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Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Item: Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAction, Single Player

AvailableAug 29, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperLizardcube

Overview

Slay the enemies in the silence of the moment. Run through the world of Shinobi full of monsters and ninja actions. Grab Oborozuki, the legendary sword, and slay evil once more. Your clan and the world are counting on you.

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Release Countdown

days

hours

minutes

seconds

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance drops in a few days! Time to perfect your "I'm sick" voice!

2 days until Shinobi: Art of Vengeance hits the shelves!

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance offers a mixed bag of storytelling; while the engaging premise of Joe Musashi’s revenge quest is praised for its immersive elements like portraits and voice acting, many critics find the execution lacking and conventional. With a predictable plot and underwhelming characters, the narrative serves mainly as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a standout feature, leaving it as a decent yet unremarkable aspect of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is mixed, with several critics noting some positives. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and Final Weapon, highlight the engaging premise of Joe Musashi's quest for vengeance, which effectively serves as a backdrop for the gameplay. The inclusion of well-drawn portraits, voice acting, and illustrated scenes, as mentioned by IGN Benelux and GamersRD, adds depth to the narrative experience, making it more immersive. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and WellPlayed appreciate the lighthearted elements and humor interspersed throughout the story, suggesting that while the narrative may not be groundbreaking, it still manages to entertain and align with the series' legacy. However, a significant number of reviewers express disappointment with the narrative's execution. Critics such as GameSpot and Checkpoint Gaming describe the story as conventional and lacking in fresh ideas, with many noting that it feels "by-the-numbers." The absence of compelling characters and surprises is a recurring theme, as highlighted by GameSpot and GAMES.CH, who find the storyline somewhat negligible despite its engaging premise. Furthermore, several critics, including Meristation and IGN Spain, agree that while the narrative fulfills its role, it is not the game's strong point and may not win any awards for its script. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Shinobi: Art of Vengeance presents a straightforward and engaging narrative centered on revenge, it ultimately falls short of delivering a deeply compelling story. Many reviewers, such as Shacknews and Push Square, emphasize that the narrative serves primarily as a framework for the gameplay rather than a standout feature. The critics collectively suggest that while the story has its moments of intrigue and charm, it lacks the depth and originality needed to elevate it beyond a simple revenge tale, leaving it as a decent but unremarkable aspect of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a standout in the action-platformer genre, praised for its fluid combat, deep combos, and engaging exploration. Critics celebrate the game's responsive mechanics and intricate level design, blending linear paths with Metroidvania elements. However, some issues like input inconsistencies, backtracking, and repetitive level design raise concerns. Despite these drawbacks, the overall gameplay experience is compelling, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its fluidity, responsiveness, and depth. Reviewers like GameSpot and IGN praised the game's combat mechanics, noting the variety of traversal options and the ability to execute deep combos, which contribute to an engaging and rewarding experience. Critics such as Digital Chumps and WellPlayed emphasized the intricate level design and tight platforming, which encourage exploration and skillful movement. The blend of traditional level-based design with Metroidvania elements, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and Multiplayer.it, allows players to enjoy both linear paths and expansive exploration, further enhancing the gameplay experience. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out issues that can disrupt the flow of gameplay. ComicBook mentioned input issues and inconsistencies that could affect the overall experience, while GamingTrend highlighted that backtracking might detract from the game's pacing. Jeuxvideo.com noted some repetitive level design and a less engaging platforming aspect, suggesting that while the combat is rich, the overall level design could benefit from more variety. Critics like Shacknews also warned that penalties for mistakes could be harsh, potentially frustrating players during challenging sections. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shinobi: Art of Vengeance offers a compelling and satisfying gameplay experience, with many reviewers expressing that it successfully combines action, platforming, and exploration. The majority of critics, including Carole Quintaine and IGN Benelux, found the gameplay to be both accessible and deep, allowing players to engage with the combat system in a variety of ways. While there are some criticisms regarding input issues and level design, the positive aspects of fluid combat and responsive controls dominate the discourse, making it clear that the game is well-received and stands out in the action-platformer genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance wows critics with its breathtaking hand-drawn visuals and vibrant aesthetics, blending European and Japanese influences for a nostalgic yet modern feel. Praise pours in for its rich detail and fluid animations, making it a visual masterpiece in the 2D action genre. Minor critiques exist—fuzzy cutscene details and obstructive foreground objects—but they hardly tarnish the game’s acclaim. Overall, it’s celebrated as a benchmark for future titles, showcasing exceptional artistic talent and creativity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently praise its stunning hand-drawn art style and vibrant aesthetics. Reviewers from GameSpot and IGN highlight the game's captivating blend of European and Japanese influences, creating a nostalgic yet modern visual experience. