v_e399e80ba13e9.html |archive-date=2008-01-18}} starring in her own character image CD.{{cite web |url=http://vgmdb.net/db/albums.php?id=3478 |title=PCCB-00269 | SNK Characters Sounds Collection Volume 2 ~ Nakoruru |publisher=VGMdb |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080423231629/http://vgmdb.net/db/albums.php?id=3478 |archive-date=2008-04-23 |url-status=live }}

Nakoruru further shows up in pachinko slot machine systems, including prominently in "Samurai Spirits"{{cite web |url=http://slot.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/samurai_kengou/ |title=サムライスピリッツ～剣豪八番勝負～|パチスロ|SNKプレイモア |publisher=Slot.snkplaymore.co.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007074807/http://slot.snkplaymore.co.jp/official/samurai_kengou/ |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }} and especially "Samurai Spirits Oni (Nakoruru)".{{cite web |author=サムライスピリッツ鬼（覇王丸） |url=http://www.slot-ace.jp/shopdetail/002010000031/ |title=サムライスピリッツ鬼（ナコルル） | スロット（メーカー一覧）, SNKプレイモア | スロットエース |publisher=Slot-ace.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007091543/http://www.slot-ace.jp/shopdetail/002010000031/ |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=dead }} She has dozens{{cite web |url=http://myfigurecollection.net/encyclopedia/3556_nakoruru |title=Nakoruru ‹ Characters ‹ Encyclopedia |publisher=MyFigureCollection.net |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151002072854/http://myfigurecollection.net/encyclopedia/3556_nakoruru |archive-date=2015-10-02 |url-status=live }} of figurines made in her image,{{cite web |author=藤山 哲人 |url=http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/094/94736/ |title=ASCII.jp：【脱げない伝説の崩壊】もう後戻りできないっ！ ナコルル解体新書【かなり貴重！】 (1/6) |publisher=Ascii.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007095214/http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/094/94736/ |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20050909/srss.htm |title=ユージン、SNKプレイモアの「サムスピ」カプセルフィギュア「SR サムライスピリッツ」を発売 |publisher=Game.watch.impress.co.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007103309/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20050909/srss.htm |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.gamer.ne.jp/news/201303130012/ |title=【ワンダーフェスティバル2013［冬］】企業ブースフォトレポートその4―メガハウスブースなどのフィギュアを紹介｜Gamer |publisher=Gamer.ne.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007102638/http://www.gamer.ne.jp/news/201303130012/ |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/356/356952/|title=ASCII.jp：「サムライスピリッツ 天下一剣客伝」のメイド剣士「いろは」のご奉仕フィギュア発売|date=2006-12-16|publisher=Ascii.jp|language=ja|access-date=2015-10-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007073820/http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/356/356952/|archive-date=2015-10-07|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://kk1up.jp/archives/20171110_maxfactory.html|title=【フィギュア】懐かしの「美少女フィギュア」過去作が一挙展示＝マックスファクトリー30周年展示会 {{!}} 1UP情報局【ワンナップ】秋葉原＆アキバ系ニュース・エンタメ情報|date=2017-11-10|work=1UP情報局|access-date=2018-07-29|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180729230452/https://kk1up.jp/archives/20171110_maxfactory.html|archive-date=2018-07-29|url-status=live}} and even a life-size figure,{{cite web |author=藤山 哲人 |url=http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/089/89938/index-3.html |title=ASCII.jp：百花繚乱！ 美少女等身大フィギュアが一挙30体Over!! in 東京アニメセンター 1体目 (3/6) |publisher=Ascii.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007091136/http://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/089/89938/index-3.html |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }} also being featured in various other merchandise{{Cite news|url=https://j-mag.org/2018/03/19/snkpopup_news/|title=リョウ・サカザキからナコルルまで！3/26より『SNK POP-UP SHOP in Shibuya LOFT』が期間限定OPEN|date=2018-03-19|work=JMAG NEWS - マンガ、アニメ、ゲームの分かりやすいニュースサイト|access-date=2018-07-29|language=ja}} such as T-shirts,{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/news/201009/07033149.html |title=コスパブースでは100メガショックなグッズが満載！【TGS2010】 - ファミ通.com |website=Famitsu.com |date=2010-09-07 |access-date=2016-02-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160214221354/http://www.famitsu.com/news/201009/07033149.html |archive-date=2016-02-14 |url-status=live }} and in an American collectible card game Universal Fighting System. Keeping in key with her nature-loving persona, Nakoruru was used as a mascot for SNK's environmental awareness campaigns conducted together with city administrations in Mitaka and Kyoto in 1994.{{Cite book | date=September 20, 2005 | editor=Akihiko Ureshino | title=The King of Fighters Perfect Reader | pages=130~131 | language=ja | publisher=Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. | isbn=4-8222-1711-6}} In 2007, SNK Playmore also created a social action program for children using Nakoruru and the Fatal Fury star Terry Bogard as their mascots.{{Cite journal |last=Spiker |first=Christina M. |date=2020 |title=The Indigenous Shôjo: Transmedia representations of Ainu femininity in Japan's Samurai Spirits, 1993–2019 |url=https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/items/116642 |journal=Journal of Anime and Manga Studies |volume=1|doi=10.21900/j.jams.v1.502 |hdl=2142/108994 |hdl-access=free }} An image of praying Nakoruru was used to support the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami relief fund-raising.{{cite web |author=金本太郎 |url=http://www.kotaku.jp/2011/03/jishin_nakoruru.html |title=大自然の祈り。白井影二さんの『侍魂』ナコルル応援イラスト ｜ コタク・ジャパン |publisher=Kotaku.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304120432/http://www.kotaku.jp/2011/03/jishin_nakoruru.html |archive-date=2016-03-04 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://gamez.itmedia.co.jp/games/articles/1103/15/news073.html |title=日々是遊戯：アマテラスやロックマンも日本を応援！ ゲーム・アニメ関係者から寄せられた応援イラストまとめ - ITmedia Gamez |publisher=Gamez.itmedia.co.jp |date=2011-03-15 |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150914213226/http://gamez.itmedia.co.jp/games/articles/1103/15/news073.html |archive-date=2015-09-14 |url-status=live }}

