Info about SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance:

Official game description:
SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance Digital Deluxe Edition
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Purchase the SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance Digital Deluxe Edition and play the game 3 days early, receive the Starter Pack, Digital Art Book & Soundtrack, and SEGA Villains Stage, featuring bosses based on iconic SEGA villains.
It includes:
• Base Game
• Play the game 3 days early
• Digital Deluxe Season Pass:
o Starter Pack: the Ghost Outfit, the Medic Lite Amulet, and 2000 Gold
o SEGA Villains Stage (Coming Early 2026)
o Digital Art Book + Soundtrack
\*Gold is collected during gameplay and cannot be purchased separately.
About the Game
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**Pre-order SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance and receive a 10% discount, the Original Arcade Outfit, and Fortune Hunter Amulet.**
The iconic SHINOBI returns in an all-new 2D action platformer with a unique hand-drawn look created by the team behind the hit brawler Streets of Rage 4.
Play as the legendary Shinobi Joe Musashi, master of the ninja arts. After finding your village burned to the ground and your clan turned into stone, you must set off on a quest for vengeance, ready to face an unparalleled evil and avenge your clan.
• **EXECUTE THE NINJA ARTS WITH PRECISION**
Wield your vast ninja arsenal including the great Katana Oborozuki, Kunai, Ninjutsu arts, and Ninpo to vanquish your foes.
• **MASTER THE WAY OF THE SHINOBI**
Unleash limitless combos with unique combat moves, acquire Amulets for enhanced abilities, and discover Ningi tools to overcome obstacles and uncover new paths.
• **JOURNEY THROUGH A STYLISTIC NEW WORLD**
Venture through more than a dozen unique and visually striking stages, from military bases to a scorching desert, challenging platforming puzzles, and hidden secrets.

Release date: 28 Aug, 2025

Categories: 2D Platformer, Action Platformer, Metroidvania, Real-time Combat, Character Progression, Exploration, Single-player Story, Collectibles


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


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:
- Exceptional Gameplay Experience (weight 0.79): Players consistently praise the game's solid, responsive, and satisfying gameplay, highlighting its fluid combat, enjoyable progression, and overall high quality. Many found it exhilarating and a true modern take on the genre, surpassing even the demo's promise.
- Stunning Visuals and Art Style (weight 0.41): The game's hand-drawn, cel-shaded art style, animations, and character designs are universally lauded as outstanding, distinct, and a pleasure to behold. Reviewers frequently describe the visuals as magnificent, gorgeous, and a highlight of the game.
- Fluid and Satisfying Combat (weight 0.4): Combat is consistently described as excellent, unique, and immediately satisfying, with great feel and rich derivations. Players enjoy the fluid movements, impactful feedback, and the exhilarating experience of mastering combos.
- Outstanding 2D Side-Scrolling Action (weight 0.33): The game is celebrated as a top-tier 2D side-scrolling action game, offering refreshing combat, fast-paced action, and excellent controls. It successfully blends modern combat with retro platforming, evoking nostalgia while delivering a high-quality contemporary experience.
- High Polish and Smooth Performance (weight 0.28): The game is highly polished, with excellent sound design, voice acting, and smooth, fast-paced gameplay. Players reported no bugs, glitches, or crashes, indicating a robust and well-optimized experience.
- Well-Designed Levels and Challenges (weight 0.22): Levels are noted for being fun, challenging, and beautifully hand-drawn, with a well-crafted difficulty curve that adapts to the player. The platforming is impeccable, and level designs are expansive yet tight-knit, encouraging replayability.
- Balanced and Adjustable Difficulty (weight 0.14): The game offers a well-balanced and moderate difficulty curve for the main story and boss battles, making it accessible to a wide range of players. The ability to adjust difficulty in-game with various sliders is also appreciated.
- Superior to Similar Titles (weight 0.14): Reviewers frequently compare the game favorably to other titles like Ninja Gaiden and Streets of Rage 4, often stating it is far superior or a better value, especially for fans of classic ninja games.
- Precise and Fluid Controls (weight 0.13): Controls are consistently praised for being spot-on, tight, and fluid, allowing for speedy movement and comfortable platforming. The simple commands make the game easy to pick up and enjoy.
- Modernized Ninja Experience (weight 0.12): The game successfully embodies the essence of a ninja game, offering satisfying multiple ninja kills, cool character design, and incredible combos. It's seen as a worthy and modernized revival of the Shinobi experience.
- Strong Game of the Year Contender (weight 0.1): Many reviewers consider the game an absolute phenomenon and a strong contender for Game of the Year, highlighting its exceptional quality and remarkable experience.
- Rich Combat Depth and Options (weight 0.09): The game offers significant depth with multiple skills, weapons, and power-ups, allowing for impressive combos and player agency. The variety of combat options enhances engagement with enemies and bosses.
- Excellent Soundtrack (weight 0.08): The game's music is consistently described as excellent, superb, and a joy to listen to, perfectly complementing the amazing visuals and stylish combat.
- Engaging Joe Musashi Narrative (weight 0.08): The game features an engaging revenge story for Joe Musashi, with an attractive original Japanese voice actor that keeps players immersed. It's considered a worthy revival of the character.
- Accessible and Interesting (weight 0.07): The game is considered cool, interesting, and enjoyable even for players with zero experience. It modernizes and improves gameplay, offering good value for its price.

