Vampire Savior 2: The Lord of Vampire (Japan 970913)

Vampire Savior 2: The Lord of Vampire is a fast-paced two-player fighting game released by Capcom in 1997. Fifteen distinct characters battle to end the reign of Jedah, striving for their own salvation amidst supernatural conflict. Players utilize an eight-way joystick and six buttons per controller to execute various attacks and special moves unique to each fighter, from Felicia’s weapon strikes to Donovan's transformative abilities. The game features hidden character unlocks achieved through skillful play, along with a variety of selectable modes that alter gameplay conditions and character attributes—such as Shoul Mode or the inclusion of characters not typically available. Despite its complex narrative and unique roster, Vampire Savior 2 exists outside the established timeline of Capcom's Darkstalkers series due to retcons and alterations made during development, including the unexpected return of previously removed characters. The game’s intro sequence showcases a rapid montage of character sketches, offering a glimpse into the initial design concepts that ultimately shaped the final roster. Though not considered part of the main canon, Vampire Savior 2 remains an intriguing entry in Capcom's fighting game legacy, showcasing inventive gameplay and a distinctive visual style built upon the CPS-II hardware platform.