Game Information

Game Title: SHINOBI: Art Of Vengeance

Platforms:

  • PlayStation 5 (Aug 29, 2025)
  • PlayStation 4 (Aug 29, 2025)
  • PC (Aug 28, 2025)
  • Xbox Series X/S (Aug 29, 2025)
  • Xbox One (Aug 29, 2025)
  • Nintendo Switch (Aug 29, 2025)

Trailers:

Developer: Lizardcube

Publisher: SEGA

Review Aggregator:

OpenCritic - 88 average - 97% recommended - 60 reviews

Critic Reviews

Analog Stick Gaming - Jeff M Young - 9.5 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is truly fantastic, and the type of game I had wished Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound had been. It hits all the right beats for the genre, and its combat progression keeps Joe Musashi powerful without feeling unstoppable, due to some fantastic work with its roster of enemies and bosses. As Shinobi is the first step in Sega’s big ‘Power Surge Program’, it hopefully stands as a testament of the quality to come.

But Why Tho? - Scott White - 9 / 10

I can’t remember the last time I had as much fun with this sort of game as I did with Shinobi Art of Vengeance, and for fans of 2D action games, it is a must-play. Fans of ninjas continue to feast.

COGconnected - Jaz Sagoo - 92 / 100

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is nothing short of incredible. Its layered combat system lets you stylishly cut down foes, while clever level design delivers platforming challenges that make full use of your abilities. The difficulty is demanding yet fair, rewarding you for learning and responding to enemy attacks. More than just a worthy reboot, it feels like the ideal starting point for Sega’s wider revival.

Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 8.5 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a thoroughly enjoyable and action-packed time that'll satiate both series veterans who've long been awaiting a return and newcomers who've always wanted to check the franchise out. With Lizardcube utilising the best parts of their game design DNA while truly understanding what it means to be a Shinobi game, they have crafted this retro-infused adventure that celebrates the old and embraces the new. With kickass challenging platforming, combat, boss fights and setpieces that'll take some mastering, meaningful progression that fits right into the series, and gorgeous, gorgeous sights that run the gamut on this shinobi-starring journey, Art of Vengeance is simply artful. It's a pinpoint precision strike to the gut of those after some good old-fashioned ninja action chaos.

Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - 9 / 10

Like a ninja, Shinobi: Act of Vengeance sneakily delivers one of this year's best 2D action games. It smartly and stealthily showcases its brutal and spectacular mechanics that consistently up the stakes. While the story is the weakest aspect, the stylish action shows how promising 2D action games can be today.

Cultured Vultures - Ash Bates - 9 / 10

Like Streets Of Rage 4 before it, Lizardcube have taken a beloved classic and made it their own. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a triumphant return of a classic.

Daily Mirror - Aaron Potter - 4 / 5

Sure, the story is somewhat straightforward and there could be a touch more underling enemies to fight, but this in no way detracts from Lizardcube’s second successful revival of a classic Sega arcade series, one that takes the merits of the past and updates them to create an immensely tight modern 2D action-platformer.

Final Weapon - Jordan Brown - 4 / 5

SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance looks to revive the long-dormant Shinobi series after an almost fifteen-year hiatus. Developer Lizardcube brings Joe Musashi back into the limelight in one of the most stunning-looking games of the year, which is sure to make longtime fans of the series happy. Although there are a few stumbles along the way and design choices that I wish had been ironed out more, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance is a great game that will hopefully kickstart this series back to life and work as a building block for future titles to come.

Game Rant - Dalton Cooper - 7 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a solid 2D action platformer with a few shortcomings that keep it from reaching its full potential.

GameGrin - Alana Dunitz - 8 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a beautiful-looking game that feels like a great addition to the series. It is challenging and full of non-stop ninja action.

GameSpew - Richard Seagrave - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance once again puts us in control of the legendary Joe Musashi, and it's a genuine treat. Fast and fluid combat meets slick platforming and traversal, and when you add in the game's stunning art and excellent soundtrack, you're looking at game of the year material.

GameSpot - Richard Wakeling - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance revitalizes a classic by combining excellent combat and platforming with a gorgeous art style, reaching new heights for the long-dormant series.

Gameffine - Jay Krishnan - 95 / 100

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a fully reimagined tribute to a beloved classic. With its stunning visuals, satisfying combat, smooth controls, and thoughtful modern QoL features, it’s the complete package and might end up being one of my favorite games of the year.

GamerFocus - Julián Ramírez - Spanish - 8 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance excels with its combat system, level design, and visual art. It's packed with exciting moments, and while it suffers from a slight personality crisis due to some ill-fitting Metroidvania-esque elements and some performance issues (at least in PS5), it's well worth a try for fans of 2D action platformers.

