Crimson Katana: exA Label is a fresh take on Cave's sidescrolling arcade shooter Akai Katana incorporating elements from its Xbox 360 port. In addition to its several game modes, this release features several bonus options available in all game modes. A soundtrack selection menu lets players choose between the original arcade soundtrack, the Xbox 360 arranged soundtrack, or a new FM synth arranged soundtrack created by Keishi Yonao. A loop selection option lets players choose to begin from the harder second loop instead of from the beginning of the game. When played in English, dialogue is now subtitled for the first time.
Set in a parallel world resembling Japan’s Taisho period, people have discovered the power of Crimson Katanas. Requiring human sacrifices to unleash their immense destructive power, these weapons have been used by the empire to crush neighboring countries. However, all of the bloodshed and power gained through sacrificing close family members has made some of the warriors reconsider their usage. With new fighter planes and the powered up katanas at their disposal, this small band of rebels now fight back against the tyrannical empire.