Info about Mark of the Ninja:

Official game description:
In Mark of the Ninja, you'll know what it is to truly be a ninja. You must be silent, agile and clever to outwit your opponents in a world of gorgeous scenery and flowing animation. Marked with cursed tattoos giving you heightened senses, every situation presents you with options. Will you be an unknown, invisible ghost, or a brutal, silent assassin?  
Upgrade new tools and techniques that suit your playstyle and complete optional objectives to unlock entirely new ways to approach the game. Finish the main story to unlock a New Game Plus mode with even more options and challenges.
Key Features:
-------------
*   True Stealth Experience - Player-centric gameplay rewards choice, be it finishing the game without killing anyone or assassinating all who stand in your way  
*   Stunning Visuals - Unique 2D visual style featuring award-winning animation and hand-painted environments  
*   Custom PC Controls - Custom keyboard and mouse PC controls in addition to gamepad support  
*   Deep Experience - Each level has three score challenges, optional objectives and hidden collectibles. A diversity of unlockable abilities, items and playstyles allow exploring many avenues of play  
*   New Game Plus - Finish the game and unlock this mode, offering new challenges and rewards

Release date: 

Categories: Stealth Gameplay, 2D Platformer, Action Platformer, Metroidvania, New Game+, Level-based Structure, Skill Progression, Multiple Paths and Approaches

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair / Traditional Paid DLC Only; summary: The filtered reviews focus exclusively on paid DLC and re-release/remaster packaging: achievements requiring DLC ownership, criticism of repurchasing content in a remastered version, and one positive note about optional DLC content plus a localization complaint. None of the reviews describe an in-game real-money shop, loot boxes, gacha pulls, premium currency, battle passes, or pay-to-win advantages. The 'cost' described is the traditional upfront price of DLC and re-releases rather than predatory microtransactions, and there is no direct evidence of a post-purchase monetization system.
- Proton/Linux: score 5; verdict: Works Well; summary: The available evidence is a single positive review reporting better Steam Deck performance than the remaster. No Linux, Proton, SteamOS, Wine, anti-cheat, launcher, or DRM issues are mentioned. This supports a Works Well assessment with no observed Linux-specific friction.
- Steam Deck: score 15; verdict: Seamless Steam Deck experience; summary: User feedback is strongly positive for Steam Deck. The game is officially Steam Deck Verified, controls and interface work on the smaller display, and one user reports better performance than the remaster. The only technical note is optional performance or battery tuning under demanding visual settings. There is no evidence of external launchers, forced Proton Experimental, anti-cheat errors, crashes, or unreadable UI. A non-English review discusses studio closures and legacy handheld-like mobile games rather than Steam Deck compatibility, so it was not treated as technical evidence.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $9.99 - $14.99
  - Reasoning: The clearest price anchor is a reviewer saying the indie price tag sits perfectly at 10.99, which places the community's fair base price near $11 USD. Another reviewer says the game is well worth its full price, supporting a base price above deep-discount levels. At the same time, frequent sales, bundles, and sale-oriented recommendations show the community expects discounts, so a premium full price would not fit. The Chinese-language review calling the price very fair and citing a 9 yuan historical low reflects deep sale pricing rather than the normal base price. Together, these reviews support a fair base-game range of roughly $10 to $15 USD.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 15.0h
  - Story completion: 8.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 20.0h
  - Reasoning: The Japanese report gives a 15-hour normal playtime, matching other first-completion reports of 14-16 hours, so gameCompletion is set to 15. The French review says the adventure takes about 8 hours, and other reports describe a 7-8 hour single run, so storyCompletion is set to 8. Completionist and New Game+ evidence points higher: the French review says completionists need more than double 8 hours, the German review took 20 hours while perfecting levels, and another reviewer expects New Game+ to take almost double a normal completion; therefore endgame is set to 20 as a conservative post-story/100% figure. No review clearly reports a typical play-session length, so sessionLength is null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Mark of the Ninja shows early friction around complex systems, controls, and difficult sections, then becomes fun once the mechanics and solutions click and progression adds new tools. No review gives a specific time cue for that turn.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Everything just clicks into place
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Complex systems require getting used to; Occasionally troublesome controls; Repetitive, frustrating puzzles; Some sections feel nearly impossible; Checkpoint save issues; Late-game difficulty
  - Unlock drivers: Progression grants new tools; Story progression and upgrades add more tactical options; New mechanics appear when repetition starts; Level design supports multiple solutions; Character progression supports different playstyles
  - Conditions: Getting used to complex mechanics; Adapting to troublesome controls; Learning puzzle solutions; Engaging with story progression and upgrades; Using new tools when repetition sets in; Being open to replaying for achievements and leaderboards
- Player Archetypes:
  - Hardcore Stealth Purist (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastering pure stealth, avoiding detection, and overcoming high-difficulty challenges.
