Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

 PC
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 38 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 34 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 38
  3. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. IGN Deutschland
    Aug 25, 2025
    70
    Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is an audiovisual marvel and feels magical to play. Sadly, it is held back by its bloated structure and repetitive fights that never quite manage to challenge you up until the very end.
  2. DBLTAP
    Aug 25, 2025
    70
    I honestly did enjoy my time with it, but for every bit of praise I can offer, a complaint comes attached. The combat is fun and has a strong sense of flow, but it isn’t particularly challenging, and the complexity doesn’t scale well. The platforming tools make for enjoyable and satisfying challenges, but the game infrequently uses them to their full potential. If you’re looking for a side-scrolling action platformer, then Shinobi will absolutely scratch that itch, just don’t go into it looking for a genre revolution.
  3. Gamekult
    Aug 25, 2025
    70
    For their first solo outing, Lizardcube delivers a slick comeback for Joe Musashi, with sharp attacks and ninja techniques, somewhat brought down by inconsistent level design and a few technical issues. The studio's unbeatable visual flair beautifully enhances the adventure. A sequel would certainly improve on these excellent core features to really soar above the competition.
  5. GamesRadar+
    Aug 25, 2025
    60
    Fantastic controls make an incredible first impression, and an execution-driven battle mechanic gives combat a unique feel. Unfortunately, the level design can't keep up with the quality of the basic gameplay, stretching a great core to its breaking point. The foundation of an incredible Shinobi revival is here, but bland levels can't keep up with the strength of everything else.
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  1. Kotaku
    Aug 25, 2025
    Shinobi: Art of Vengeance has all the right stuff at its core. The fluid action is a blast at its best, and the breathtaking visuals are a sight to behold. Unfortunately, the unfulfilling exploration and so-so platforming keep the game from hitting its full potential. It’s an enjoyable playthrough on a rainy day, especially for the person who wants a strong hit of Sega nostalgia or needs to decompress from more intensive games. But like spending time with someone who wants to be everyone’s friend, the experience feels a little too shallow for its own good. Shinobi’s long overdue return is easy to like, I just wish I could love it too.