Ninja Gaiden censored for Europe

Microsoft has today confirmed that the European version of Ninja Gaiden has been censored. The most noticeable difference in the European game will be the absence of graphic decapitations after the player executes certain fatal blows, but it is worth noting that shuriken (throwing stars) will still feature in the game, despite the fact that they have been omitted from games in Europe in the past.

"The European version of Spring's most highly anticipated game on any platform, Ninja Gaiden, will differ very slightly from the version released in the US," reads the official statement from Microsoft. "The game will be identical in terms of graphical excellence, gameplay, and all the other features that have made gamers in the US excited about Ninja Gaiden. Minor changes will be made to ensure that the game satisfies ratings requirements in Europe."

Ninja Gaiden was rated "M" for Mature players, ahead of its release in North America last month. According to the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) Web site, the European version of the game, scheduled for release on May 14, will be rated 16+ in all territories except Finland, where it will carry a 15+ rating.