The series' creator Yasushi Adachi chose "the two flagship characters" Haohmaru and Nakoruru as the characters that best sum up the series, with Nakoruru being "a main character in the storyline who has to fight for her life and her destiny, and sacrifices herself in the end to preserve an important cause," and thus representing "some of the most important Samurai Shodown themes."{{Cite journal|title=The Mini SNK Companion|journal=Retro Gamer|volume=187}} The idea for the character came from a modern Japanese perception of the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido, being depicted as revering nature and peacefully coexisting with it. Before the Samurai Spirit project began, one of Nakoruru's creators had thought that "one day Ainu women should have a first-class appearance" in a video game as he thought they have had received too little attention and representation in modern media.{{Cite journal|title=Samurai Spirits|journal=Gals Island 3: Monthly Gemesuto April Special Issue|publisher=Shinseishiya}}

Her costume design was based on Ainu clothing (in two main versions depending on the length of her skirt) and she was supposed to mix a concept of a "petite girl with a lovely appearance and personality" with an "innovative" character performance of commanding a hawk companion in battle.{{cite web |url=http://neogeomuseum.snkplaymore.co.jp/whats/ |title=What'S "Neogeo"? | Neogeo Museum |publisher=Neogeomuseum.snkplaymore.co.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309203552/http://neogeomuseum.snkplaymore.co.jp/whats/ |archive-date=2016-03-09 |url-status=live }} Although Nakoruru was not directly modeled after any particular existing character, Hilda from The Great Adventure of Horus, Prince of the Sun and Kamui from The Dagger of Kamui helped her conception process. The girl that appears during Nakoruru's entrances in Capcom vs. SNK is one of her childhood friends introduced in Nakoruru: Ano Hito kara no Okurimono, Manari.{{cite web |url=http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/samuraishodown/samuraishodown8.htm |title=Samurai Shodown |publisher=Hardcore Gaming 101 |access-date=2015-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224151044/http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/samuraishodown/samuraishodown8.htm |archive-date=2015-12-24 |url-status=live }} Nakoruru was notably the first fighting game character brought back to life following her demise{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=9116190 |title=Retronauts: 1UP's Classic Gaming Blog : Back to Life |publisher=1up.com |access-date=2015-10-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206233115/http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=9116190 |archive-date=2016-02-06 |url-status=dead }} and one of the first who used a sidekick character in gameplay.

