The Ninja Gaiden franchise returns this year after giving us a remaster of the second game and a solid 2D entry. However, while this fourth installment promised to bring back the series’ former glory, as a longtime fan, I have to admit it left me somewhat disappointed.
Ninja Gaiden 4 takes place several years after the events of the previous entry. This time, players take control of Yakumo, a member of the Raven Clan on a mission to eliminate an organization attempting to resurrect the Dark Dragon. Along the way, he meets a priestess who aids him in his quest. Over the course of a roughly 12-hour campaign, players will slice through countless waves of enemies with precision and style.
The story is engaging but loses impact due to the minimal presence of Ryu Hayabusa, who only appears in the final three missions. This makes the game feel more like a spin-off than a mainline sequel. Even so, the combat system the heart of the series remains as sharp as ever, letting players truly feel like an unstoppable ninja.
You start off wielding dual katanas, but as you progress, you’ll unlock new weapons. The goal is simple: eliminate every enemy in small arena-style encounters. While repetitive in concept, the satisfaction of performing combos, dismemberments, and ninpo attacks never fades.
One divisive element is the progression system, where abilities, combos, and upgrades must be purchased using in-game currency earned through completing challenges or defeating secret bosses. This can slow down the natural pace of progression, though dedicated players will see it as a worthy challenge for a true ninja.
The co-development by PlatinumGames is felt throughout from the fast-paced gameplay to the punk-rock soundtrack that pumps adrenaline during battles and boss fights. The game introduces two energy gauges: one allows for devastating Blood Attacks, while the other triggers Berserk Mode, granting a cinematic strike that kills any foe instantly. These mechanics, along with the spectacular level transitions like flying through cannons or sliding down skyscrapers are pure Platinum flair.
Visually, Ninja Gaiden 4 is stunning. The level design, lighting, and reflections are impressive, and the game runs smoothly without any noticeable frame drops, even during chaotic fights with multiple enemies unleashing super attacks. The blood effects are spectacular, turning every battle into a brutal visual feast.
However, there are signs of recycled content that hold the game back. Many enemies appear to be reused from the Ninja Gaiden 2 remaster released earlier this year, with identical animations and movements. Even Yakumo himself moves and fights almost exactly like Ryu Hayabusa, sharing much of the same weapon set and attack style. Moreover, relegating Ryu to a supporting role leaves a bitter aftertaste, reminiscent of Devil May Cry 4’s handling of Nero and Dante.
In conclusion, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a strong action game that delivers on its promise of intense combat, fast pacing, and challenge. It will undoubtedly satisfy longtime fans of the saga while remaining accessible to newcomers thanks to its difficulty options and new protagonist. Despite some narrative inconsistencies and reused assets, it’s an experience that keeps the spirit of Ninja Gaiden alive.
Final Score: 4/5
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