Ninja Gaiden 2 Black Review (PS5)
Summary: Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is a hot tub ninja time machine with next-gen ninja graphics!
3.75
Graphical facelift!
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is a faithful recreation of the 2008 classic, Ninja Gaiden 2, enhanced using Unreal Engine 5. This remaster combines the base game content with additional features from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering a comprehensive experience for both veterans and newcomers. Sigma adds Momiji, Rachel and Ayame plus new boss battles which really makes this the definitive version of Ninja Gaiden 2.
The story follows Ryu Hayabusa, a deadly ninja on a quest for revenge and honor as he attempts to retrieve a stolen statue from the nefarious Black Spider Clan who threaten to overrun the world with fiends. While the plot is straightforward, it serves as a backdrop for the intense action and beautifully designed cutscenes. The combination of feudal Japanese aesthetics with cyberpunk elements creates a unique and engaging world.
The core gameplay remains true to the original, with fast-paced, brutal combat using a variety of weapons like Japanese swords, shurikens, and tonfas. The game features a “Hero Play Style” mode for beginners, providing automatic support during intense moments. Players can also control additional characters like Momiji, Ayane, and Rachel, adding more depth to the gameplay.
With that said, you can feel the template of the original 2008 game in play which does feel a little constrained and repetitive at times, particularly with the endless re-spawning enemies. Nonetheless, there is still something totally satisfying with the overall gameplay – especially with the boss battles.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black also includes extra content from previous iterations, such as co-op missions and bonus optional content. The remaster also features enhanced gore elements, including dismemberment and blood effects, which can be toggled on and off in the options menu.
The remaster boasts stunning visuals, thanks to Unreal Engine 5. Character models, environmental backgrounds, and effects have been meticulously refined. The game supports both 60FPS and 120FPS modes, with the latter providing a smoother experience on PlayStation 5 Pro.
However, some minor graphical issues, such as visual artifacting and missing weapon models, were observed during the initial hours of gameplay. And, uhmm… the breasts physics still remain in play… Music, sound effects also suit the premise well as does the sometimes clichéd and over the top voice acting which is a staple of these games.
Final Thoughts?
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is a solid recreation of the original game, offering improved visuals and additional features. While it stays true to the challenge and feel of the original, some minor graphical issues and the high difficulty level may deter some players. Overall, it’s a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Game Details
Developer: Team NINJA
Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Platform: PlayStation 5
Release Date: January 23, 2025
Genre: Hack and Slash/Beat ’em up
ESRB: M (Mature)
MSRP: $49.99
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