Ninja Gaiden Black

"Perfection has never been so sleek"

This is Tecmo's frsutrating masterpeice, Ninja Gaiden Black. It is a directors cut of Ninja Gaiden, which brought the series to 3D, with very good results. Team Ninja has decided to tweak the Ninja Gaiden formula by adding in some of the Hurricane pack editions. Two new difficulties have also been added, one, Ninja Dog, is for the more casual gamer, and even gives you items for dying. The other is Master Ninja, the most hardcore difficulty in Ninja Gaiden Black. Anyway, now that we have discussed some of the new additions, on to the rest of the review.

Graphics - 9 / 10 - The graphics in this game are very good, but because it is a re-release of a 2004 game, it shows. The cut scene graphics are greatly unparalleled by most games even today on current gen systems. The environments are also detailed and varied, as are the enemies. One warning as well; dont play this game on a 360, there is massive slow down.

Gameplay - 10 / 10 - The gameplay is some of, if not the, best in action game to date. The game can be very challenging on your first play, and as you play more and more and practice, playing the higher difficulties gets even more rewarding. The many ways to play this game (Speed Runs, No life expansion runs, ect) make this a purchase you will be playing for literally HUNDREDS of hours. The game has a "Karma" scoring system, and this "karma" is gained from battles. There is a a basic setup of combo, kills, and a time limit (it is used in a way in that if you complete the battle under the limit, you are awarded 10 k karma). There are also UT's or Ultimate Techniques that come in two levels and increase your karma as you use them. The regular combat in this game is very deep, deep enough to warrant a FAQ, and heavily influenced by fighting game mechanics. After completing the game a first time, you also unlock the mission mode. Completing the mission warrants you Mision Mode karma, and can be used for some heavy bragging rights.

Sound - 8 / 10 - the sound effects in this game are very good, from Ryu's screams to the satisfying sound you get when slice an enemy. The music in the game can be forgettable, but your bound to find a tune you will like and hum while you work. The voice Acting isnt too great either, and is also pretty sparse in the latter parts of the game (thankfully).

Replayability - 10 / 10 - this game will keep you playing for hours upon days upon weeks upon years! I cant stress it is enough.

Extras - 6 / 10 - This game has a DOA4 preview and some costumes. Not much, although they are rather cool. There is Xbox Live compatability in the form of leader boards. These let you compare scores in different difficullty levels and Mission Mode, and might make you want to get even better at the game, just for competitons sake. One added thing about this game is the very strong fan base. Many forums and videos showcasing the game let you feel right at home.

So if you can handle a challenge, then definantly buy this game. I gaurantee you will love it.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 03/20/06