- Publisher: Sega
- Release Date: Aug 29, 2025
- Also On: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
- Summary:
- Developer: Lizardcube
- Genre(s): Action, Platformer, 2D
- # of players: No Online Multiplayer
- Cheats: On GameFAQs
- More Details and Credits »
Score distribution:
-
Positive: 8 out of 8
-
Mixed: 0 out of 8
-
Negative: 0 out of 8
-
Sep 17, 2025Having never played any of the original Shinobi games, I didn’t really know what to expect going into Art of Vengeance. Was it a straightforward beat ‘em up? Or more of a Metroidvania? Well, turns out the answer is both, all wrapped in a stunning visual style – that does suffer slightly on the Switch version in particular – and if the quality on offer here is any indication, then I cannot wait to see what lies in store from the remaining four SEGA titles.
-
Aug 25, 2025Shinobi: Art of Vengeance has few equals when it comes to 2D combat. It's a thrilling triumph, emblazoned by a striking art style that confirms Lizardcube is at the top of its game. After a prolonged absence, this is the perfect way to reintroduce the world to Shinobi and Joe Musashi, instantly revitalizing one of Sega's earliest heroes with his best game to date. There's still a clear reverence for the past here, but Art of Vengeance also pushes the genre forward with an emphasis on deep combat that flows just as smoothly as water and has the looks to back it up. Ninjas are eating well.
-
Apr 8, 2026While perhaps not every idea works as well as the others, this blend of homage to the past and refined modern touches is easy to get invested in.
-
Sep 12, 2025It could have been better, Shinobi III deserved to be treated as more than an aesthetic theme, and it’s not nearly as well-considered a successor as Streets of Rage 4 was. But the game is still solidly recommended for anyone who likes the idea of a metroidvania with an overpowered ninja protagonist.
-
Sep 2, 2025In reinventing the retro wheel, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance leads the way: a demonstration of how modern tools, accompanied by thought and talent, can be expanded upon to not just reboot franchises, but actually rebuild them in new and incredible ways. It’s one thing to revisit an arcade action game with new graphics, moves, and weapons, cherry picking familiar set-pieces and nostalgic visuals; it’s another entirely to create a new experience, utilising craftsmanship and a belief that the hardware can offer more. Art of Vengeance, its cadence and flow, its violence and exhilaration — and the fact it makes you feel like an absolute badass from one slain enemy to the next — is a trendsetter. Fix that frame rate, and it’s pure ninja gold.
-
Sep 22, 2025The variety of gameplay in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance makes for a top adventure. This is an excellent side-scrolling return for the series, with a little bit of everything for anyone seeking satisfying combat, plenty of collectibles, and challenging optional platforming segments. The thrill of battle never gets old, although some stages can get a little drawn out by the non-linear moments that could have been trimmed.
-
Sep 28, 2025After a 14-year hiatus, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance returns with a fresh formula, flawless art direction, and a more accessible experience for new generations. The game does have room for improvement (especially in its story) but nothing that detracts from the fun and compact campaign.