SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance
" Gorgeous action platformer with fluid combat and Metroidvania depth but punishing platforming "
SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance Review
SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance is a visually stunning action-platformer that pays homage to the classic Shinobi series while introducing modern gameplay elements. The hand-drawn art style and fluid animations are frequently praised for their beauty and smoothness, making it a perfect showcase for devices like the Steam Deck OLED. Combat is tight, fast-paced, and satisfying, with a variety of moves and combos that evolve throughout the game, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers. The game incorporates metroidvania-style exploration with unlockable abilities, encouraging revisits to earlier levels for secrets and upgrades.
However, the game is not without flaws. Many players find the platforming sections, especially the optional challenging ones, frustrating due to occasionally imprecise controls and punishing design. Some feel the story and voice acting are basic and the pacing uneven, with certain levels feeling empty or artificially lengthened. Despite these issues, the game offers a rewarding experience for those who enjoy classic side-scrollers with modern twists, particularly if purchased at a discount.
Highlights
Players consistently praise the game's gorgeous hand-drawn art style and smooth, fluid animations that bring the Shinobi universe to life.
The combat system is highly regarded for being fast, satisfying, and skill-based, with a good balance of accessibility and depth. The metroidvania elements add replay value and exploration incentives.
Nostalgic callbacks to the original Shinobi games and clever boss designs enhance the experience, while the game runs flawlessly on platforms like the Steam Deck at 60 FPS.
Criticisms
The platforming sections, especially later optional challenges, are often criticized for being overly difficult and frustrating due to control inconsistencies and punishing level design.
Some players find the story and dialogue simplistic, with bland voice acting and cutscenes.
The pacing can feel uneven, with some levels appearing empty or artificially extended, and the map/navigation system lacks fast travel convenience.
A few technical issues such as map bugs and occasional glitches were reported, though not widespread.
Pros
- • Gorgeous hand-drawn art and animations that stand out visually.
- • Fast, fluid, and satisfying combat mechanics with deep combos.
- • Metroidvania-style exploration adds depth and replay value.
- • Faithful nods to classic Shinobi games for nostalgic fans.
- • Smooth performance, especially on Steam Deck OLED at 60 FPS.
- • Well-designed boss fights that are memorable and fun.
- • Good level design with a mix of action and platforming.
Cons
- • Platforming sections can be frustrating and overly punishing.
- • Control inconsistencies cause unintended deaths in platforming.
- • Story and voice acting are simplistic and bland.
- • Some levels feel empty or artificially prolonged.
- • Lack of fast travel options in the map navigation.
- • Optional platforming challenges are excessively difficult.
- • Limited enemy variety with many palette swaps.
Rating Criteria
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.