File:Purple Nakoruru.png

Nakoruru is a rather petite girl that is 153 cm tall.{{cite web |url=http://www.snkplaymore.co.jp/us/games/kof-xiv/characters/nakoruru.php |title=THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV | PlayStation®4 |publisher=Snk Playmore |access-date=2016-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905153945/http://www.snkplaymore.co.jp/us/games/kof-xiv/characters/nakoruru.php |archive-date=2016-09-05 |url-status=live }} An alternate, palette swap version of her with tanned skin, different colors of hair and eyes, and a bigger chest is the Bust Nakoruru (羅刹ナコルル, Rasetsu Nakoruru) or EX Nakoruru, a recurring "Easter egg" type character that eventually evolved into Rera. Popularly known as {{nihongo|Purple Nakoruru|紫ナコルル|Murasaki Nakoruru}}, she is a crueler and cockier version of Nakoruru, more violent about fulfilling her mission to protect nature, and her companion is Shikuru the wolf. In the 1999 anime film Samurai Spirits 2: Asura Zanmaden, Rera tries to support her host in giving up fighting for a while, but eventually she understands Nakoruru in what has to be done to help Shiki. Nakoruru leaves to help Shiki, but not before Rera warns her that if she doesn't succeed, she will kill her host. Rera later appears at the end of the film telling Nakoruru to be safe on her journey. In the fan service oriented fighting game SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy, Nakoruru appears as default in a "sexy vampire" costume with a bat as her animal,{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamer.ne.jp/news/201801290015/|title=ヴァンパイアコスチュームのナコルルが登場！PS4/Nintendo Switch「SNKヒロインズ Tag Team Frenzy」最新トレーラーが公開｜Gamer|last=Gamer|website=www.gamer.ne.jp|language=ja|access-date=2018-05-15}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/219905/20180130/samurai-shodown-s-nakoruru-makes-appeareance-in-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-trailer.htm|title=Samurai Shodown's Nakoruru Makes {{as written|Appea|reance [sic]}} In SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy Trailer|last=Cannon|first=William|date=2018-01-30|work=Tech Times|access-date=2018-05-15|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516103351/http://www.techtimes.com/articles/219905/20180130/samurai-shodown-s-nakoruru-makes-appeareance-in-snk-heroines-tag-team-frenzy-trailer.htm|archive-date=2018-05-16|url-status=live}} while in The King of Fighters XIV she can be dressed up in a modern schoolgirl uniform of the "Kamuikotan Private High School".{{Cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201701/27125686.html|title=『ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ XIV』ナコルルの女子校制服とシュンエイの修行道着が配信開始 - ファミ通.com|website=ファミ通.com|date=27 January 2017 |language=ja|access-date=2018-05-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516104013/https://www.famitsu.com/news/201701/27125686.html|archive-date=2018-05-16|url-status=live}}

To compensate for Nakoruru's short weapon range, players must rely on her speed to punish their opponents' mistakes. Nakoruru's strengths lie in her air supremacy (including aerial throws) and ability to jump around the sides of the screen.MAXIMUM The Video Game Magazine issue 3 (January 1996) pages 50-52. She can also recover from her moves a little quicker than other characters, making it easier for her to hit-and-run during fights. To balance her out with the rest of the cast, her attack strength is slightly weaker than most fighters. Her move set usually incorporates slightly longer ranged attacks that project her or her animal companions to her foes so her attack range is not limited to her sword. Since Samurai Shodown II, she can also reflect projectiles with the move "Kamui Ryusei".Electronic Gaming Monthly issue 66 (January 1995) page 242. Mamahaha can be used by the player to attack opponents in a diagonal aerial attack, acting as Nakoruru's projectile and anti-air defense. The player may also command Nakoruru to use him as a mount for a limited time. Whilst she is in the air, players can command the pair to hover higher, drop, or use Nakoruru to attack foes; she may do so normally from Mamahaha's height or players may choose to drop her in a swirl attacking motion or use a diagonal nosedive attack. Her moves' names are written in Hokkaido Ainu.

