Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a 2D side-scrolling action platformer that serves as a soft reboot of Sega's long-running Shinobi franchise. It reintroduces the series' protagonist Joe Musashi, master of the Oboro Clan. After years of peace, his village is destroyed and his fellow ninjas are turned to stone by the forces of ENE Corp, a shadowy organization led by Ruse. Seeking to avenge his clan, Joe embarks on a journey across varied environments—from urban strongholds and military bases to deserts and mountain temples—facing both human soldiers and supernatural enemies. In additional to the new gameplay elements, it retaining the series' hallmarks of fast-paced combat, precision platforming, and ninja-themed abilities.

Gameplay centers around melee combat with Joe’s katana, the Oborozuki, complemented by kunai projectiles, powerful Ninpo techniques, and a variety of unlockable special moves through currency spent at a shop. Encounters emphasize chaining combos, breaking through defenses, and managing groups of enemies with speed and efficiency. Players can also activate Shinobi Executions to finish off weakened foes in cinematic fashion, while equippable amulets alter statistics or enhance abilities, allowing for a degree of customization.

In addition to combat, the game incorporates extensive platforming elements. Joe is able to double-jump, wall-run, and dash early on, with additional traversal options unlocked via Ningi tools, such as a grappling hook, wall-climbing claws, and a glider. These abilities allow players to access new areas and replay stages in a light Metroidvania structure. Levels are designed with hidden paths, challenge rooms, and collectibles. The campaign spans fourteen distinct stages, with an arcade mode and optional challenge rifts offering additional content for advanced players.