    - Playstyle: Avoids open combat, uses distraction tools and multiple routes, and pursues challenging stealth or no-detection runs.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: long time Stealth players; Established fans of the genre
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Casual 2D Action-Platformer Fan (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying accessible, well-designed 2D stealth-action platforming without needing hardcore stealth mastery.
    - Playstyle: Plays at a relaxed pace, mixes stealth with direct action when convenient, and enjoys platforming, puzzles, and varied level design.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: casual fans of the genre; casual players
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Completionist Achievement Hunter (buy)
    - Motivation: Completing every collectible, achievement, challenge, and perfected score the game offers.
    - Playstyle: Replays levels for collectibles and high scores, pursues all achievements, and engages deeply with extra challenges and New Game Plus.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: completionist; big fans
    - Reference games: Mario
  - Ninja Fantasy Immersionist (buy)
    - Motivation: Immersion in ninja lore, identity, art, and atmosphere.
    - Playstyle: Engages with the game as a ninja role-playing fantasy, using tools and stealth while appreciating story, visuals, and presentation.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Top-tier stealth mechanics (weight 0.59): Players widely praise the stealth mechanics as exceptional and among the best in the genre. The gameplay balances stealth and action extremely well, creating a standout experience.
- Strong replayability (weight 0.44): The game is highly replayable due to multiple approaches, New Game+ modes, and a compelling gameplay loop. Players find it addictive and rewarding to master.
- Generally well-rounded and fun (weight 0.41): Overall, the game is considered well-made and enjoyable, offering good value for its price. It provides a fun and intelligent experience.
- High level variety and routes (weight 0.38): Levels offer multiple routes and strategies for completion, with secrets to discover and a variety of tools and abilities. This encourages experimentation and replayability.
- Excellent sound and music (weight 0.34): Sound effects, music, and voice acting are of high quality and fit the game perfectly. The soundtrack is well-integrated and enhances the overall experience.
- Intuitive and simple controls (weight 0.31): The controls are consistently described as intuitive, simple, and easy to learn across PC and console. They feel crisp and responsive, contributing to smooth gameplay.
- Great 2D stealth platformer (weight 0.27): As a 2D side-scrolling stealth game, it is considered a masterpiece in its niche. The platforming and stealth elements combine superbly.
- Authentic ninja experience (weight 0.27): The game captures the essence of being a ninja with realistic themes and equipment selection. Players enjoy the accurate depiction of ninja stealth and style.
- Outstanding level design (weight 0.22): Level design is meticulously crafted and stunning, with tight layouts that support multiple stealth approaches. The design is consistently praised for its quality.
- Smooth and engaging gameplay (weight 0.19): Gameplay is extremely smooth and engaging, with controls that feel responsive. The execution is spot-on, keeping players immersed.
- Accessible and fun stealth (weight 0.18): The stealth gameplay is easy to get into but remains robust and entertaining. It appeals to both newcomers and veterans of the genre.
