Shinobi: Art of Vengeance reboots the Shinobi series. This much-loved franchise hits the ground running with this epic, albeit clichéd experience. You’ll enjoy some classic Asian vibes as you slice, dice, and parkour your way through numerous levels. En route, you’ll encounter obstacles, enemies, and a host of familiar Metroidvania mechanics. Accordingly, it’ll appeal to a large audience.
This action platformer was developed by Lizardcube and published by Sega. It is a single-player game that has a story mode, arcade mode, and plenty of secrets to discover. The core action is repetitive, but this matters not. Slashing foes, sliding past fire, and climbing walls will thrill every player.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance tells a classic tale.
Revenge is a dish best served cold. Unfortunately, Joe Musashi didn’t get this memo, as he lost his shit. The ENE Corporation has decimated his village, and Lord Ruse plans for world domination. This angers the hard-as-nails warrior as he plans to seek revenge and thwart Ruse’s plans.
The story brilliantly punctuates every stage. Cartoon-style cutscenes highlight the plight of the villagers. Moreover, the gruff nature of Musashi cuts every foe short. The story is wonderfully told, and the pacing makes it easy to follow.
Fantastic mechanics.
Hack and slash combat dominates every encounter. Consequently, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is somewhat mindless. This isn’t a complaint, as I loved the smooth and frantic nature of each fight. On top of this, there are some glorious parkour moments as you climb up walls, dodge obstacles, and leap chasms.
As the game evolves, you learn new abilities and attacks. Ninpo magic allows Joe to enhance his already out-of-this-world strength. Alongside this, the hero can be equipped with amulets to heighten his powers further. 2 amulets can be equipped, and new items are found if you have an inquisitive mindset.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is great to look at.
The level design utilises the Metroidvania mechanics. Tunnels, secrets, and a labyrinthine world keep you on your toes. Moreover, a scene of death and destruction supports the despair and downturn of the protagonist. The developer has done an amazing job of creating a buttery smooth game with limited issues. Gamers will adore the seamless transitions between areas and the high-energy combat.
The audio supports the madness with its loud and hectic soundtrack. Aggressive sound effects dominate proceedings. Furthermore, I liked the voice-over work and the impressive acting. The Asian theme is nicely presented, and though it is clichéd, it is great to hear.
Smooth controls.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance could have been extremely complicated. Thankfully, the simple layout and detailed tutorial ensure that inexperienced gamers will not struggle. However, there is a nice layer of complexity for veteran players.
This layer of complexity pushes you as you explore secret areas and overcome elite forces. Additionally, there are plenty of secrets, rifts, and collectables to find. This enhances replay value and longevity. Moreover, the drip-fed mechanics make you return for more as each level opens up.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a great addition to the franchise.
The developer has done an amazing job with this game. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance incorporates many of the fantastic elements from a longstanding franchise. Fans will adore the maze-like world and fast-paced combat. Newcomers will enjoy the story, setting, and easy-to-understand controls. Accordingly, it is fantastic, and I recommend buying it here! Can you get your revenge? Explore the world, learn new skills, and defeat Lord Ruse!
