Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Review - A Blade Sharp Enough to Cut Through the Competition
Gaming News is proud to present an in-depth review of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, the long-awaited return of a gaming icon. Developed by the talented teams at Lizardcube and Sega, this title promises a thrilling experience that honors the series’ legacy while embracing modern game design. We’ve spent countless hours with Joe Musashi on his quest for vengeance, exploring every meticulously crafted environment, mastering the fluid combat system, and pushing our skills to the limit. This review will dissect every facet of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, providing a comprehensive analysis that will help you decide if this title lives up to the hype.
A Legacy Reborn: The Context of Shinobi’s Return
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance arrives after a long hiatus, a period that saw the action-platformer genre evolve significantly. The franchise, once a staple of the Sega Genesis era, built its reputation on fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and a unique blend of ninja aesthetics and sci-fi elements. The challenge for Lizardcube and Sega was clear: to craft a game that satisfied both longtime fans eager for a faithful revival and a new audience unfamiliar with the series’ history. Did they succeed? Absolutely. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance doesn’t just pay homage to its predecessors; it elevates the formula, resulting in a gaming experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
The Oboro Clan’s Fury: A Narrative of Vengeance
The game’s narrative is a driving force, fueled by a tale of betrayal and revenge. The story follows Joe Musashi, the series’ iconic protagonist, as he sets out on a perilous journey. Lord Ruse, the ruthless leader of ENE Corp, has seized a powerful artifact and brutally attacked the Oboro Clan’s village. This act of aggression sets Musashi on a globe-trotting quest for vengeance, taking him through diverse and dangerous environments. The storyline is simple yet effective, providing a solid foundation for the game’s action-packed gameplay and the deep emotional investment it fosters.
A Stunning Visual Journey: Lizardcube’s Artistic Mastery
Lizardcube’s involvement is arguably the most exciting aspect for fans of the 2017 Streets of Rage 4 revival. Their previous work with retro franchises proved their mastery of modernizing classic game styles, and that expertise shines through in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. The game’s art style is a visual feast, with meticulously detailed environments that seamlessly blend painterly aesthetics with the frenetic action. The environments are the stars of the show, serving as a gorgeous backdrop to the superb action and exploration. From the tranquil beauty of the Oboro Clan’s village to the neon-lit streets of a sprawling metropolis and the desolation of a haunted desert, each location is brimming with detail and character. The artistic direction enhances the immersion, making every moment of the journey visually captivating.
Gameplay: Mastering the Art of the Ninja
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a masterclass in action-platforming. The game seamlessly blends precise platforming with a deep and rewarding combat system. It demands quick reflexes, strategic thinking, and a willingness to master Musashi’s impressive arsenal.
Fluid Movement and Precision Platforming
Musashi’s movement is a testament to tight controls and fluid animations. He controls like a dream from the moment you pick up the controller. Players can expect seamless traversal of each stage. Precision is key, as players must navigate challenging platforming sections while fending off enemies. This combination of speed and agility is essential to success. The level design complements the gameplay perfectly, challenging players to use Musashi’s abilities to their fullest potential. Every jump, wall climb, and slide feels responsive, making exploration and combat a joy.
Unleashing the Fury: The Combat System
The combat system is the heart and soul of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. It offers a deep and customizable experience that encourages players to experiment with different builds and strategies. The game allows for a personalized playstyle through four Ninpos and two build-modifying amulets equippable at a time. From the outset, players have access to a range of attacks, including swift sword strikes, powerful kunai throws, and the ability to execute devastating finishing moves. As players progress, they unlock new abilities, including devastating Ninpo attacks that can turn the tide of battle and powerful Ninjutsu arts.
Customization and Build Variety
One of the most impressive aspects of the combat system is its depth and customization. Players can tailor Musashi’s abilities to suit their playstyle, experimenting with different Ninpo techniques and amulet combinations.
The Execution Gauge and Finishing Moves
Strategic combat hinges on filling the execution gauge. Through skillful attacks, players can fill this gauge, ultimately allowing them to execute enemies with a satisfyingly violent finishing move. This mechanic not only adds a layer of tactical depth but also provides a visceral sense of accomplishment with each successful takedown.
The Importance of Exploration and Metroidvania Elements
While the game’s core gameplay is linear, the game incorporates Metroidvania elements. Stages are self-contained but feature branching paths, secrets, and hidden collectibles. Exploration is richly rewarded, with upgrades, new weapons, and challenging optional encounters scattered throughout the levels. This approach encourages players to explore every nook and cranny of the environment.
Delving Deeper: Game Mechanics and Features
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is more than just a stylish action game; it also features a wealth of gameplay features designed to keep players engaged for hours on end. These features add depth and replayability to the overall experience.
Upgrades and Collectibles: Rewarding Exploration
Collecting relics and unlocking new skills is a core component of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. The game encourages exploration by hiding upgrades, weapons, and secrets throughout its levels. These rewards are well-placed and provide a sense of accomplishment, encouraging players to revisit completed stages.
Challenging Boss Battles: Tests of Skill and Strategy
The boss battles are a major highlight, offering intense tests of skill and strategy. Each boss presents a unique challenge, requiring players to master their abilities, learn enemy attack patterns, and adapt their strategies. The difficulty is well-balanced, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment upon victory.
Replayability: Encouraging Mastery
The game’s replayability is high. Completionists will enjoy returning to stages with an expanded arsenal to find every last collectible. Players can also experiment with different builds and difficulty settings to refine their skills.
Technical Performance and Presentation
The technical aspects of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance are as polished as the gameplay. The game runs smoothly on all platforms. The visuals are stunning and the soundtrack complements the action perfectly.
Visuals and Art Direction: A Feast for the Eyes
As mentioned, Lizardcube’s visual prowess is in full display, offering detailed environments, fluid animations, and a distinctive art style. The game’s aesthetic is a major draw.
Sound Design and Soundtrack: A Harmonious Experience
The sound design and soundtrack are equally impressive. The score complements the action, enhancing the game’s atmosphere and emotional impact.
Performance on Different Platforms
The game delivers a consistent and polished experience on all platforms.
The Verdict: Is Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Worth Playing?
After meticulously analyzing every aspect of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, it’s clear that the game is a triumph. It delivers a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, honoring the legacy of the Shinobi franchise while embracing modern game design.
What We Loved
- Stunning Visuals: Lizardcube’s art style is simply breathtaking, creating a vibrant and immersive world.
- Fluid Combat: The combat system is deep, rewarding, and customizable.
- Precise Platforming: Musashi controls like a dream, making every movement a joy.
- Engaging Story: The narrative of vengeance provides a compelling reason to keep playing.
- Challenging Boss Battles: Each encounter offers a unique test of skill.
- Rewarding Exploration: Secret collectibles and upgrades encourage players to fully explore each stage.
Room for Improvement
- Lengthy Stages: The stages are lengthy and sometimes can overstay their welcome.
Final Score
Gaming News awards Shinobi: Art of Vengeance a score of 9.5/10.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a must-play for fans of action-platformers and a worthy entry in the series. It successfully revives a classic franchise while delivering a fresh and exciting experience for both returning fans and newcomers.