Featuring music by Psykosonik, a funky pop-metal-rap band, X-Kaliber 2097 puts players in the role of Slash, who must thrust, parry, slice, and swipe his way through a dark future world of mutants, morphs, and other bad guys. The sword can also release a bolt of super-powerful energy, which leaves the player vulnerable as it slowly moves across the screen. Eventually, Slash will face his twin brother, who wields a sword as powerful as the X-Kaliber. In addition to the standard side-scrolling slash-'em-up game, the cartridge contains a two-player, one-on-one fighting game in which gamers select from a variety of interesting fighters with a pleasingly offbeat assortment of attacks and weapons. For example, Tattoo uses his rose tattoo for special attacks while Kane fights using a top hat and cane. Neither game is a standout in its respective genre, but solid gameplay, realistic graphics, and a killer soundtrack make the package worthwhile.