NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound
" Thrilling action-adventure with fluid combat and pixel art, but a relatively short campaign "
NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound Review
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is a modern 2D side-scrolling action platformer that successfully channels the spirit of the classic NES Ninja Gaiden games with a fresh, fluid combat system and stunning pixel art. Developed by The Game Kitchen, known for Blasphemous, the game offers fast-paced gameplay with responsive controls and a satisfying blend of close-range and ranged combat between two characters, Kenji and Kumori. The game features a variety of vibrant environments, a memorable soundtrack, and a story that expands the Ninja Gaiden universe beyond Ryu Hayabusa.
Players praise its nostalgic appeal, smooth mechanics, and replayability through optional challenges and a hard mode that changes enemy behavior and level design. However, some note the game is relatively short (around 8 hours for the main story) and has minor performance issues on some platforms. While the difficulty is fair and accessible, the game sometimes suffers from inconsistent pacing and underdeveloped platforming sections. Overall, it's a polished, enjoyable homage to classic 2D ninja action with modern polish.
Highlights
The game is highly praised for its fluid and responsive combat mechanics that blend traditional Ninja Gaiden action with new moves like the Guillotine jump and hypercharge attacks.
Graphically, the pixel art is considered detailed and vibrant, with smooth animations and beautifully designed levels that evoke classic 8-bit and 16-bit aesthetics.
The soundtrack and sound design receive strong commendations for enhancing the game's atmosphere and paying homage to the original Ninja Gaiden themes.
The storyline introduces new protagonists and expands the lore while maintaining the series' tone, offering an engaging narrative experience for fans and newcomers alike.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's short length, with some players finishing the main story in about 4 to 8 hours, though additional content and hard mode add replay value.
Some players find the difficulty inconsistent, with early levels more challenging than later stages, and certain platforming sections feeling underdeveloped or too easy.
The reliance on specific enemy kill orders to charge attacks can feel restrictive and repetitive, reducing enemy variety and engagement.
Minor performance issues such as occasional frame drops and audio bugs have been reported on both PC and Steam Deck.
Finally, some players note that hard mode unlocks only after the first playthrough, limiting initial challenge options.
Pros
- • Fluid and responsive combat mechanics with diverse moveset.
- • Beautifully crafted pixel art and detailed animations.
- • Engaging soundtrack that complements gameplay perfectly.
- • Nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans of classic Ninja Gaiden.
- • Varied and colorful level design keeps gameplay visually interesting.
- • Two playable characters with complementary combat styles.
- • Hard mode changes enemy behavior and level design for replayability.
Cons
- • Relatively short main campaign may leave players wanting more.
- • Inconsistent difficulty curve with some easy platforming sections.
- • Enemy variety and combat depth could be expanded.
- • Hard mode unlocks only after completing the game once.
- • Certain boss fights and late-game sections can feel frustrating.
- • Performance issues like frame drops and audio bugs reported.
- • Some gameplay elements feel half-baked or underdeveloped.
Rating Criteria
A brand-new side-scrolling entry to the NINJA GAIDEN series from the team behind Blasphemous, NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound redefines the classic platformer saga in a spectacular, thrilling and challenging ninja adventure.
