Ninja Gaiden 2: The Dark Sword of Chaos
Reviewed by Peter Skerritt
Ryu Hayabusa, the Ninja Dragon, returns in the second chapter of the
Ninja Gaiden trilogy. This sequel to Tecmo's 1989 hit includes more
of the same hack-and-slash platform action, combined with better
graphics and sound, new power-ups, and somewhat less of a frustration
factor than its predecessor.
After the Jacquio was defeated at the hands of Ryu, an even more evil
foe known as Ashtar kidnaps Ryu's love from the first game, CIA Agent
Irene Lew. Declaring that the Jacquio was only a puppet to draw the Ninja
Dragon out, Ashtar leads Ryu on a chase through city streets, dangerous
(and windy) cliffs, and even the frightening Tower of Lahja in order to
have Ryu save Irene and find out what Ashtar's motives are. With the
help of Robert, a US Armed Forces operative, Ryu sets out on his most
dangerous mission yet.
Graphics 96 out of 100
Graphically, Gaiden 2 is superior to the first game, as it should be. There
is more color and detail, and the animations are very good. As with the
first game, the graphics are split into two types: Cinema scenes and action
scenes. The cinema scenes have even more detail than the first game and a
bit more animation. Color is used a bit more, and again, the scenes illustrate
the unfolding story.
The in-game action scenes also have more color and detail than the first,
with flowing water and even some pulsating scenery towards the game's end (a
la Contra's battle with Red Falcon). The animation is even better. One of Ryu's
new power-ups enable him to have two shadow of himself fight alongside him.
Animating all three characters PLUS the on-screen enemies is no small feat
for the NES, yet Tecmo pulls it off with little to no slowdown or flicker.
Music and Sound 90 out of 100
Soundwise, this game behaves a lot like its predecessor. The sounds effects
are very similar, but are quite unobtrusive. It would have been nice to hear
some thunder to go with the lightning on the way to the Tower of Lahja, but
that's my opinion.
Musically, Tecmo again does a good job mixing up the tunes to fit the mood
of the game. The music for the cinema scenes excels again, magnifying the
emotions conveyed by the story. Any time that the in-game BGM adds to the
experience instead of becoming distracting or annoying, it will be highly regarded.
Game Challenge 94 out of 100
As with the first game, there are no passwords, so gamers must beat the
game in one sitting; that is definitely a challenge. There are unlimited continues,
just like the first game, so if at first you don't succeed... you know the rest.
The bosses are challenging, for the most part; however, the game brings back
a couple of bosses from Ryu's first adventure. If you remember how you beat
them before, it will work again.
The platforming portion of the game still remains a big a challenge as ever.
Timing, again, is everything. If your timing is off, there are many bottomless
pits that will have Ryu's name on them. This challenge is magnified in Act II.
Watch the wind!!!
Game Play-Fun 100 out of 100
This game ranks as one of the best playing games of all time. The difficulty
level is just right, and beating the game is possible for players of all skill
levels, and not the elite players. There are tough spots here and there, both
in boss encounters and in jumping from ledge to ledge, but these tough spots
can be cleared with practice and timing.
Gameplay is perfect. Powerups of all types are available, and Tecmo's
addition of Ryu shadows is a big plus. Controls are again very responsive
and moves are easy to pull off. Ryu can now climb walls by just pressing
up or down, rather than have to jump continually to climb.
Frustration
The frustration factor in this game is much more tolerable than the first
game. There are fewer areas that seem impossible and that take more than
10 tries to get through in one piece, and that is definitely a relief. Again,
with timing, both novice and advanced players can overcome Ashtar and his
evil scheme.
Replayability 80 out of 100
As with the first game, this is not a game that will be pulled out every day
after beating Ashtar and his minions. It is another good test of gamers'
hack-and slash and platforming abilities, and is great nostalgia, just like
the first. Some players might even play just to ask why Gaiden III couldn't
have played like this (but more on that later...). Until you do beat the game,
however, the storyline and its plot twists will keep you coming back for
more, just to find out what happens next.
Game Value 100 out of 100
At an average of $5 (US), this game is another must-buy. This game is a
shining example of gameplay at its finest. Following Ryu's storyline is also
a good reason to buy. Most importantly, this game is a must for all those who
have played the first game. Gaiden II fixes almost everything that was wrong
with the first game; less frustration, better power-ups, and an original plot
line.
Overall 97 out of 100
Ninja Gaiden 2 is the best of the trilogy. Everything that the first game did
well, this game does better. Better story, better graphics, better gameplay... it
seemed as though Tecmo simply built on its success, rather than just rehashing
it. I cannot gave a higher recommendation for a game than I am for this one.
NES owners, this is the game that defines gameplay and is a must-have in
anyone's collection. Now get out there and show Ashtar who's boss...