SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance: Ninja Stars and Nostalgia
A tale of revenge, platforming, and the occasional screen flash
Launch Day Larry
Welcome, fellow gamers, to the world of “SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance,” where the art is as sharp as a katana and the story is as old as time. This game promises a nostalgic trip down ninja lane, with a few modern twists and turns that might just leave you dizzy. Let’s dive into the shadows and see what this game has to offer.
Gameplay: A Balancing Act of Blades and Buttons
“SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance” delivers a gameplay experience that feels like a love letter to old-school arcade fans, with a few modern-day quirks thrown in for good measure. The controls are responsive and satisfying, allowing you to jump, dash, and unleash a flurry of attacks with the precision of a seasoned ninja. However, the sheer number of buttons might make you feel like you’re playing a piano concerto rather than a video game.
The combat system is a standout feature, offering a variety of tools and options that make each encounter feel fresh and engaging. It’s like a fighting game in disguise, with combos and special moves that will have you juggling enemies like a pro. Yet, as the game progresses, the introduction of new enemy types dwindles, leaving you to face the same foes over and over again.
Platforming, on the other hand, is a mixed bag. While some players find it fun, others criticize it for being too simple and lacking precision. The physics can feel slippery, leading to moments of frustration as you attempt to navigate the game’s parkour challenges. It’s a bit like trying to ice skate uphill—possible, but not without a few tumbles.
Graphics: A Visual Feast for the Eyes
If there’s one thing “SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance” excels at, it’s the graphics. The hand-drawn art style is nothing short of breathtaking, with each frame looking like it belongs in a gallery rather than a game. The dynamic 2D animation and vibrant colors create a world that feels alive, with ninjas appearing and disappearing in the background like whispers in the wind.
However, during large fights, the clarity of on-screen effects can diminish, making it difficult to keep track of the action. It’s a bit like trying to watch a fireworks display through a foggy window—beautiful, but hard to follow. The lack of ultrawide support at launch is a minor hiccup, but one that doesn’t detract too much from the overall experience.
Story: A Familiar Tale with a Few Twists
The story of “SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance” is as classic as they come, with Joe Musashi seeking vengeance after his village is attacked by evil forces. It’s a setup we’ve seen before, but it’s executed with enough authenticity to keep players engaged. The characters, from allies to villains, are memorable and distinctive, adding depth to the narrative.
While the story is described as thin and predictable, it doesn’t interfere much with the gameplay, allowing players to focus on the action. However, some players might find the constant tutorial prompts and unskippable mini-cutscenes a bit tedious, like a ninja who insists on explaining every move before making it.
Final Verdict
“SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance” is a game that shines in its combat and visual presentation, offering a nostalgic yet modern experience for fans of the genre. While it stumbles in areas like platforming precision and story depth, it remains a fun and engaging title that captures the essence of what makes ninja games so appealing. If you’re looking for a game that combines beautiful art with satisfying combat, this might just be the ninja adventure you’ve been waiting for.
Score: 7.5/10