Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is an upcoming 2D action platformer developed by Lizardcube, renowned for their work on Streets of Rage 4. Set to release on August 29, 2025, the game will be available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC .
Gameplay Overview
In this game, you play as Joe Musashi, a legendary shinobi whose village has been destroyed and clan turned to stone. Embarking on a quest for vengeance, Joe utilizes a combination of traditional ninja weaponry and mystical arts to combat enemies. Key gameplay elements include:
- Ninja Arsenal: Wield the katana Oborozuki, throw kunai, and harness Ninjutsu arts and Ninpo to defeat adversaries .
- Combat Mechanics: Execute limitless combos with unique combat moves, acquire Amulets to enhance abilities, and discover Ningi tools to overcome obstacles and uncover new paths .
- Level Design: Traverse more than a dozen unique and visually striking stages, ranging from military bases to scorching deserts, each filled with challenging platforming puzzles and hidden secrets .
- Stealth and Execution: Utilize stealth tactics and perform special “Shinobi Execution” attacks to swiftly eliminate foes .
Game Structure
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance follows a level-based structure, reminiscent of classic entries like The Revenge of Shinobi and Shinobi III. While not a Metroidvania, certain abilities acquired later in the game allow players to access previously unreachable areas, encouraging exploration and replayability .
Editions and Bonuses
The game will be available in both Standard and Digital Deluxe Editions. The Digital Deluxe Edition offers early access (three days before the official release), a Ghost Outfit, Medic Lite Amulet, in-game currency, a digital art book and soundtrack, and access to the upcoming SEGA Villains Stage DLC, featuring bosses inspired by iconic SEGA villains .
Visual and Artistic Style
The game boasts a unique hand-drawn art style, blending influences from French comics and Japanese anime, aiming to evoke the aesthetic of the Sega Genesis era while delivering modern animation quality .