- Comparable to best stealth games (weight 0.18): The stealth elements rival or exceed those in many modern stealth games, including titles like Hitman Absolution. It stands out as a top-tier stealth-platformer.
- Balanced challenge (weight 0.15): The difficulty is well-balanced, offering a challenge without becoming frustrating. Players appreciate the thoughtful tuning of challenge levels.
- Challenging New Game Plus (weight 0.15): New Game+ mode adds a significant challenge by altering vision mechanics, such as adding a vision cone or limiting omnidirectional vision. This renews the experience for veteran players.
- Frequent and fair checkpoints (weight 0.14): Checkpoints are generously placed, minimizing lost progress after mistakes. This encourages trial-and-error experimentation and keeps frustration low.
- Engaging story (weight 0.14): The story is interesting and well-presented, adding depth to the overall experience. Players find it a positive aspect of the game.
- Costumes affect playstyle (weight 0.14): Unlockable costumes and suits alter abilities and encourage different playstyles, such as pure stealth or combat-focused runs. This adds variety and replay value.
- Bold and surprising ending (weight 0.14): The story features a bold and uncommon ending with a shocking twist. This narrative choice leaves a strong impression on players.
- Good controller and PC support (weight 0.14): Controls work well on both Xbox 360 controller and mouse/keyboard, despite the game's console origins. This flexibility is appreciated by players.
- Pleasing art style (weight 0.14): The art style is highly praised, with high-resolution visuals and a cohesive aesthetic. It contributes positively to the game's atmosphere.

Common complaints:
- Story is generic and weak (weight 0.6): Many reviews criticize the story as generic, simple, predictable, and lacking complexity or depth. The narrative is often described as straightforward and unimpressive from the start.
- Stealth is enforced, combat punished (weight 0.53): The game penalizes direct confrontation and action-oriented play, making combat difficult and often leading to quick death. Players who prefer action or fighting back may be frustrated.
- Scoring system encourages perfectionism (weight 0.49): The scoring system rewards replaying and memorizing missions for high scores, which can be unfeasible and frustrating. Point gains are sometimes inconsistent and unclear.
- Limited gameplay variety and depth (weight 0.48): The game is short, with few enemy types and repetitive puzzles, and lacks variability in gameplay. Skill upgrades and gadgets feel underutilized.
- Disappointing story ending (weight 0.35): Players frequently find the ending unsatisfying, frustrating, and lacking a real punch. The conclusion, including the true ending, leaves many feeling disappointed.
- Visuals and art style criticized (weight 0.31): The art style, character models, and graphics are often described as clunky, ugly, or simplistic. The dark screen and limited visibility further detract from the experience.
- Unreliable and frustrating controls (weight 0.31): Controls often do not perform as expected, causing frustration, and can feel sticky or unresponsive. Keyboard and mouse controls are less intuitive than a controller, and some actions feel clumsy.
- Stealth gameplay is slow and repetitive (weight 0.28): The stealth-focused gameplay can become boring due to slow pace, repetition, and similar stage structures. Patience is often required, waiting for patrols and obstacles, which some find tedious.
- Story is linear and cliched (weight 0.28): The narrative is completely linear, relying on typical revenge and betrayal tropes, with predictable twists. The theme of honor and magic tattoos feels overused.
- Audio and translation issues (weight 0.24): The soundtrack is unmemorable, and translations or dubbing can be odd or missing. Some players struggle to follow the story due to language barriers.
- Inconsistent and misleading level design (weight 0.23): Level design can be misleading, with unclear paths and secret areas, and sometimes forces players into certain routes. The architecture may lack logical sense.
- DLC is overpriced and short (weight 0.22): The DLC adds minimal content, often just one stage, and is considered not worth the price unless discounted. Completionists may feel forced to buy it for achievements.
- Achievements locked behind DLC (weight 0.22): Some achievements require purchasing DLC or the remastered edition, which feels like a cheap tactic. This forces additional spending for completionists.
