Ninja Gaiden 2 Black

Ninja Gaiden II Black takes an already solid entry into the series and gives it a modern and bloody coat of paint that signals the return of the legendary franchise.

Almost two decades after its original release, Ninja Gaiden 2 returns in Black form. While the core gameplay loop of cinematic action remains as compelling as ever, the focus here is clearly on updated visuals. The $50 price tag, however, feels a bit steep for what is essentially a visual refresh of a nearly 20-year-old game. Whether or not it's worth the price will likely depend on your level of nostalgia for the series. Hardcore Ninja Gaiden fans may find it hard to resist, but more casual players might want to consider waiting for a sale.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is an Unreal Engine 5 revival of Ninja Gaiden 2 Sigma that arrives unexpectedly yet brings back the series’ legendary fast-paced action. While some missing features from the original Ninja Gaiden 2 and random performance stumbles keep it from being the perfect return, its wildly satisfying combat and varied arsenal make it a worthwhile visit for fans craving that classic Ninja Gaiden rush.

Despite the glossy Unreal 5 sheen, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is unapologetic in its 360-era game design that is as frustrating as it is refreshingly no-nonsense. While modern audiences might bounce off some of its old-school quirks, when its blood-gushing, limb-severing action clicks you'll understand why it deserves to be as highly regarded as Bayonetta or Devil May Cry. For the definitive experience, purists may still want to stick with the original (which is backwards compatible on Xbox) but this is still a superior remaster to the last-gen collection that offers the best of both versions.

For many like me, seeing Ninja Gaiden emboss a game basically guarantees a purchase. Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is no exception. On top of its stapled blisteringly challenging combat, the entire game receives a visual level of polish that makes it feel new again. That said, the problems still exist, like enemy projectiles flying through objects and still hitting you. Above all else, though, the camera issues remain the most frustrating element of the game. Still, there's enough fun, gore, and challenge that will outweigh the outdated traits, even for newcomers.