It has been a while since Streets of Rage 4, and now, the latest game from French studio Lizardcube is here – Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. This is similar in a way to the studio’s previous game, as it’s a revival of an old (but classic) SEGA franchise. After getting to experience the game, we can safely say that Lizardcube has now proven itself to be a top-notch action game developer.
For those unfamiliar, Shinobi is an arcade-style sidescrolling action platformer series from SEGA that was quite popular in the 90s during the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive era. Since Shinobi 3D for the 3DS back in 2011 though, the franchise has basically been in hibernation mode. Finally, the series is being brought back, and having Lizardcube develop the latest series entry makes a lot of sense.
That’s because Lizardcube has already succeeded in bringing back Streets of Rage, another classic SEGA franchise with arcade roots. Streets of Rage 4 was released in 2020, and it received praise for how it stays true to the spirit and style of the older games, all while adding new gameplay elements (like more character-specific combos and a special move system) that make the combat deeper.
For Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Lizardcube has done it again. That’s because this new Shinobi game perfectly balances bringing back signature series mechanics with modern elements, making for a combat system that’s accessible while still having plenty of depth.
Easy to learn, rewarding to master
The previous Shinobi games are fast-paced action platformers, and this game is no different. In Art of Vengeance, you’ll need to face off against plenty of mobs along with some powerful bosses. At no point did these combat encounters feel dull, as the game simply felt great to play.
What’s great is that this is an accessible game even for newer players, as the combat moves are simple enough to execute, all while looking flashy in the process. In that sense, this game is quite easy to learn, and we imagine that the game’s combat will easily click with most players. What also adds to the experience is that attacks look and feel impactful, making the act of defeating enemies even more satisfying (especially when you do Shinobi Executions).
It’s definitely simple to pick up, but this is balanced by the fact that you can do plenty of flashy combos. As you play the game, you’ll discover that the game’s combo system is quite extensive, meaning you’ll be rewarded when you put in the effort of learning and mastering the various attack strings that you can do. As such, this game is easy to pick up and play while still having plenty of depth to give you a reason to master the mechanics.
To keep things fresh, various moments in the game are straight out of a classic arcade game. For instance, one scenario sees the player fall off a bridge. While falling, you must climb up falling debris while fighting enemies along the way. This is just one of the many memorable parts of the game’s varied levels that we loved.
Speaking of levels, while this game is divided into multiple levels, Art of Vengeance integrates an array of Metroidvania elements. For instance, each of the game’s levels is one big map with various branching paths, similar to a Metroidvania map. This encourages exploration, especially as these optional paths often contain useful items like Amulets (for enhanced abilities) and Ningi tools (which let players go through obstacles). Thanks to these elements, the game not only gets fresh twists, but it also makes the new Shinobi title a great entry-level Metroidvania, at least for those new to the genre.
Given that its gameplay integrates Metroidvania elements while still keeping the core arcade identity of the Shinobi games, Lizardcube has once again delivered on the gameplay front. That’s not the only aspect that they did well in though, as this new game also has eye-catching visuals and excellent audio.
Great 2D visuals with an excellent Japanese dub
For this new Shinobi game, Lizardcube was heavily inspired by the first three games in the franchise, meaning it features a decidedly 2D style. That’s not to say that it has a simple look though. Art of Vengeance has plenty of striking art, whether it’s the characters or the environments that they inhabit.
There are references to the original game here, like the inclusion of a bamboo forest level. On the flip side, there are fresh new additions like a cyberpunk-inspired level. On the whole, the game’s art is still grounded in Japanese mythos, all while featuring Lizardcube’s visual flair.
On the topic of flair, the game’s visual effects are also flashy eye-candy, but what’s great is that the flashiness does not come at the cost of clutter. Some games can overdo the effects; thankfully, that’s not the case here, as you can still clearly see your and your enemies’ attacks even with all the impressive animation happening on the screen.
Also worth noting is that the game’s soundtrack is great, adding to the overall experience. Plus, we tried the game in its Japanese dub, and we think that the voice cast knocked it out of the park. While this may not seem like a story-driven game from the outside, the game’s story is quite gripping, and this is thanks in large part to the voice work.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is another excellent release from Lizardcube
After pulling off a successful action game franchise revival with Streets of Rage 4, the studio has done it again with Art of Vengeance. Not only did this new Shinobi game keep the core identity of the series intact, but it also added some unique twists (like the Metroidvania elements) along with modern enhancements, making it an action game that’s well worth experiencing for genre fans. It also helps that the game’s visuals are excellent accompaniments to the gripping action combat system.
With Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Lizardcube has proven itself to be an excellent developer of action games. As such, we’re definitely looking forward to the studio’s future games.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance launches on August 29 on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Though the game is available now for those with the Digital Deluxe Edition.