Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, developed by Lizardcube in collaboration with Sega, revives the Shinobi franchise on Nintendo Switch as a modern 2D action-platformer. Players control Joe Musashi on a vengeance-driven quest against ENE Corp, combining fast side-scrolling combat with Metroidvania exploration and character upgrades. Key offerings include hand-drawn 2D visuals, katanas and Ninjutsu arts, and more than a dozen varied stages. The game targets fans of classic Shinobi and players who value skill-focused, exploration-minded action.

What kind of game is Shinobi: Art of Vengeance?

In this game, you take the role of Joe Musashi and follow a revenge narrative after the Oboro Clan is attacked by ENE Corp. The core loop pairs high-speed, side-scrolling combat with exploration, encouraging players to fight, search for secrets, and return to cleared areas. The design explicitly blends the series' arcade roots with modern progression, so encounters demand timing, weapon choice and use of Ninpo abilities.

Does it offer distinct modes and meaningful upgrades?

In this game, the structure separates a story-driven exploration mode from a more traditional challenge. The release includes a Story Mode that encourages exploration and an unlockable Arcade Mode for players seeking classic difficulty. Customization comes through Amulets and upgrades, which alter Musashi's abilities. Key progression elements:

• Equippable Amulets that change stats
• Upgrade paths that enhance weapon and Ninpo power

What does the game look and feel like in action?

In this game, the visual identity is a major focus, with a hand-drawn 2D aesthetic created by the team behind Streets of Rage 4 and fluid animation throughout. Boss encounters scale from military commanders to guest Sega villains, producing set-piece fights. Critics and players singled out art direction and responsive controls, which supports precise inputs during fast combos and platforming sections, keeping combat readable even in dense enemy scenarios.

How steep is the learning curve and what drives replayability?

In this game, challenge is built into the design; it consciously echoes the franchise's demanding arcade heritage while offering modern exploration. The unlockable Arcade Mode supplies a more linear, high-difficulty route for purists. Replay value arrives from hidden secrets across more than a dozen stages and a crossover Sega Villains expansion that adds new boss encounters. A demo on the Nintendo eShop lets players sample the opening stage before committing.

A focused revival for players who favour demanding 2D action

Shinobi is a confident franchise return suited to players who enjoy skill-based, precision combat and exploratory stage design, and to fans of the original series. Its design rewards deliberate practice and repeated runs. However, its alignment with arcade-style challenge and unlockable classic mode means it fits best for dedicated sessions rather than brief, casual play.