Ninjas are a staple in video games, such as classics like Ninja Gaiden and modern titles like The Messenger. There is just something about Ninja’s as protagonists, that just works. They can be adapted to multiple scenarios and gameplay styles, with the only limit being the imagination of developers. Enter the Shinobi series.
Shinobi is a beloved staple of Sega platformers like the Master System and Genesis/Mega Drive, but the series began in the arcades. The arcade version of Shinobi is what we have come to look at today, and Sega and M2 have done something special with their approach to this arcade classic. For those who are not familiar with the game, Shinobi stars the ninja master named Joe Musashi and follows him on his quest to rescue kidnapped innocents from enemy ninjas. There are powerful bosses, a large variety of enemies, and great level design at play here, and they add up to a satisfying experience. Joe will utilize shurikens, throwing knives and other weapons to defeat his enemies, but they do not make it easy for you. The game will beat you down and make you like it and leave you to come crawling back.
I recently reviewed the Arcade Archives release of The Ninja Warriors, and noted that it feels like a slow and sluggish version of Shinobi. It was only after playing this release though, that I came to appreciate how much better Shinobi is in terms of design and pacing. The game moves briskly, but with enough difficulty that keeps you from finishing too quickly, and leaves you wanting to finish the game no matter what. There is a good amount of polish and refinement here, that sadly was lacking in many other games of the era. This is a reason that Shinobi has held up over the years and can still be enjoyed. I may not be a big fan of the series at all, but I can appreciate a well-designed game, and Shinobi is one. The excellent music and minigames, which are all here, also add to the overall quality and make this an excellent package.
But what is new in this release? The Sega Ages releases always have something new and Shinobi is no exception. One major addition is the inclusion of a rewind feature to go back and avoid getting hit or falling in a pit. Its completely optional, but with a game that challenges you, it is something to consider using until you improve without it. This version of Shinobi also uses a new melee button for a special bonus attack., but the big different is the AGES mode, where Joe Musashi will have a white outfit, better weapons and can take more hits and deal more damage quickly. It is a great mode for beginners, and rather than holding your hand, it encourages you to get better by learning so that you can beat the game on regular mode.
Overall, Sega Ages Shinobi is an excellent enhanced port of the arcade experience, and the additions make it even better. This is some of Sega’s best, and I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
In addition, I would like to add that there is an active Sega retrogaming Facebook community group you can join at https://www.facebook.com/groups/segaretrogamers/
For more, visit Retro Gamers Hub (www.retrogamershub.com) for their extensive collection of retrogaming interest groups to choose from.