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected commend the breathtaking art style and fluid animations, emphasizing the richly detailed environments that enhance immersion. The diverse artistic direction, characterized by painterly backgrounds and dynamic lighting, is noted by Game Informer and Meristation, making it one of the most visually appealing games of the year. Overall, the game's visuals are described as a masterclass in art direction, showcasing the developers' talent and creativity. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics have pointed out minor drawbacks in the visual design. For instance, Push Square notes that some cutscene details can appear fuzzy, which slightly detracts from the overall polish of the visuals. Shacknews mentions that certain foreground objects may obstruct gameplay, potentially impacting the player's experience during critical moments. While these critiques are relatively minor, they highlight that even within a largely praised visual framework, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. The overall consensus among critics is that Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a masterpiece in terms of graphics and visual design. With the majority of reviewers expressing admiration for its stunning visuals, the game is lauded for its ability to create a unique identity through its vibrant hand-drawn art style and detailed environments. Critics like Digital Chumps and Final Weapon emphasize the game's remarkable aesthetic, solidifying its status as a standout title in the realm of 2D action games. Ultimately, the game's visual artistry not only enhances the gameplay experience but also establishes it as a benchmark for future titles in the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" features standout sound design and music, earning rave reviews for its nostalgic 90s roots blended with modern elements. Critics praise the exceptional collaboration between composers Yuzo Koshiro and Tee Lopes, creating a rich auditory experience that enhances gameplay. While some minor critiques exist, the overwhelming consensus is that the audio significantly immerses players, making it a vital aspect of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its effective integration into the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Carole Quintaine and COGconnected, praised the soundtrack for its ability to resonate with the game's nostalgic 90s roots while simultaneously evolving from the original music. Critics like Digital Chumps and IGN Benelux noted the successful blending of modern elements with traditional sounds, creating a rich auditory landscape that enhances gameplay. The collaboration between renowned composers Yuzo Koshiro and Tee Lopes was particularly highlighted by GamersRD and Stevivor, emphasizing the exceptional quality of the music, which combines traditional Japanese influences with contemporary instrumentation. Overall, the sound design has been described as satisfying and well-executed, with effective sound effects that contribute positively to the atmosphere, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com and ScreenHub. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, there were a few critiques that pointed to areas for improvement. Notably, Voxel's review did not mention the soundtrack at all, suggesting a potential oversight or lack of impact in the audio design for some players. While most critics found the music to be engaging and complementary to the gameplay, there may be a minority who feel that the audio elements did not resonate as strongly as intended. However, these negative points were minimal compared to the overall praise. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" are standout features that significantly enhance the gaming experience. With nearly all reviewers, including Forbes and TechRadar Gaming, lauding the quality and execution of the soundtrack, it is clear that the audio elements play a crucial role in immersing players in the game's world. The combination of nostalgic and modern influences, along with the high-caliber contributions from established composers, has resulted in a musical experience that resonates well with both new players and fans of the original series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" boasts strong voice acting that enhances the game's narrative, praised by critics for its depth and quality in both English and Japanese. However, the main character, Joe Musashi, suffers from minimal vocalization—mostly grunts—which detracts from his character development and divides opinion among players. While the supporting cast shines, Musashi's sparse dialogue may leave some craving more depth. Overall, the voice acting is enjoyable but may not satisfy all players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting its strong performances and contributions to the game's narrative. Reviewers such as Forbes and Final Weapon commend the voice acting for adding depth and personality to the characters, enhancing the overall storytelling experience. The game features fully voiced characters, with high-quality performances in both English and Japanese, as noted by GAMES.CH and GamersRD. Critics like Noisy Pixel and WellPlayed also appreciate the strong voice direction that enriches the narrative, while some reviewers, such as IGN Benelux, find that the voice acting complements the game's absurdity, adding to its charm. Despite the overall praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the main character, Joe Musashi, whose limited vocalization primarily consists of grunts. Critics like Digital Chumps and Shacknews point out that this minimalistic approach can detract from the depth of the character, with IGN describing it as lacking in traditional voice acting. While some reviewers, such as PlayStation Universe, find humor in Musashi's sparse dialogue, others express that it may not resonate with players looking for more robust character development. Additionally, WellPlayed mentions inconsistencies in pronunciation among characters, which, while minor, can be distracting. The consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" is strong and contributes positively to the overall experience, the main character's limited vocal expressions create a divide in opinion. Many reviewers appreciate the quality and direction of the supporting cast, with strong performances enhancing the narrative, as seen in the feedback from Checkpoint Gaming and TechRadar Gaming. However, the minimalistic approach to Joe Musashi's voice acting remains a point of contention, with critics like IGN and Shacknews noting that it may lack the depth some players desire. Overall, the voice acting is characterized as enjoyable and fitting for the game's tone, though it may not fully satisfy all players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" on PS5 impresses with smooth performance and fluid mechanics, earning praise from many critics