Common complaints:
- Frustrating Platforming & Map Design (weight 0.73): Players consistently report that platforming sections are poorly designed, frustrating, and overly prevalent, often leading to tedious backtracking and severe penalties for failure. The map design exacerbates these issues with poor guidance, lack of essential features, and frequent bugs.
- Poor Map Functionality (weight 0.18): The in-game map is heavily criticized for critical bugs, such as the player icon getting stuck or not displaying correctly. It also lacks basic features like dragging/moving and clear guidance, making navigation difficult and frustrating.
- Annoying UI/UX Elements (weight 0.16): Players are frustrated by mandatory, unskippable animations for switches, lack of clear indicators for switch functions, and inconvenient default keybindings that cannot be remapped. The parachute mechanics are also criticized for being unintuitive.
- Repetitive & Simple Bosses (weight 0.12): Boss encounters are described as lacking variety in movesets and overall design. Many players found them to be too simple, especially in earlier chapters, leading to a less engaging combat experience.
- Limited Combat & Enemy Variety (weight 0.11): The game suffers from a lack of diverse enemy types and repetitive combat encounters. Players desire more complex enemy AI and a greater challenge, suggesting a need for a New Game+ hard mode.
- Performance Issues & Denuvo (weight 0.11): Several players experienced significant performance problems, including low frame rates and stuttering, even on capable hardware. Denuvo is specifically cited as a potential cause for these optimization issues, making the game unplayable for some.
- Audio & Visual Glitches (weight 0.06): Players reported issues with inconsistent audio levels, random skips, and blurry visuals, particularly at 4K resolution and within the UI.
- Challenge Rooms Are Tedious (weight 0.06): The 'brutal challenge rooms' are described as relying too heavily on trial and error, making them frustrating and tedious rather than enjoyable.
- Inconsistent Difficulty & Pacing (weight 0.05): The game's difficulty is perceived as inconsistent, with some areas being too easy while others feel 'beyond scope' or block progress due to missing abilities, indicating poor pacing.
- Unsatisfying Metroidvania Elements (weight 0.04): The game's Metroidvania aspects, including exploration and backtracking, are found to be disappointing. The non-linear design often forces repetitive traversal, and the overall experience doesn't meet expectations for the genre.
- Achievement System Bugged (weight 0.04): There are reports of the achievement system not functioning correctly, with achievements failing to unlock for players.
- Translation Inaccuracies (weight 0.03): The Chinese translation is noted to be inconsistent with the Japanese voice acting, suggesting it was based on English subtitles rather than the original Japanese script.

