Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

It's been too long since we had a new Shinobi game, but Art of Vengeance has been more than worth the wait. With tremendous visuals, an exceptional soundtrack and a compelling combat system that makes each fight a delight, this elevates Sega's action platformer to new heights in the same way Lizardcube previously did with Streets of Rage 4. Exceptional.

Art of Vengeance is a title capable of redefining what a 2D action platformer can offer today. Lizardcube succeeds once again, combining technique, style, and rhythm with a mastery that captivates both longtime nostalgics and those approaching the Oboro Clan for the first time. Every fight is a lethal dance, every stage an invitation to explore and improve, and every extra feature a challenge that rewards dedication and commitment. It's an intense, elegant, and ruthless experience, where every victory is earned on the field and every mistake is paid dearly. A return in which past and present collide uncompromisingly, reminding us why Joe Musashi is, and remains, a legend. And now, friends of Lizardcube, how do you feel about bringing Golden Axe out of retirement?

While it’s possible to just blow through each stage as a linear challenge, every level is its own self-contained search-action game full of secrets and obstacle courses and death-defying aerial challenges.

If you were once hooked on the SHINOBI series or enjoy challenging side-scrolling action games focused on combat and difficult platforming, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance delivers a nostalgic thrill that's enough to overlook its rough design.

While the combos and the Shinobi Execution special attack may not be particularly unique, Shinobi's battle system is well crafted and delivers a strong sense of exhilaration. The consistently challenging level design and boss fights expand the classical appeal of 2D action into a modern context, offering something fresh for players tired of Soulslikes and Metroidvanias. That said, the story and worldbuilding remain stuck in the kind of B-grade sensibility often found in retro games, leaving something to be desired by the standards of contemporary videogames.