Tecmo’s Ninja Gaiden made it’s debut in arcade’s in 1988 as a very tough quarter munching beat-em up. As was the case with many NES arcade ports, the game was changed dramatically for it’s console release. Gone were the wrestler type moves Ryu had used in the arcade version. Swinging from street light to street light was also dropped for the NES port. Instead, Ryu could jump back an forth off vertically aligned walls to make his way “up” some areas. Also in, were the lightning fast controls and Ryu’s use of his Dragon Sword and Ninja Arts magic the series would later become known for. But the most important feature added to this NES version, would have to be the very cool story it received, and the manner in which Tecmo decided to tell it.

The cut-scenes Tecmo used in Ninja Gaiden were extremely monumental. This was the first time this method was used to tell a games story. It helps that the scenes themselves’ are very entertaining and have some of the most impressive graphics and music found on the NES. Ryu’s globe trotting quest for the revenge of his Father’s death was definitely a great looking one. It’s not as detailed as the arcade version of course, but like I said, this is far from the arcade version. Tecmo gave Ninja Gaiden’s NES release it’s own unique identity to help it stand head and shoulders above the coin-op Gaiden. The cut-scenes and story mixed with incredibly fast platforming and swordplay are what make the whole Ninja Gaiden NES package a special one.

NES                                                                                    ARCADE

Just like the cut-scenes, the games stage’s are also very nicely detailed. All have their own upbeat ninja beats to go along with them. Overall, Ninja Gaiden is a great looking and sounding NES game. Each of the game’s six levels (13 total when split) are very different. You’ll travel from the opening urban city of Galesburg, through an outpost, across Death Valley, down a Crystal Lake (no not that one) and through the Lizard Mountain range. You’ll even parachute into the Amazon Jungle. Eventually, you’ll make your way to the Temple of Darkness for your very trying final battle with Jaquio, the game’s final boss. 

Ninja Gaiden will definitely feel cheap at times. Ryu suffers a great deal when he is hit by an enemy. He’s thrown backwards and the player loses control until he can land. This mixed with the fact that if you walk forward and defeat an enemy, turn around just a tad and then walk forward again, that enemy will reappear, will aggravate you continuously. You’ll be wondering if Ninja Gaiden is really difficult, or just a down right cheap game. I happen to enjoy it and like to think of it as a 2D platformer that requires 2D shooter type reflexes. Yes, it is a very difficult game, but try to keep in mind, every stage and every enemy has a certain pattern that can be mastered if patient. I know, this is much easier said then done but it should help ease the pain if you happen to be getting aggravated with the game’s design. For better or worse, you have to be entirely into the playing experience (like you should be), or it’s difficulty will easily defeat you. It’s done it to me many of time’s.

Stage 6-2 of Ninja Gaiden is particularly legendary for it’s extreame difficulty. Ninja’s with jet packs, bottomless pits, swooping birds, and enemies that appear behind you will test your gaming sanity. Just remember, it’s only a game and your doing it all for the challenge!