Just another week in the life of a Super Ninja... so prepare to save the world and break free from 'The Grip of M
Here is my breakdown of this title
Campaign/Story Mode:
Arcade action all the way - little arcade adventuring / level exploration.
Basic arcade actionhence no in-game menus - also as of yet no extra ninpo.
Only Sword and bow selectable - although claws available free for use in story mode - with online pass.
Graphics :
Using modified PS3 NGS2 engine - lower poly count compared to NGII engine - some very minor tearing balanced with some amazing effects - although some bland textures. Reduced polys result in no de-limb/ decap of standard enemies.
Audio:
Cool effects - music generally good - not quite up to previous NG's.
Gameplay:
Story Mode -
Arcade action all the way - little arcade adventuring / level exploration.
Basic arcade action hence no in-game menus - also as of yet no extra ninpo.
Only Sword and bow selectable - although claws available free for use in story mode - with online pass.
Downer is the many QTE's (especially during helicopter battles) can get a little annoying.
I found the games difficulty [Normal] was more enjoyable, and certainly less soul crushing than NG2's over reliance on balancing use of health items -(Although overall NG2 is a superior title to this).
Online MP-In clan battle, as well as being part of one of two sides* you are given a personal 'mission' objective - ie. Stealth kill player 'x' , Revenge kill player 'y' or Finish Player with weapon 'z' etc.
Also you unlock Kanji Symbols - added to the back your outfit during combat - cool. Also at certain points the clans will disperse and you are left in a free for all situation - very hectic ! .Smooth online play and story mode/ co-op modes aid replayability - and online MP and future DLC delivers value for money.
Value:
After approx 20hrs of total gameplay (including Online MP) - I conclude it is pretty good game.
I got mine for only £29.99 so review marks based on this pricepoint, please
-0.5pt if you bought at price above this.
Support via. 'Shadows of the World' mode and any further free DLC packs will ensure the game still has legs.
Overall:
The lows were / are easy for all NG veterans to see - few enemy types, shonky level design, and the lack of menus and an interactive Muramasa Shop.
The highs were also immense - with some really cool boss fights, occasional spectacular environs and some glitzy effects.
As a Ninja Gaiden title it is sorely lacking - not enough content, not enough detail and well... just not long enough either - 8 chapters/days are not enough. Needed a little more dev. time maybe?.
But, for all its many faults its still definitely a game 'Worth Playing'
My Verdict = OK
Overall Rating = 7.5/10
Note:
I have completed this game on Normal mode - all those wanting a challenge I strongly suggest you select this from the start - ignore 'Hero'.
Normal Mode is for normal gamer ability.