- Trial-and-error level design (weight 0.21): Some levels, especially later ones, require excessive trial and error, reducing flexibility in puzzles and encounters. This leads to frustration and repeated deaths.
- AI inconsistencies break immersion (weight 0.21): Enemy AI is often inconsistent, with robotic patterns and variable awareness. Guards sometimes spot players inexplicably or fail to notice obvious actions.
- Story delivery relies on cutscenes (weight 0.2): The story is primarily delivered through cinematics and dialogue, which can annoy players who prefer gameplay. Some feel the gameplay lacks meaning due to the heavy focus on cutscenes.
- QTE and interaction issues (weight 0.19): Quick-time events for kills are annoying, and interactions are often too apparent or not apparent enough. Bugs like frozen UI and stuck lasers can also hinder progress.
- Checkpoint system frustrates (weight 0.17): Checkpoints can be too generous or too punishing, sometimes reloading with enemies already alerted, ruining stealth runs. This forces players to restart levels entirely.
- Difficulty is inconsistent (weight 0.16): The game can be too easy for some due to poor enemy AI, while others find difficulty spikes annoying. Normal difficulty is rarely challenging.
- Non-lethal path lacks incentive (weight 0.12): The non-lethal approach is challenging but provides little reward, and some boss encounters lack non-lethal options. This discourages players from choosing the harder path.

Gameplay feedback:
- Stealth-focused gameplay (weight 0.91): The core experience revolves around stealth action, with multiple routes and strategies for each level. Players can hide in shadows, avoid detection, or eliminate enemies silently.
- 2D side-scrolling stealth game (weight 0.9): The game is defined as a 2D side-scrolling stealth platformer where players control a modern ninja and use stealth-based combat. Many reviewers emphasize the 2D perspective and side-scrolling format.
- Ninja theme and protagonist (weight 0.6): Players control a ninja, often a member of the Hisomu clan, who uses stealth and assassination to defeat enemies. The game emphasizes ninja techniques and equipment.
- New Game Plus mode (weight 0.38): After completing the game, players unlock New Game+ which includes changes such as altered viewing angles and more realistic enemy vision cones. This adds replayability.
- Progression and upgrade system (weight 0.34): Players can unlock new tools, abilities, and gadgets through a progression system. Points earned from actions can be used to purchase upgrades.
- Multiple playstyles and approaches (weight 0.32): The game offers various ways to complete levels, including stealth, lethal, and non-lethal approaches. Players can choose to kill everyone or sneak past undetected.
- Stealth mechanics and indicators (weight 0.31): The game provides clear visual indicators for enemy vision cones, sound ranges, and whether shadows hide the player. Light and sound play a major role in stealth.
- Optional objectives and collectibles (weight 0.27): Each level contains secrets, collectibles, and optional challenges. These include scoring challenges and secret items that add depth to the gameplay.
- High replayability and endings (weight 0.22): The game features high replayability with two endings branching from a final decision. Players are encouraged to replay levels to explore different strategies.
- Multiple stealth tactics and tools (weight 0.22): Players can use various stealth tactics such as sneak attacks, distractions, and environmental manipulation. Tools include hiding bodies, breaking lights, and using noise to lure guards.
- Ninja equipment and item system (weight 0.21): The game features an item system with distinctive ninja equipment, allowing players to select and use various tools. This enhances the stealth experience.
- Level design with multiple paths (weight 0.19): Levels are large and branching, offering multiple paths to reach targets. This includes routes through doors, rooftops, and underground areas.
- Controls work well on all devices (weight 0.18): Reviewers report that controls are responsive and convenient with keyboard, mouse, and controller. This makes the game accessible on different platforms.
- Sneaking and guard manipulation (weight 0.15): Players can sneak past guards without touching them or make noise to lure them. The game allows for strategic manipulation of enemy attention.
