SWEATY PALMS - Ninjas leap to avenge
By Sean Roberts

Volume 49, No. 16, September 06, 2007
 
 
Ninja Gaiden Sigma
Atari
PS3 (MA15+)

The game: Avenge the destruction of your village as Ryu Hyabusa on a quest to reclaim the legendary Dark Dragon Blade in this ninja-themed action adventure.

The play: Even though you play as a ninja, you won’t find any stealth here. Ninja Gaiden is all about slicing through your enemies as stylishly as possible. The controls are fast and fluid, the action moves at breakneck speed, and the enemies are ruthless. This game is hard, really hard, but those who persevere will find it deep and satisfying.

The terrain: This is now the third version of a three-year-old game that began on the original Xbox, and as such the graphic quality is essentially that of a hi-res port. That said, this is the first time it has appeared on a next-gen console and on the PS3 it looks incredible.

The experience: It’s simply astonishing that developers Team Ninja can continue to release new versions of the same game over and over again and still make it feel fresh. If you’re already a fan, the graphic overhaul and countless new tweaks and additions make it worth another look. For those who have never had the privilege, this is a must buy.