NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black
" Visually impressive action-adventure with deep combat and dynamic movement but frustrating camera issues "
NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black Review
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is a remastered action game that offers fast-paced, high-skill hack-and-slash gameplay with visually enhanced graphics using Unreal Engine 5. Players appreciate the deep combat mechanics, weapon variety, and brutal gore effects, which maintain the franchise's legacy. The game is challenging and rewarding for those who master its combos and timing, with replayability through different difficulty modes and chapter challenges. However, it is not a definitive version of the original Ninja Gaiden 2, as it resembles more the Sigma 2 iteration with altered enemy layouts and removed bosses.
Despite the graphical overhaul, the game suffers from significant issues including an infamously problematic camera system, input delays, and occasional performance hiccups even on high-end PCs. Many players find the boss fights frustrating due to design and balance problems. The story is considered weak and cheesy, failing to engage most players. Overall, the game is enjoyable for fans of the series or genre but falls short of expectations as a definitive remaster and is better suited for purchase on sale.
Highlights
Players praise the game's core combat system for its depth, fast pace, and satisfying combos, making it a standout hack-and-slash experience. The graphics upgrade to Unreal Engine 5 is visually impressive, delivering enhanced gore and detailed environments. The variety of weapons and movesets adds strategic layers to gameplay. Additionally, the game offers high replayability with multiple difficulty levels, NG+ modes, and challenges. Fans of the Ninja Gaiden franchise find the brutal action and traversal mechanics highly engaging, capturing the essence of the series.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus heavily on the camera system, which many find frustrating and detrimental to gameplay. Input lag and occasional performance issues also mar the experience. Boss fights are often seen as poorly designed, relying on exploitative strategies rather than skillful engagement. The game removes some content from previous versions, disappointing longtime fans. The story is described as weak, cheesy, and lacking depth. Some players note the game feels repetitive over time, with enemy variety and level design becoming bland in later chapters. The price is considered steep given these issues.
Pros
- • Deep and satisfying combat mechanics with a variety of weapons and combos.
- • Visually impressive graphics and gore effects powered by Unreal Engine 5.
- • High replayability through multiple difficulty modes and NG+ content.
- • Fast-paced hack-and-slash action true to the Ninja Gaiden legacy.
- • Improved performance and bug fixes over original editions on PC.
- • Traversal mechanics like wall running add dynamic movement options.
- • Enjoyable for fans of challenging, skill-based action games.
Cons
- • Infamously problematic camera system that hinders gameplay.
- • Input delay and occasional performance issues even on powerful PCs.
- • Boss fights often feel frustrating and poorly balanced.
- • Removes some content and bosses from original Ninja Gaiden 2.
- • Weak, cheesy story with little emotional engagement.
- • Repetitive enemy types and level design in later chapters.
- • Lack of modern combat conveniences like enemy lock-on.
Rating Criteria
Using Unreal Engine 5 to significantly enhance graphic expression, this is the definitive version of "NINJA GAIDEN 2," featuring additional playable characters and enhanced battle support functions.
