Ninja Issen blends the nostalgia of classic 8-16 bit era ninja titles with a futuristic, cyberpunk setting. Developed by a single person, this game has captured the attention of the gaming community for its impressive design and challenging gameplay. You navigate Kiba, a rogue ninja falsely accused of assassinating his clan’s grandmaster, through a neon-lit metropolis, using a variety of ninja skills to survive against numerous enemies and bosses.

Fast-Paced Hyper-Action Gameplay

The game’s strength lies in its fast-paced, hyper-action gameplay. Players engage in 1 vs. many battles, utilizing Kiba’s abilities, including his katana for close combat, shurikens for long-range attacks, and teleportation for maneuverability. This array of weapons allows for a dynamic combat experience where players can develop their unique fighting styles. The retro graphics add to the charm, creating a dark, immersive atmosphere reminiscent of old-school ninja games.

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Stunning Retro Graphics

The retro graphics in Ninja Issen add to its charm, creating a dark, immersive atmosphere reminiscent of old-school ninja games. The neon-lit metropolis is visually striking, blending the nostalgia of classic ninja games with a futuristic, cyberpunk twist. The detailed pixel art and smooth animations make every movement and attack feel satisfying.

High Difficulty and Intense Boss Battles

However, Ninja Issen is not without its flaws. Some players have noted the game’s high difficulty level, which can be frustrating and impede smooth progression. The challenge is particularly evident in boss battles, which feature complex and aggressive attack patterns, sometimes changing midway as the boss enters a new phase. While this adds to the game’s intensity, it may not be suitable for all players, especially those new to the genre.

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Underdeveloped Storyline

Additionally, the game’s story and world-building could benefit from further development. The plot, though intriguing, feels somewhat underexplored, leaving players wanting more depth and backstory. The cyberpunk setting, while visually appealing, could be better integrated into the narrative to enhance the overall experience.

Conclusion

In summary, Ninja Issen is a commendable effort, especially considering its solo development. It offers a thrilling experience for fans of retro-style ninja games, with challenging gameplay and a unique cyberpunk twist. While it may be too demanding for some, its action-packed battles and nostalgic charm make it a game worth trying for enthusiasts of the genre.

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Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Pro Tip for Beginners: Utilize Kiba’s teleportation ability strategically. It’s not just a means to traverse environments but a critical tool in combat to outmaneuver and surprise enemies, especially during intense boss battles.

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Ninja Issen delivers nostalgic charm and challenging gameplay, but its high difficulty and underdeveloped storyline might not appeal to all players. Hardcore fans of retro ninja games will find it thrilling, but it may be a tough climb for newbies.

View Ninja Issen on Steam

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