Ninja Blade, the next exclusive for the Xbox 360 to be published by Microsoft, has to be one of the most engrossing games of all time. Ninja Blade features what the developer, Software, is calling a "Cinematic action game," with the premise that Ninja Blade doesn’t only provide the gamer with an array of weapons, combo’s and special abilities but also draws the gamer into Ninja Blade through a series of on screen command prompts throughout the game, thus creating a very unique, yet enthralling game that will certainly entice many a gamer into Ninja Blade’s ideology.

 

 

 

Ken, being a lean, mean and very nimble Ninja is capable of unleashing countless combo’s upon his enemies. Ken carries three swords on him, ranging from a quick but light damage katana to a heavy but slow sword known as the Stonerrender, you can simply change between weapons with a tap of the left D-pad. This ensures that Ninja Blade never falters from its quick paced, 3rd person Hack and slash action. When Ken gets caught in an “in-game cinematic” he is able to pull off some breath taking manoeuvres which include dodging a giant worm as it tries to swallow our hero and even launching a giant wrecking ball as a final blow to a very persistent boss. While Ninja Blade is very focused on interaction between cut scenes and players, it manages to pull off it off effortlessly.

 

 

Ninja Blade looks very polished, from the cut scenes to the actual game the transgression is so well done, that you hardly realise the change in visuals. The attention to detail and the amazing textures used, provide a vibrant and unique feel to Modern Japan. Whether you are running down a skyscraper or dodging a boss’s attacks, Ninja Blade provides visuals that back up and enhance the unique gameplay.

 

With, a soundtrack from the much acclaimed Norihiko Hibino, Ninja Blade is a class action game from start to finish. From the “whooshing” of Ken’s sword to the mighty roars of huge and rather daunting monsters Ninja Blade plays like it sounds which is a spectacular feat to accomplish with any game.

 

 

In Conclusion, Ninja Blade is a game like no other, it sets the bar pretty high for any game planning on following in its footsteps. Expect to hear the final verdict soon, in our featured review of this amazing title.