In the 2D action platformer genre filled with pixel art and nostalgia, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance slices through with precision and style that sees the return of the iconic Joe Musashi as he aims to take revenge on Lord Ruse and the ENE Corporation for ravaging his village.

The beautifully hand-drawn art style is a bold and modern reimagining of the classic Ninja tale that emphasizes combo-driven combat, responsive and intuitive controls, and a world that rewards mastery and replayability.

It’s been years since a brand-new SHINOBI game has come out, and whether you’re a seasoned action gamer or a newcomer, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance offers a gameplay experience that’s deep, exhilarating, and perfect for 2D action game fans.

SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance is a Masterclass in Fast-paced Combat And Satisfying Gameplay

The first thing players will notice is the gorgeous hand-drawn visuals leaping at them as if straight from a painting. From the fireworks of the Lantern Festival, the neon-soaked signs of Neo City, to the dark and gritty underbelly of the ENE Corp Laboratory, each level is oozing with style, with Lord Ruse’s forces on the lookout and ready to bring the fight to Musashi at every opportunity. The game’s stunning visuals feel like the crowning achievement of Ben Fiquet, art director at Lizardcube, whose background in traditional 2D animation and love for Japanese pop culture shine through in every frame.

As good as SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance looks, gameplay is where the title excels, delivering combat that demands creativity and precision from the player. At the heart of it lies a combat system that is reminiscent of a dance of blades and techniques that offer a cinematic quality to disposing of threats. The combo system encourages experimentation, rewarding players who mix light and heavy attacks in between dashes and juggles, going with the flow, and learning enemy patterns rather than button-mashing their way to success.

SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance gives Joe Musashi an arsenal of moves at his disposal to take on Lord Ruse. From basic maneuvers to screen-clearing techniques, understanding when and how to apply them will be crucial in overcoming the assault of the ENE forces.

As Joe Musashi battles through enemy ranks, players can harness their power by absorbing damage or collecting rage orbs, gradually filling a gauge that, once full, can unleash one of four screen-clearing Ninjutsu techniques that deliver devastating impact and cinematic flair. When in a pinch, Karyu can ignite and damage all enemies onscreen with a fiery blaze, while Shisui can heal most wounds and ensure that Musashi can live on to fight another day.

Complementing this is Ninpo, a set of elemental attacks charged by attacking enemies, offering powerful bursts of fire and water that can shift the tide in chaotic encounters. The Fire Ninpo can set enemies ablaze while dealing heavy damage, while the Thunder Ninpo can strike enemies with lightning speed that is useful for setting them up with a SHINOBI Execution.

Meanwhile, Ningi techniques improve Joe’s exploration capabilities that can break walls, scale terrain, and traverse to previously unreachable locations. Specially marked walls and ceilings are nothing to the Ninja Claws, while armored walls can be broken down by the mighty Cannon Punch, opening up more pathways for exploration that may uncover a secret or two.

Beyond the flashy finishers, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance‘s core combat moves keep the action tight and responsive. Standard attacks require no gauge or special conditions, allowing an unfiltered beatdown on opposing threats in an instant, but players would be wise to take advantage of the Execution Gauge that allows for dramatically impressive instant kills that yield greater rewards.

Shuriken and heavy strikes are especially effective for building this gauge, and with enough practice, players can effortlessly execute enemies with a combination of Joe Musashi’s techniques, resulting in a combat rhythm that rewards precision, timing, and creativity.

Progressing in SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance will see Joe Musashi explore various levels, which are almost as important as taking down opposing forces. Levels are designed with verticality, secret paths, and environmental puzzles that hold many collectibles and challenges that can make even the most seasoned ninja break a sweat.

Scattered throughout the world are Oboro Relics, which, when collected, unlock more powerful techniques for sale at the shop, all of which are crucial against the ENE Corp. There are also Elite Squads waiting in the wings to give Musashi a combat challenge that will test everything that he’s learned so far.

Perhaps, the pinnacle challenges are hidden inside the Ankou Rifts, which blend combat and platforming prowess and reward players with the ultimate tool to take on Lord Ruse when completed. These challenges are not the usual fare and will require precision with every step and slash, ensuring that the legendary weapon can only be claimed by someone who has mastered what the game has to offer.

Completionists will find joy in uncovering every secret, while speedrunners will appreciate the game’s tight design that rewards their dedication despite its relatively short runtime.

Tying everything together is the game’s inclination for mastery. While accessible for newcomers, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance challenges players to learn and adapt to the challenges facing them, overcoming these by putting into practice an understanding of its many mechanics and systems.

Despite the challenge, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance never feels unfair, and every death feels like a lesson that pushes players to try once again, taking a step closer to completion every time. With the game’s reliance on precision, the controls are equally as intuitive and responsive, ensuring players are always fighting against ENE Corp but never against themselves.

Whether you’re here for the combos, the visuals, or just the thrill of mastering a beautifully crafted combat system, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance delivers on every front.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance will launch on August 29, 2025, for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.

A Digital Deluxe Edition is also available, offering various in-game items along with 3 days of early access. Also, check out the Free Demo across all platforms!