Prior to Samurai Shodown V Special, Nakoruru and Rimururu have been the series' two characters notable for being immune to the Fatality-like bloody killing moves.{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/stream/Tips_Tricks_Volume_IV_Issue_3_1997-03_LFP_US/Tips__Tricks_Volume_IV_Issue_3_1997-03_LFP_US#page/n13/mode/2up/ |title=Tips & Tricks - Volume IV Issue 3 (1997-03)(LFP)(US) |date=March 1997 |access-date=2015-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408041215/https://archive.org/stream/Tips_Tricks_Volume_IV_Issue_3_1997-03_LFP_US/Tips__Tricks_Volume_IV_Issue_3_1997-03_LFP_US#page/n13/mode/2up/ |archive-date=2016-04-08 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |author=小暮ひさのり |url=http://www.kotaku.jp/2013/07/samurai_spirits.html |title=おこなの？ 激おこなの？ あの『真SAMURAI SPIRITS』がスマホに移植！ ｜ コタク・ジャパン |work=コタク・ジャパン |date=4 July 2013 |publisher=Kotaku.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007042640/http://www.kotaku.jp/2013/07/samurai_spirits.html |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news|url=https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/review/1119507.html|title=【名作発掘】「アケアカNEOGEO サムライスピリッツ 天草降臨」レビュー シリーズ屈指の異色作「サムスピ 天草降臨」を怒り爆発でプレイ!! アケアカNEOGEO サムライスピリッツ 天草降臨|date=2018-04-27|work=GAME Watch|access-date=2018-07-29|language=ja-JP|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180729230418/https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/review/1119507.html|archive-date=2018-07-29|url-status=live}} In Samurai Shodown: Edge of Destiny, Mamahaha does not appear in fights except in special moves.{{cite web |url=http://worthplaying.com/article/2010/4/24/reviews/73862/ |title=Xbox 360 Review - 'Samurai Shodown Sen' |publisher=Worthplaying |access-date=2015-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007132035/http://worthplaying.com/article/2010/4/24/reviews/73862/ |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }} The presence of monkeys in Nakoruru's stage in the original Samurai Shodown was a mistake of the background designer Tomoaki Fukui which confused many fans as there are no monkeys on Hokkaido.{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/4/10/15223966/the-making-of-samurai-shodown|title=The making of Samurai Shodown|work=Polygon|access-date=2018-05-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170531085606/https://www.polygon.com/2017/4/10/15223966/the-making-of-samurai-shodown|archive-date=2017-05-31|url-status=live}} There have been attempts to add Nakoruru into the series The King of Fighters already during the 1990s: a "Samurai Spirits Team" was originally scheduled to participate in The King of Fighters '95 and The King of Fighters '96 as Nakoruru was intended to team up with Galford and Haohmaru.{{Cite web|url=https://news.denfaminicogamer.jp/nicolive/181115a|title=SNK全盛期の開発現場を、当時のクリエイターが振り返る。40周年記念の笑いが絶えない座談会|website=電ファミニコゲーマー – ゲームの面白い記事読んでみない？|date=15 November 2018 |language=ja|access-date=2019-04-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190430131712/https://news.denfaminicogamer.jp/nicolive/181115a|archive-date=2019-04-30|url-status=live}}

