Ninja Gaiden 2 Black Image
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81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews What's this?

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  • Summary: Take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja who has inherited the legendary “Dragon Sword” and takes on battles across the world, in this graphic remaster of the popular high-speed ninja action title that returns after 15 years.

    1. The world of “NINJA GAIDEN 2” remastered with rich visuals.
    Take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja who has inherited the legendary “Dragon Sword” and takes on battles across the world, in this graphic remaster of the popular high-speed ninja action title that returns after 15 years.

    1. The world of “NINJA GAIDEN 2” remastered with rich visuals.
    The stages, characters, effects, and lighting have been completely redesigned and remastered to provide realistic visuals. Unreal Engine 5 has been utilized to create stunning current-generation graphics, allowing players to immerse themselves more deeply in the story's world.

    2. High-speed x violent action further evolved with the latest graphic expressions.
    Gore elements such as dismemberment and blood have been remastered to enhance the action experience. Players can enjoy high-speed, violent action using a wide variety of weapons and techniques, including Japanese swords, shurikens, Kusari-gamas, and tonfas.
    Note: The dismemberment feature can be toggled on and off in the Options menu.

    3. Additional characters, mode for beginners, and elements from subsequent spin-off titles are also included.
    This remaster includes additional elements from spin-off titles released after the original. Players can control three additional characters: Momiji, Ayane, and Rachel. The game also includes "HERO PLAY STYLE" mode that provides automatic support in challenging situations, making it accessible for those who may not be confident in their action skills.
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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 15
  2. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Feb 13, 2025
    95
    Ninja Gaiden II Black is absolutely the definitive way to play the classic and challenging title. With the stigma of how Unreal Engine 5 can treat modern releases, it is outstanding to see a game utilize the technology to recreate something lots of people have fond memories of that runs seemingly flawlessly. With availability on all modern platforms and the inclusion of its release on Xbox Game Pass, everybody has the chance to play it. Other than the camera still being quite whack, it’s a genuine must-play, especially if you’ve never had the chance before now.
  2. Jan 29, 2025
    85
    While the name may be slightly misleading, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is a fantastic way to experience one of the best action games ever made.
  3. Jan 31, 2025
    85
    Ninja Gaiden 2 Black isn't quite the definitive edition of Team NINJA's second entry in the series, but it comes close. While Ryu Hayabusa no longer faces overwhelming hordes of enemies, the game's intensity, deep combat mechanics, excellent enemy variety, greatly overhauled visuals, and solid level design make it one of the best ways to experience one of finest action games ever released, performance issues notwithstanding.
  4. Jan 29, 2025
    80
    Ninja Gaiden II Black is not only an excellent remaster, but it also sets the stage for the future of the series with Ninja Gaiden 4 on the horizon. The new features and improvements provide a glimmer of hope that Team Ninja understands what makes the series special, while the technical upgrades make it more accessible than ever for new players.
  5. Feb 27, 2025
    80
    If this game would have used Ninja Gaiden 2 as a starting point with "Black" as a refinement, it could have been the ultimate version. Unfortunately,it's a heavily reworked take on Sigma 2, missing not only some bosses from Sigma but also key elements from the original NG2, such as enemy placement and their strength. What remains intact is the series' signature, unparalleled gameplay, keeping it among the must-play action titles; if not for the existence of Itagaki’s Ninja Gaiden 2, which remains superior and unmatched.
  6. Jan 30, 2025
    80
    Ryu Hayabusa returns with a good remaster operation, maintaining the intense and brutal combat system of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. The difficulty is more accessible and the new graphics made in Unreale Engine 5 are great, but there are still historical issues like the camera and some content missing compared to Sigma 2.
  7. Jun 3, 2025
    72
    Ninja Gaiden 2 Black looks good, but doesn't give the impression of the definitive version at all.

See all 15 Critic Reviews