- Modern setting with contemporary era (weight 0.1): The game is set in modern times, featuring a contemporary era backdrop. This contrasts with traditional ninja settings and adds a unique twist.
- Platformer elements in stealth game (weight 0.1): Despite being a stealth game, it incorporates platforming elements such as jumping and climbing. This blend of genres is noted by many reviewers.

Performance notes:
- Runs on low-end hardware (weight 0.15): The game is described as ancient and able to run on a potato, with better performance than the remaster on bad PCs. It does a lot without using many resources, so it should run well on most machines.
- Good performance on Steam Deck (weight 0.11): Multiple users report the game runs well on Steam Deck, and some find it performs better than the remaster. Demanding visual settings can be adjusted for battery life or consistent performance.
- Technically sound and stable (weight 0.11): Users report the game ran without incident on default settings and is technically sound, able to play at high resolutions with all settings turned up.
- Lag due to input language settings (weight 0.06): Potential lag occurs if the input method is not switched to English, which can affect gameplay responsiveness. This is a specific issue users have encountered.
- Lag from visual effects and processes (weight 0.06): Lag occurs due to various processes going on in the game with visual effects, such as a raging sandstorm. This can impact performance during intense scenes.

Recommendations:
- Must-play for stealth fans (weight 0.71): Overwhelming consensus that anyone who enjoys stealth games should buy this, with many calling it a must-have or essential. The game is repeatedly described as one of the best in the stealth genre.
- General positive recommendation (weight 0.7): Many reviewers simply recommend the game without hesitation, using phrases like 'highly recommended' or 'buy it without regret.' This broad approval spans casual and dedicated players alike.
- Great value and fair price (weight 0.44): Reviewers frequently mention the game is worth its price, often calling it cheap or a great value. Some say it is worth full price, while others suggest waiting for a sale.
- Ideal for ninja and shinobi fans (weight 0.38): The game is highly recommended for those who enjoy ninja themes, assassination, or shinobi simulators. It is praised for its realistic portrayal of ninja culture.
- Appeals to platformer fans (weight 0.28): Many reviewers recommend the game for fans of platformers, side-scrollers, and metroidvanias, noting its strong 2D stealth-platforming gameplay.
- Suitable for stealth beginners (weight 0.18): Several reviewers note the game is welcoming to those new to stealth games, recommending it even to players who typically do not play the genre. It is described as a good entry point.
- DLC opinions mixed (weight 0.18): Some reviewers recommend buying the DLC for extra chapters, weapons, and developer notes, while others say it adds little and is only worth it on sale or for completionists.
- Pure stealth experience (weight 0.18): The game is described as a pure stealth experience with well-implemented mechanics, even if it includes mandatory stealth sections. Fans of action-only gameplay may not enjoy it.
- Not for stealth detractors (weight 0.15): Reviewers warn that if you dislike stealth games, this will not change your mind, and those who prefer action will hate it. It is also not recommended for players wanting realistic stealth or disliking trial-and-error.
- Gamepad strongly recommended (weight 0.15): Players strongly recommend using a gamepad, particularly an Xbox 360 controller, for better controls. Some note it also works well with mouse and keyboard.
- Multiple playthroughs recommended (weight 0.14): Reviewers suggest playing at least a second time to see both endings and experience another storyline, including realistic mode and New Game+. This adds significant replay value.
- Worth trying on sale (weight 0.14): Several reviewers advise waiting for a sale or buying only if discounted, especially for those unsure about the game or concerned about its short length. It is also recommended in bundles.
- Special Edition or Remastered preferred (weight 0.12): Reviewers recommend buying the Special Edition directly or upgrading to Remastered for a low price if you have the original. Playing the remastered version is advised for those with a bad PC.
- Recommended for indie game fans (weight 0.1): The game is highly recommended for fans of independent games, with some calling it one of the best indie titles they have played. It is praised for its artistic quality and solid gameplay.
- Great for casual players (weight 0.1): Reviewers note the game can be enjoyed casually and is accessible to a wide audience, though hardcore stealth fans may find it too casual.
