PlayStation 5 Review: NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black

NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black, the remastered edition of the beloved action classic by TEAM NINJA and KOEI TECMO America, has finally arrived on the PS5, bringing Ryu Hayabusa’s thrilling adventure back to life. Let’s dive into our impressions of this exciting release!

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First making its debut back in 2008 on the Xbox 360, NINJA GAIDEN 2 underwent a transformation with its PlayStation 3 rendition, known as NINJA GAIDEN 2 Sigma, in 2009, followed by its PlayStation Vita appearance in 2013. Fast forward to 2025, and here we are with a beautifully remastered experience that merges content from both NINJA GAIDEN 2 and NINJA GAIDEN 2 Sigma, tailor-made for the PlayStation 5.

As you step into this high-octane world, you’ll find yourself constantly alert, slicing through waves of enemies across various environments. Ready for a Mature-rated, adrenaline-fueled journey? Take control of Ryu Hayabusa with the left analog stick and manage the camera with the right. Jump using the X button, perform swift attacks with the Square, and unleash powerful strikes with the Triangle. Mastering combinations will be your ticket to overwhelming your foes as you unlock new, devastating techniques. Blocking is essential, done with the L1 button. If you’re a fan of Devil May Cry or Bayonetta, you’ll feel right at home here.

For those tense moments where you need to strike from a distance, launch a shuriken with the Circle button—just don’t rely on it too much, as enemies can easily deflect if overused. R2 handles your projectile weapons, which are most effective when you take a moment to aim with L2. The D-Pad offers quick access to your arsenal, allowing you to switch between melee weapons, items, ninpo, and projectile options. If you ever lose your way, holding the R1 button will illuminate the path forward in your quest.

As you progress, you’ll discover unique ninja techniques by finding scrolls or items scattered throughout the game. For instance, the Shadowless Footsteps technique, found early on, enables wall-running by jumping towards a wall and holding down the X button. The Obliteration technique lets you finish off severely wounded enemies, perfected by pressing Triangle when close to a crippled foe. Need some agility in combat? The Reverse Wind technique, a quick defensive dash, is executed with a combination of L1 and directional input.

You’ll eventually acquire the Art of Inferno, a powerful Ninpo attack. Trigger it by pressing Triangle and Circle simultaneously to unleash a devastating fireball. However, this move consumes your Ki gauge, which you can replenish using red essence found in the environment. Also, be sure to obtain the Flying Bird technique for rapid wall hopping and the Flying Swallow for leaping overhead strikes. There are many more techniques to discover, but we’ll leave those for you to uncover!

While traversing the vibrant locations, search for the special Dragon Statues, crucial for healing and saving your progress. Interact with them when no enemies are nearby, healing wounds when they glow blue and saving your game once they fade to white. Blue essence will also restore health in a pinch, so grab it whenever possible. Remember, enemies won’t hesitate to take you down!

In your journey, defeated enemies will leave behind red essence for Ki recovery, blue for healing, and yellow as your in-game currency. Visit the Muramasa Shop to upgrade your weapons or purchase vital items. Enhance the mighty Dragon Sword or make your Lunar Staff even more lethal. Choose wisely, and perhaps grab a Herb of Spiritual Life for health or a Devil’s Way Mushroom for a Ki boost.

The remaster includes a comprehensive trophy system, aiming high with a platinum trophy for the dedicated players out there. It offers 24 Bronze, 9 Silver, and 4 Gold trophies, presenting a set of challenging tasks that will test your skills. Conquer ninja techniques, complete key chapters, and tackle every difficulty mode, from Acolyte to Master Ninja. And don’t forget to collect those elusive crystal skulls or engage in the formidable Tag Missions.

NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black is more than just a remaster—it’s a love letter to fans old and new, seamlessly bridging the past and present of Ryu Hayabusa’s saga on the PlayStation 5, all at a price of $49.99. Are you eager to embark on this relentless action-packed adventure? Dive in and see what awaits!

Disclaimer: This review of NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black was crafted using a PlayStation 5 copy provided by KOEI TECMO America.