Before the Souls games took the gaming world by storm there was another franchise that was labeled as one of the hardest games ever. Enter Ninja Gaiden, a third-person action game where Ryu Hayabusa slashes through his enemies like they are butter, if you have the correct level of skills that is. Ninja Gaiden 2: Black is the newest remaster of Team Ninja’s love letter to hardcore gaming and man did it age well. Even after all those years, this remains one of the best games in its genre.
The heart of Ninja Gaiden 2: Black is its gameplay. Ryu Hayabusa returns with his signature agility and devastating arsenal, and trust me, you’ll need every tool he’s got. Combat feels as high-paced as ever, with combos flowing together so seamlessly it’s almost a dance. The extra power of the current generation pushes this even more and enables us to play and combo way smoother than ever before which is an enormous boost for the game. That is, until a hulking demon tears you to shreds, reminding you this game does not play fair and deserves all the warnings of the past.
The combat mechanics are razor-sharp and brutally satisfying. Every weapon feels different and deadly, from the quick and precise Dragon Sword to the hulking carnage of the Eclipse Scythe. Switching between weapons mid-combat is key, as certain enemies require a change in tactics. But here’s the catch: every fight feels like a boss battle. Even standard enemies will overwhelm you if you’re not constantly moving, blocking, and slashing with pinpoint precision. This game is from the era where action games could be extremely brutal and demanding. If you drop the ball, it’s an instant game-over.
Throughout the game you’ll face multiple enemies all with their own weaknesses and strenghts; keeping you on your toes from start to finish. You’ll need to learn patterns, exploit weaknesses, and stay calm under pressure. Oh, and the bosses? They’re a league of their own, blending spectacle with frustration in the best way possible.
Visually, Ninja Gaiden 2: Black is a masterpiece. Environments are way more detailed, ranging from ancient temples to cyberpunk-esque cityscapes, each with its own vibe. The lighting and effects really pull this remake into modern gaming with sparks flying from clashing blades and fountains of blood soaking the battlefield. It’s violent, sure, but it’s also undeniably stylish.
Ryu’s animations deserve special mention. Every swing, roll, and leap feels fluid and responsive, making you feel like a true ninja, even when you’re losing repeatedly. The camera, however, is less cooperative. Tight corridors and chaotic fights often lead to awkward angles that make an already challenging game even tougher and maybe even a bit unfair at some points.
In between all the action you would forget there’s also a plot. But let’s be real: no one comes to Ninja Gaiden for the story. That said, the plot does its job of giving Ryu a reason to slice through hordes of enemies. It’s your classic tale of revenge, mystical artifacts, and world-ending threats, delivered with just enough flair to keep you interested. While it’s not groundbreaking, it fits the game’s tone perfectly. Ryu is a stoic, unstoppable force, and that’s really all you need him to be.
Ninja Gaiden 2: Black is not a game for everyone. It’s punishing, relentless, and often frustrating. But it’s also one of the most rewarding action games out there. Every victory feels earned, and mastering its combat is an experience like no other. If you’re willing to endure the challenge, you’ll find one of the most satisfying ninja experiences gaming has to offer.