File:Cosplayers of Nakoruru and Rimururu, Samurai Spirits at PF24 20160507.jpg

Nakoruru has frequently been described as being among the most popular characters associated with SNK since her debut, with her popularity stemming from her design, motifs, and her Ainu heritage. Variations of the character have been introduced in the series since, which has caused many debates over which one is the most popular.{{Cite web |title=SNKの格ゲーヒロイン「ナコルル」 "派閥"が分かれるほど愛される人気の理由 |url=https://magmix.jp/post/64180 |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=マグミクス |language=ja}} The character has been well-received worldwide, becoming especially popular in Japan.{{cite web |author=ジョン・カミナリ （芸名） |url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/series/wayofthe/20130712_607054.html |title=「電遊道」 〜Way of the Gamer〜。ジョン・カミナリの楽しいゲームライフ【第33幕】 |publisher=Game.watch.impress.co.jp |date=2013-12-07 |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007074248/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/series/wayofthe/20130712_607054.html |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20080215/snk.htm |title=SNKプレイモア、タイトーブースでプレス向け発表会を開催。「KOF '98UM」、「サムライスピリッツ閃」、「KOF XII」を公開 |publisher=Game.watch.impress.co.jp |access-date=2015-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007095259/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20080215/snk.htm |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |author=ライター：トリスター/田渕健康 |url=http://www.4gamer.net/ktai.php?url=/games/265/G026509/20140710103/ |title=携帯版 |publisher=4gamer.net |access-date=2015-10-06 |language=ja |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007040719/http://www.4gamer.net/ktai.php?url=%2Fgames%2F265%2FG026509%2F20140710103%2F |archive-date=2015-10-07 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/999/G999905/20171221042/|title=今，NEOGEO（ネオジオ）が熱い……と思う。一時代を彩ったNEOGEOの魅力を（ごく私的な視点で）振り返ってみる|access-date=2018-07-29|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180729230400/https://www.4gamer.net/games/999/G999905/20171221042/|archive-date=2018-07-29|url-status=live}} According to The King of Fighters XIV producer Yasuyuki Oda, this was a surprise, as no one at SNK had expected her to be as popular as she was.{{Cite news|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/317/G031749/20160613002/|title=新生SNKのモノ作りはここから始まる。「餓狼MOW2」の話題も飛び出した，「THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV」開発陣インタビュー |work=4Gamer.net|access-date=2018-05-15|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624221529/http://www.4gamer.net/games/317/G031749/20160613002/|archive-date=2016-06-24|url-status=live}} Nakoruru was added to 2016's KOF XIV due to her enduring popularity.{{cite web |author=株式会社インプレス |url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/interview/1013057.html |title=【インタビュー】中国で人気爆発！ 「KOF XIV」プロデューサー小田泰之氏インタビュー - GAME Watch |date=30 July 2016 |publisher=Game.watch.impress.co.jp |access-date=2016-08-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802161904/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/interview/1013057.html |archive-date=2016-08-02 |url-status=live }} Her popularity also resulted in some people in Japan becoming more interested in the modern Ainu people.{{Cite news|url=https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2018/07/13/116119.html|title=人と人を繋ぐゲームラブコメディ『ハイスコアガール』主人公とヒロインの絆を育んだ格闘ゲーム4選 {{!}} インサイド|work=インサイド|access-date=2018-07-29|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180729200605/https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2018/07/13/116119.html|archive-date=2018-07-29|url-status=dead}} She was named the best character of 1993 by the magazine Gamest,{{cite journal |script-title=ja:ベストキャラクター賞 |trans-title=Best Character Award |journal=Gamest |issue=107 |date=February 1994 |page=32 | language=ja | publisher=Shinseisha}} and she was also voted the most popular female character by male readers of Neo Geo Freak in 1997.{{cite magazine |magazine=Neo Geo Freak |title=Ranking |issue=27 |date=August 1997}} Nakoruru became particularly popular among cosplayers,Cocoro Books. Cosplay Girls: Japan's Live Animation Heroines. DH Publishing 2003.{{Cite web |title=NEOGEO mini（ネオジオミニ）発売記念 好きなキャラクター人気投票＆NEOGEO mini入ってほしかったゲームのアンケート結果を中間発表！ 1位はコイツで"オーケー！" - ファミ通.com |url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201807/05160468.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180705173649/https://www.famitsu.com/news/201807/05160468.html |archive-date=2018-07-05 |access-date=2018-07-29 |website=ファミ通.com |date=5 July 2018 |language=ja}}Player One issue 75 page 32. and in doujinshi fan-works.Masanao Amano, Julius Wiedemann. Manga Design, Volume 1 (Taschen, 2004). Page 384. Nakoruru's hawk, Mamahaha, was regarded as a "defining moment" of Samurai Shodown, with staff citing it as an early example of a "satellite character," which they considered innovative in fighting games.{{Cite journal |date=June 2018 |title=Classic Moments: Samurai Shodown |journal=Retro Gamer |volume=178 |pages=42}}

Nakoruru's ties to the culture of the Ainu people were described by the book as being an example of appropriation, with Nakoruru's popularity among fans being at odds with the struggles the Ainu people face. They additionally criticized Nakoruru as an example of how the Ainu were characterized as "something permanently located in the past," as well as how she was repeatedly "fetishized" in multiple forms of media, such as doujinshi.{{Cite book |last=Sheehan |first=Kendra N. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Os3GEAAAQBAJ&dq=%22Nakoruru%22+-wikipedia&pg=PA215 |title=Cross-Cultural Influences between Japanese and American Pop Cultures: Powers of Pop |date=2023-05-26 |publisher=Cambridge Scholars Publishing |isbn=978-1-5275-1282-5 |language=en}} "Christina M. Spiker, in the Journal of Anime and Manga Studies, analyzed Nakoruru's role in shaping the image of the Ainu people in popular culture. She argued that Nakoruru's popularity led to the spread of misinformation about the Ainu, especially through her portrayal in the shôjo genre, which distanced her from her Ainu roots. Spiker also critiqued the character's fetishization in doujinshi productions, emphasizing that while Nakoruru introduced Ainu culture to a broader audience, her depiction reinforced harmful stereotypes."

{{Reflist}}

• [http://samuraianiv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/nakoruru/index.php Nakoruru] and [http://samuraianiv.snkplaymore.co.jp/english/character/rera/index.php Rera] at Samurai Shodown official website

{{Samurai Shodown series|state=expanded}}

{{The King of Fighters characters}}

Category:Female characters in video games

Category:Fictional Ainu people

Category:Fictional characters from Hokkaido

Category:Fictional characters with alter egos

Category:Fictional characters with dissociative identity disorder

Category:Fictional Japanese people in video games

Category:Fictional miko

Category:Fictional swordfighters in video games

Category:Religious worker characters in video games

Category:Samurai Shodown

Category:Swordfighters in Japanese fiction

Category:Teenage characters in video games

Category:The King of Fighters characters

Category:Video game characters introduced in 1993

Category:Video game mascots