- Good for Metal Gear fans (weight 0.09): Fans of Metal Gear and Splinter Cell are specifically recommended to add this game to their library. It is considered a benchmark of stealth-action even in 2D.
- Art and sound praised (weight 0.09): The game's high artistic quality, good sound, and Western comic art style are highlighted as reasons to buy. The refined visuals and story depth are also commended.
- Check videos before buying (weight 0.09): Some advise checking gameplay videos first due to the dark screen or to see if the style appeals. One reviewer did not recommend the game for themselves.
- Short length noted (weight 0.08): Some reviewers mention the game is short and recommend buying it on sale if that is a concern. Completionists may spend extra hours on achievements and high difficulty.

Other player notes:
- Developed by Klei Entertainment (weight 0.27): Multiple reviews identify Klei Entertainment as the developer of the game. Some also note it was published or distributed by Microsoft Studios.
- Compared to stealth genre classics (weight 0.18): Reviewers compare the game to Thief, Splinter Cell, Dishonored, and Assassin's Creed, noting it combines the best qualities of these titles in a 2D perspective.
- Stylistic similarity to Shank (weight 0.17): The game's graphics and animation are compared to Shank, another Klei title. The visual style is reminiscent of Shank.
- From creators of Don't Starve (weight 0.11): The game is made by the creators of Don't Starve, Shank, and Shank 2. Klei is also known for Stealth Inc.
- Includes DLC and story twists (weight 0.1): The game includes DLC content and a second half of the base game featuring story twists.
- Playthrough lasts 7-10 hours (weight 0.1): A first playthrough typically lasts about 7 to 10 hours. One review mentions 8 hours.
- Accurate ninja gameplay depiction (weight 0.1): The game is one of the few that lets players play as a real ninja. It is described as a pretty accurate depiction of ninjas.
- Special Edition DLC adds content (weight 0.1): The Special Edition DLC adds a side story mission, new items, 2 achievements, and developer commentary spots that give achievements and background.
- Chinese localization patch available (weight 0.09): A Chinese localization patch is available online. However, it may cause bugs.
- DLC adds new level (weight 0.09): Buying the DLC grants access to a new level.
- Harder mode unlocks after completion (weight 0.09): After finishing the main story, a higher difficulty mode becomes available.
- Released on Xbox 360 and PC (weight 0.09): The game was initially released on Xbox 360 in September or October 2012, and also on PC.
- Comic-style visual presentation (weight 0.09): The game features a comic-style visual presentation.
- Playtime 15-30 hours (weight 0.09): Playtime ranges from 15 to 30 hours depending on playstyle. On normal difficulty, it is approximately 15 hours.
- Same studio as Shank 2 (weight 0.09): The game is developed by the same studio as Shank 2, using the same engine as Shank.
- Japanese support for system and subtitles (weight 0.09): Japanese language support is available for the system and subtitles only.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.21): The game provides satisfying stealth mechanics that reward patience, planning, and mastery. Players feel intelligent and accomplished as they complete levels without detection or eliminate targets using varied playstyles. The balanced difficulty, responsive controls, and forgiving checkpoint system make repeated attempts manageable and ultimately rewarding.
- Admiration (weight 0.09): Players admire the game's meticulous level design, beautiful comic book-style visuals, and graceful animation. The sophisticated enemy AI and tool systems create a rich stealth experience that stands on par with genre benchmarks like Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory. Klei Entertainment's achievement in making a 2D stealth game that rivals 3D counterparts is highly praised.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.09): The game is enjoyable due to its well-balanced stealth gameplay, multiple approaches, and balanced challenge. The variety of equipment and costumes, smooth controls, and engaging story with a striking ending keep players entertained. The forgiving checkpoint system and fun stealth kills make it accessible and rewarding.