Gameplay feedback:
- Metroidvania-style Level Design (weight 0.46): The game blends Metroidvania and belt-scroll action, featuring chapter-based 2D platforming levels with light Metroidvania elements. Players explore large stages, requiring new abilities to access previously unreachable areas and encouraging revisiting for full completion.
- Deep Combo Combat System (weight 0.25): Combat is combo-focused, emphasizing shield breaking and 'ninja kills' with agile moves and special techniques. The system allows for many combos, similar to Devil May Cry, and includes boss fights.
- Varied Platforming Mechanics (weight 0.18): The game features diverse platforming sections, including grappling hook segments, wall climbing, double jumps, and dashes. These mechanics are introduced progressively, often one per level, and contribute to smooth obstacle traversal.
- Adjustable Difficulty & Modes (weight 0.09): The game offers adjustable difficulty settings, an assist mode, and extra modes like Boss Rush and Arcade. Some brutal challenge rooms, however, are unaffected by accessibility settings.
- Secrets and Collectibles (weight 0.08): Levels are designed with many secrets, hidden areas, and collectibles such as combat points, treasure chests, and orbs. These encourage thorough exploration and often require specific abilities obtained later.
- Art Style and Music (weight 0.08): The game features a good art style with appealing character designs and dynamic ninja-style music, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience.
- Legacy and Influences (weight 0.07): The game is a modern reboot of an old IP, inheriting the side-scrolling style of MD Super Shinobi. It draws comparisons to other titles like Hollow Knight, Ori, and Mega Man X for its mechanics and exploration.
- Minor Gameplay Observations (weight 0.07): Some minor observations include slow flying object and enemy speeds, a challenging final boss, and a light equipment system. These points are based on limited feedback.
- Tutorials and Progression (weight 0.06): The game includes tutorials to teach new techniques and features a progression system with skill unlocks. Beginners can quickly get started with the mechanics.
- Thematic Elements (weight 0.06): The game includes a story and dialogue, with thematic elements such as Evangelions, the US Military, and tax evasion, which some reviewers found reminiscent of 'Mark of the Ninja'.
- Achievement System Bug (weight 0.02): There is a reported bug in the achievement system where achievements for earlier areas may not unlock if later ones are completed first.
- Visual Feedback (weight 0.01): Attacking straw dummies results in blood effects, providing visual feedback during combat.
- Shuriken Mechanic (weight 0.01): The game features shurikens as a combat mechanic.

Performance notes:
- Excellent Performance & Optimization (weight 0.1): Players consistently report that the full game runs smoothly at a stable 60FPS, even on devices like the Steam Deck and high-end PCs. The optimization is frequently praised as excellent, indicating a significant improvement over any previous versions.
- Demo Performance Issues (weight 0.05): The game's demo was noted for having severe lag issues, which contrasts sharply with the positive feedback for the full game. This suggests that performance has been significantly improved since the demo's release.

Recommendations:
- Highly Recommended Game (weight 0.37): Many players enthusiastically recommend the game, citing its enjoyable gameplay, good value for money, and appeal to fans of similar titles like Hollow Knight, Ori, and classic Shinobi games. It's seen as a refreshing action experience.
- Challenging Platforming Sections (weight 0.06): Players note that some platforming sections, particularly those involving grappling hooks, are very difficult. A suggestion was made to add more save points in these challenging areas to improve the experience.
- Positive Reinterpretation of Classic (weight 0.06): The game is praised as a successful reinterpretation of a classic, respecting its roots while offering a fresh future. It's considered an example of how remasters should be done.
- Mixed Map Design Feedback (weight 0.05): Feedback on map design is mixed, with one player giving a low score due to it, while another noted a map bug that was resolved by restarting. A strategic tip was given to ignore certain rooms early on.
- Performance Issues Reported (weight 0.05): Some players experienced lag, especially at level 2, which impacted their ability to play. They suggest waiting for optimization patches or considering a refund if issues persist.
- Demo Available for Trial (weight 0.04): Players are encouraged to try the game's demo before purchasing to see if it aligns with their preferences.
- Game Not for Everyone (weight 0.03): Despite overall positive reception, some players found the game not to their personal taste, leading to a 'no' recommendation from one reviewer.
- Developer Recognition Expected (weight 0.03): One reviewer expressed high hopes for the developers, expecting them to win awards and continue making high-quality games.
- Comparison to Mark of The Ninja (weight 0.02): The game is noted to be faster and less stealth-focused compared to Mark of The Ninja, offering a different gameplay feel.
- Refund Option Available (weight 0.02): A reminder that a refund system is available if players are not satisfied with their purchase.
- Negative Review Bombing (weight 0.02): One review, likely part of a review-bombing campaign, suggests renaming the game to '2D Video Game Flow Design Counter-Example' and calls it 'garbage'. This feedback is highly unconstructive.
- CDK Purchase Recommendation (weight 0.01): A specific recommendation was made to buy the CDK from Gamersky Mall for a 20% discount at launch.

