You wait ages for a classic ninja-based gaming series to return, and then two arrive at once: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound and Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. Both titles are rooted in iconic, challenging series from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras. Only Ninja Gaiden really made the leap to modern consoles successfully. If your benchmark for difficulty is Dark Souls or Elden Ring, you’ve not lived until you’ve tried Ninja Gaiden on the original Xbox.
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Fittingly, both games return to their roots with modern takes on 2D action platformers. But which ninja reigns supreme? Let’s break it down across key categories and crown a winner.
(Side note: both games are linked to Streets of Rage 4, with Dotemu and Lizardcube involved in Ninja Gaiden and Shinobi respectively.)
Story
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
Set parallel to the original Ninja Gaiden (1988), the story follows new protagonist Kenji Mozu, defending Hayabusa Village from demons while Ryu Hayabusa is in America. After an attack, Kenji uncovers a plot to resurrect an ancient evil. Meanwhile, Kumori of the Black Spider Clan seeks revenge after her clan is ambushed. Their paths cross, and they’re forced to fuse souls to survive and take down the threat together.
It’s a classic enemies-turned-allies tale, but the writing stands out, especially the tension between Kenji and Kumori.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Joe Musashi returns as the mute leader of the Oboro clan, protectors of humanity for centuries. The ENE Corporation, led by Lord Ruse, launches a surprise attack on the Oboro village, turning its ninjas to stone, except for Joe. Cue a quest for revenge.
Despite Joe’s silence, the story is humanised through interactions with his pregnant wife and apprentice Tomoe. There’s even humour, as no one else can understand Joe, adding levity to an otherwise serious tale.
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Winner: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
Neither story is winning awards, but Ragebound edges ahead with stronger character dynamics and sharper writing.
Gameplay
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
A throwback to the series’ roots, this is a tough hack-and-slash platformer. You run, jump, and fight through waves of enemies before facing stage bosses. Movement is tight, attacks feel powerful, and hype charge attacks add tactical depth, costing health or building through combat.
It’s tough but fair. Mistakes are usually yours, not the game’s. You mainly play as Kenji, but Kumori’s abilities add variety, including Spider Clan weapons and kunai that pass through walls.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
The gameplay here is near flawless. Movement is fluid and ever-evolving—wall jumps, gliding, claw climbing. Each stage adds new layers of challenge.
Combat is smooth and satisfying, blending light and heavy attacks into stylish combos. Kunai can stun enemies, opening them up for dramatic executions. The depth grows as you experiment with faster and more efficient ways to dispatch foes.
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Winner: Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Ragebound puts up a strong fight, but Shinobi sets a new standard for 2D action platformers with its evolving mechanics and perfect execution.
Visuals
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
A love letter to pixel art, with detailed backgrounds, fluid animation, and varied environments. It’s old-school with a modern polish.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Stunning hand-drawn visuals and a vibrant colour palette make this a visual masterpiece. Characters and enemies are beautifully animated, and the art style builds on the studio’s reputation from Streets of Rage 4.
Winner: Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Both games look great, but Shinobi is pure visual poetry—especially when chaining combos and platforming in perfect rhythm.
Sound
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
Captures the spirit of the original series with a richer, more bombastic soundtrack. Composer Sergio de Prado, along with contributors from the NES trilogy, blends nostalgic chiptune with modern rock brilliantly.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
A fusion of retro and modern styles, the soundtrack ramps up during boss fights and intense combat. It’s dynamic and atmospheric, matching the game’s tone well.
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Winner: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
This one’s personal. Ragebound’s soundtrack transported me back to my mate’s house, watching game over screens on his NES. It nails the nostalgic vibe while still feeling fresh.
Overall
There’s no real loser here, only winners. Both Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound and Shinobi: Art of Vengeance are outstanding, polished titles and absolute must-buys.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, these games deliver. If you want to see what top-tier game design looks like, these two are perfect examples.
Glorious returns for two gaming icons. Simple as that.