- Appreciation (weight 0.08): Players appreciate the consistent design that reinforces the ninja fantasy through movement, lighting, sound, and level layout. The excellent sound design, art direction, and deep stealth system show the developers' care and dedication. The game's high replayability and refined visuals make it worth full price despite its short length.
- Disappointment (weight 0.08): Disappointment stems from the story being simple, predictable, and not clearly explained, with a generic revenge plot and binary ending choices. The campaign is smaller than modern stealth games, and the DLC adds little content while reusing character faces. Some levels lack logical architecture, and the absence of boss fights and gadget variability is noted.
- Frustration (weight 0.06): Frustration arises from difficulty spikes in the last part of the game, poorly placed checkpoints, and unfair detection by guards just outside the sight cone. The scoring system feels capricious and meaningless, while controls sometimes cause punches instead of stealth kills. Mid-level checkpoints loading with enemies immediately aggroed and triggering alarms add to the frustration.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): Excitement comes from the ability to manipulate enemies and use fear as a tactical weapon, along with the active pause ability and a large set of ninja special equipment. The robust core stealth gameplay, superb level design, and multiple ways to solve rooms and hide bodies make successful actions feel rewarding.
- Annoyance (weight 0.04): Annoyance is caused by QTEs for kills, inconsistent AI, and too much trial and error in some levels. The story being only in cinematics makes it feel like playing just for short cutscenes, and the last level forces teleport use while preventing assassinations. Achievements locked behind paid DLC and technical issues like lagging from visual effects also contribute.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.03): Enthusiasm stems from the real freedom of approach and incredible ninja atmosphere. The game offers excellent stealth gameplay with varied routes and equipment, making it one of the best pure stealth games ever made. The unique 2D stealth implementation and variety of gadgets and playstyles are highly praised.
- Fun (weight 0.03): Fun is derived from playing as a ninja with equipment choices and stealth/confrontation options. The accessible perfect runs due to forgiving checkpoints, steady difficulty slope, and the joy of finding your stealthy ninja way make the game enjoyable. Mastering the game and pulling off stealth kills adds to the fun.
- Engagement (weight 0.03): Engagement is driven by the need to carefully choose costumes and tools based on level conditions and playstyle. Constantly learning new mechanics and planning like a chess puzzle keeps players invested in the twisted story and multiple endings. The game hooks you more the more you play, as evidenced by playing through twice in a row.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Surprise comes from the game opening the reviewer's eyes to the world of 2D stealth games. Twists and unexpected events in the narrative, along with an intriguing story and ending, caught players off guard. The visual presentation also contributed to the surprising experience.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is triggered by the game bringing back memories of classic stealth and action games like Splinter Cell, Prince of Persia, and Shinobi. It also reminds players of older mobile games from Ubisoft's Chinese studios.
- Interest (weight 0.01): Interest is sparked by New Game+ adding a challenging vision cone mechanic. The interesting storyline makes players want to see it through to the end.
- Delight (weight 0.01): Delight comes from the game being beautiful and fun. The poison kunai causing guards to lose their mind and shoot randomly before dying is a particularly delightful detail.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness arises from killing enemies and seeing their deaths, imagining they have families. This emotional response shows the game's ability to humanize even minor characters.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom is caused by stages in the early and mid-game having similar structures and feeling repetitive. Limited kill animations show the same death scenes repeatedly, and gameplay may become monotonous if not hooked early.
- Awe (weight 0.01): Awe is inspired by a story that leaves you saying wow, and the 2D game achieving an immersive atmosphere with ending music that gives goosebumps. The final chapter's artistic style and meaningful choice contribute to this feeling.
- Impressed (weight 0.01): Players are impressed by the production quality and stealth elements that outshine similar games. The accurate ninja simulation, visibility and hearing mechanics, and polished execution of 2D stealth showcase the game's high quality.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game stems from booby trap enemy items allowing more stealth trickery. It is considered one of the best indie titles recently, and the gameplay is something players haven't enjoyed in a long time.}