Other player notes:
- Limited feedback provided (weight 0.13): Several clusters contained very sparse or non-actionable feedback, such as reviewer plans, personal preferences, or irrelevant details. These points offer minimal constructive insight for development.
- Game length is adequate (weight 0.1): Players report completing the main story in about 9.5 to 15 hours, with a full collection taking longer. This length is considered comparable to other games in the genre.
- Minimap bug needs fix (weight 0.05): Players encountered a minimap bug that could be temporarily resolved by quitting to the desktop or restarting the game. This suggests a recurring technical issue.
- Positive demo experience (weight 0.04): A player spent 6 hours in the demo, finding it covered the first area well and provided access to challenging parts, indicating a positive initial impression.
- Map improvement requested (weight 0.03): A player expressed a desire for developers to improve the game's map, indicating potential usability or clarity issues.
- Freezing issue needs fix (weight 0.03): A player hopes for a quick fix to a freezing issue, suggesting a significant technical problem impacting gameplay.
- Impressive Yamato scene (weight 0.02): The scene involving riding Yamato and running was highlighted as impressive, suggesting a memorable visual or gameplay moment.
- Visuals resemble Switch games (weight 0.02): One player noted that the game's visual style is reminiscent of titles found on the Nintendo Switch, offering a perspective on its aesthetic.
- Game feels like Strider (weight 0.02): A player compared the game experience to playing Strider, providing a reference point for its gameplay style.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.36): Players are highly satisfied with the game's exceptional art style, fluid and responsive combat, and engaging exploration. The polished gameplay, smooth controls, and well-balanced difficulty contribute to a consistently positive experience, often described as 'masterclass' and 'almost flawless'.
- Excitement (weight 0.19): Excitement stems from the game's overall high quality, dynamic gameplay, and excellent combat system, leading many to consider it a 'game of the year contender'. The fluid action, engaging visuals, and the successful return of the Shinobi IP contribute to a phenomenal and exhilarating experience.
- Frustration (weight 0.14): Frustration primarily arises from difficult and excessive platforming sections, often featuring pixel-perfect jumps, severe failure penalties, and a lack of save points. Technical issues like map bugs, poor optimization, and control problems also contribute to player annoyance.
- Disappointment (weight 0.06): Players express disappointment with repetitive combat encounters, issues with map design, and a perceived lack of challenge or poor design in certain areas. Technical limitations like the absence of ultrawide support or blurry 4K visuals also contribute to this feeling.
- Joy (weight 0.05): Joy is frequently linked to the fun and satisfying combat experience, as well as the overall enjoyment of playing a modern Shinobi game. The flashy gameplay and engaging visuals contribute to a generally positive and enjoyable experience.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.04): Nostalgia is a strong emotion, driven by the game's successful revival of the Shinobi IP, reminding players of their childhood experiences with classic games. The art style and faithful interpretation of the original series evoke fond memories.
- Anger (weight 0.03): Anger is directed at perceived poor design choices, particularly regarding 'f***ing jumping puzzles' and map design, which some players feel are forced and poorly implemented in a combat-focused game. Suspected quick ports for profit and game-breaking bugs also fuel this emotion.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Admiration is expressed for the developers' understanding of pacing, the game's high quality, and its superior design compared to predecessors. The visual style, combat, and controls are frequently praised as excellent.
- Awe (weight 0.02): Awe is inspired by the game's stunning animation and art style, beautiful stages, and the incredible, swift ninja combos. The visual and combat presentation are often described as breathtaking.
- Mild frustration (weight 0.01): Mild frustration stems from minor issues such as a 'strange dodge feel,' repetitive tutorials, translation discrepancies, and inconvenient respawn points after dying to traps. Armored enemies and hidden level design quirks also contribute to slight annoyance.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Players express hope for quick fixes to bugs, improvements to the map design, and future game enhancements, including the addition of a New Game+ hard mode.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.01): Enjoyment is derived from the engaging combat system and the satisfaction of unlocking new abilities, contributing to a positive overall game experience.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are surprised by the game's shift towards Metroidvania elements and its labyrinthine level design, indicating unexpected gameplay directions.
- Mild disappointment (weight 0.01): Mild disappointment is noted regarding average map design, the soundtrack, and the overall difficulty, suggesting these aspects did not fully meet expectations.
- Disgust (weight 0): Disgust is specifically directed at the boss designs, indicating a strong negative reaction to this particular aspect of the game.
- Curiosity (weight 0): Curiosity is expressed about the potential for other Sega IP revivals, suggesting an interest in future projects based on the success of this game.
- Love (weight 0): Love is specifically attributed to the game's hand-drawn art style, highlighting a strong appreciation for its visual aesthetics.
- Anticipation (weight 0): Anticipation is mentioned in the context of waiting for another game (Silksong), indicating a broader interest in similar titles.
- Recommendation (weight 0): The game receives a recommendation due to a perceived similarity in combat feel to another well-regarded game, suggesting it appeals to fans of similar titles.
- Amusement (weight 0): Amusement is specifically noted regarding the attractiveness of the final boss, indicating a positive and perhaps unexpected reaction to its design.}