for its stability. However, minor technical issues like map usability and occasional slowdowns frustrate some players. Overall, the game delivers a polished experience that is still worth playing despite its shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" on the PS5 has garnered a generally positive reception among critics. Many reviewers, such as Carole Quintaine and WellPlayed, praised the game for its smooth performance, highlighting fluid movement and combat mechanics that enhance the overall gameplay experience. MMORPG.com and PlayStation Universe echoed similar sentiments, noting the absence of significant bugs or issues during their playthroughs. Critics like Digital Chumps and Jeuxvideo.com acknowledged that while there are minor design choices that may interrupt gameplay, the game's overall stability remains commendable, contributing to a polished experience. However, several reviewers pointed out various technical shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as ComicBook and Stevivor highlighted issues with the in-game map and traversal mechanics, which can lead to frustration. Minor slowdowns during chaotic moments were noted by Multiplayer.it and TheSixthAxis, while SpazioGames mentioned sporadic input lag affecting gameplay, particularly in platforming sections. Additionally, some critics, including Final Weapon and IGN Spain, pointed out usability issues with the map system, indicating that these minor bugs and design flaws could hinder player experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" on the PS5 is mixed but leans towards a positive outlook. While there are acknowledged minor issues—such as map readability, collision detection, and occasional slowdowns—most reviewers agree that these do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. The majority of critics, including TechRadar Gaming and Push Square, emphasized that despite these minor setbacks, the game runs smoothly and offers a stable performance, making it a worthwhile experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" boasts strong replay value with multiple engaging modes, collectibles, and challenges that entice players to come back for more. Critics praise its robust content, but some express concerns about the short main story and potential repetitiveness in arcade mode. Overall, it offers a solid experience for both new and veteran players, despite a few drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the various modes and challenges that encourage players to revisit the game. GameSpot notes the inclusion of a boss rush and arcade mode, which allows players to improve their performance and tackle levels again. Additionally, IGN and its international counterparts emphasize the abundance of collectibles, secrets, and optional challenges that enhance replayability, encouraging players to aim for 100% completion. Critics like Digital Chumps and Final Weapon also mention the appeal of these modes, suggesting that they provide a robust experience for both veterans and newcomers alike. However, some critics do express concerns about the game's replay value. GamingTrend points out that while the Arcade Mode is present, the level length and ranking system may deter players from replaying for high scores. Similarly, MMORPG.com mentions that the main story is relatively short, leading to a desire for more content after completion. Critics like Noisy Pixel also note that while the game offers replayability through collectibles and upgrades, the arcade mode can feel repetitive, which may diminish the overall experience for some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" offers a solid replay value through various modes and challenges, with many praising its generous content and opportunities for exploration. Critics such as Game Informer and PlayStation Universe highlight the game's design that encourages players to return, while others like TechRadar Gaming and WellPlayed appreciate the optional challenges and unlockable modes. Despite some concerns regarding the main story's length and potential repetitiveness in certain modes, the overall impression is that the game successfully provides enough content and variety to keep players engaged long after the initial playthrough.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its thrilling gameplay and stunning visuals. GameSpot highlights the game as a "thrilling triumph in 2D combat," while Digital Chumps refers to it as a "masterfully crafted action game" that successfully merges classic elements with modern design. Critics like IGN and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the engaging gameplay and beautiful visuals, suggesting that the game is not only a revival of the franchise but also a standout title in its genre. The layered combat, clever level design, and fair difficulty mentioned by COGconnected further underscore the game's appeal to both veterans and newcomers alike, making it a highly recommended experience. However, not all reviews are without criticism. Some reviewers, such as ComicBook and GAMES.CH, pointed out technical issues and a weak story, which detracted from the overall experience. While the gameplay and visuals received high praise, there were mentions of minor design flaws and frustrations with input, as noted by ComicBook. Additionally, MMORPG.com mentioned that the game might feel short for some players, indicating that while the experience is enjoyable, it may not fully satisfy all players' expectations in terms of content length. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" is a successful revival of the franchise, combining nostalgia with modern gameplay elements. Reviewers like Carole Quintaine and Final Weapon echoed this sentiment, describing the game as a "successful return" and "great return for the series." With a majority of critics recommending it for both fans and newcomers, it is clear that the game has made a significant impact, positioning itself as a must-play title in the action-platforming genre. The general agreement on its high-quality production and engaging mechanics solidifies its status as a triumph in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

"Shinobi: Art of Vengeance" is a critically acclaimed 2D action game lauded for its thrilling gameplay and stunning visuals, hailed as a standout in its genre. While some reviewers noted technical issues and a weak story, the overall consensus is that it's a successful franchise revival packed with engaging combat and clever design, making it highly recommended for fans and newcomers alike. Despite minor flaws, it has solidified its place as a must-play title in the action-platforming scene.

MONSTER

Reviews

94 reviews found

100

IGN Benelux

PlayStation 5

Aug 25, 2025