Key Takeaways
1. Return to 2D Style: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound marks a return to the classic 2D style of the series, offering a new side-scrolling adventure in the NES universe.
2. Gameplay Mechanics: Players control Kenji Mozu, utilizing fast-paced melee combat, acrobatic movements, and “hypercharged” attacks, with a second character, Kumori, adding teleportation and ranged attacks.
3. Favorable Reviews: The game has received positive feedback, holding an average score of 87/100 on OpenCritic, with praise for its controls, combat, pixel art, and replayability.
4. Free Demo Available: A free demo allows players to experience the first four levels and test the mechanics before purchasing the game.
5. Launch Discount: Ragebound is priced at $22.49, with a 10% discount available during the launch period until August 7.
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, which was released on Steam on July 31, marks a return to the beloved 2D style of the series, adding a new twist along with a free demo for those interested. This game was developed by The Game Kitchen, known for Blasphemous, and is published by Dotemu. Ragebound is available on various digital platforms including PC, Switch, PlayStation 4 and 5, as well as Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. The game is priced at $22.49, which includes a 10% discount during the launch period, valid on Steam until August 7.
A New Adventure
Ragebound is not a remake; it is a new side-scrolling platformer set in the classic NES Ninja Gaiden universe. Players take on the role of Kenji Mozu, a young ninja from the Hayabusa clan. His mission is to protect his village from invading demons while Ryu Hayabusa is away. The game features fast-paced action, with most enemies defeated in a single slash, though tougher foes and bosses require a more varied set of techniques. The gameplay includes melee combat, acrobatic movements like wall climbing and mid-air dashes, and powerful “hypercharged” attacks as players navigate through various platforming levels. Additionally, a second character, Kumori, later joins the fray, bringing teleportation, ranged attacks, and alternate dimensions into play.
Positive Reception
So far, reviews have been quite favorable on Steam. On OpenCritic, the game holds an average score of 87/100, with 93% of critics endorsing it. Critics commend its smooth controls, fair yet challenging combat, stunning pixel art, and replayability through hard modes and collectible side content. While the normal difficulty is designed to be accessible, the hard mode takes players back to the challenging nature reminiscent of the original trilogy. Some critiques mention longer levels and limited checkpoints at higher difficulties, but the performance has generally been well-received across PC and Steam Deck (currently priced at $770 on Amazon), with comprehensive controller support right from the start.
The free demo allows players to experience the first four levels and try out the moves of both protagonists, giving a sneak peek at the precise controls and unique mechanics before committing to the $22.49 purchase. Overall, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound appears to be a true homage to the franchise’s 2D legacy, while also bringing in modern updates.
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