GamesRadar+ - Dustin Bailey - 3 / 5

I've found myself pretty dejected over just how little the levels capitalize on the strength of the basic action

GamingBolt - Ravi Sinha - 9 / 10

Channeling everything that made the classics great while enhancing with new mechanics, stunning visuals, and sublime controls, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is an incredible revival and stellar action side-scroller in its own right.

Hardcore Gamer - Skeith Ruch - 4 / 5

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a fantastic experience from start to finish and a brilliant comeback for the classic franchise.

Hey Poor Player - Francis DiPersio - 4.5 / 5

Like Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap and Streets of Rage 4 before it, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance proves once again that Lizardcube knows how to bring Sega’s most beloved properties to the modern era with its crisp, combo-driven combat and fast and fluid platforming action. Whether you grew up with Joe Musashi or are stepping into his tabi boots for the first time, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a spectacular evolution for the series that cuts through the competition.

IGN - Tristan Ogilvie - 8 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a genuinely engaging 2D action platformer that’s beautiful to behold and even better to play

Kakuchopurei - Jonathan Toyad - 90 / 100

It's a long time coming, but Sega and Lizard Cube have done the Shinobi name proud with this 2025 2D action offering. I can confidently say that the one true Shinobi is back and better than ever. You've been missed, Joe Musashi, and the video game action landscape is all the better for your comeback.

Loot Level Chill - Lyle Pendle - 10 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance features exceptional combat, compelling exploration and gorgeous visuals, and I couldn't recommend it more.

Lords Of Gaming - Subeg Dhaliwal - 9 / 10

Art of Vengeance is a triumphant return for the series. Leveling up the formula with excellent traversal and combat. Its richly layered, hand-drawn backgrounds are as inviting as they are detailed. Lizardcube has modernized the series while honoring its 1987 roots, forging a fresh path for Joe Musashi that respects the lessons and legacy of their peers and predecessors. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is sharp, fluid, and pure, and a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern design.

MKAU Gaming - Brad Thorsen - 8 / 10

SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance isn’t just a game; it’s a journey that reaches back to the golden age of gaming and pulls you in with a stunning, modern grip and is a confident return for the franchise.

Manual dos Games - Luccas Batista de Paula - Portuguese - 10 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is not just the return of a classic franchise. It’s an example of how to bring an icon from the past into the present, without losing its identity and without being afraid to take risks.

It’s a challenging, beautiful, addictive, and heartfelt game. For veterans, it’s a gift. For newcomers, it’s a gateway to the magic that Shinobi has always represented. No exaggeration: this is already, for me, the best game of the year.

MonsterVine - Veerender Jubbal - 5 / 5

I could go on and on gushing about how much I truly love SHINOBI: Art of the Vengeance. From its stylish, quick-witted gameplay and challenging experience to its beautifully designed character portraits with maps, I scrape to uncover each secret until I reach that 100% completion. Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap was one of my first games I played on the Nintendo Switch that introduced me to this developer, and Lizardcube has done it again with this Shinobi rejuvenation’s smooth and sleek gameplay.

Multiplayer First - James Lara - 9.5 / 10

So much love and attention to detail were put into Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, which, honestly, given Lizardcube did do Street of Rage 4, I shouldn’t be surprised by. But I am, and I’m thoroughly impressed by what the studio has created here. A game that pays homage to its legacy, while evolving it in every meaningful way. It’s a true love letter to the fans, capturing the spirit of the franchise in a new, modern tale that’s both faithful and perfect for newcomers to discover the legend of Joe Musashi.

NextPlay - Roberto Moran - 8.5 / 10

Whether you’re a fan of classic side-scrollers, a Shinobi veteran, or simply a player looking for a high-quality 2D action game with depth and style, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is an essential play in 2025’s gaming lineup.

One More Game - Chris Garcia - 9 / 10

Any other year, and SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance could have easily been considered as a Game of the Year contender. It's that good. From the stunning visuals to its fast-paced combo-based gameplay, the game is pure bliss and such an audiovisual treat from start to finish. It understands what makes action platformers great and executes its vision with style and precision.

Despite its short runtime of about 10 hours, there's enough replayability to keep players coming back. From optional collectibles to combat and platforming challenges, all of these work toward improving Joe as he becomes a force to be reckoned with. The game can be tough, and while some challenges can be frustrating, they never seem so unfair that they feel out of reach.

Output Lag - Michael Murphy - 8.5 / 10

Even with some frustrating platforming and okay story, the visual style and action combat in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance are hands-down some of the best we've seen this year.

PSX Brasil - Ivan Nikolai Barkow Castilho - Portuguese - 100 / 100

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is, honestly, the definition of a video game. It has an incredible and addictive combat system, stunning graphics, a well-executed metroidvania vibe in the levels, a cliché story that perfectly matches the theme, and challenging extra modes.

Pizza Fria - Filipe Villela Barroso - Portuguese - 9.2 / 10

If you're a fan of 2D action games, love fluid combat, and want to relive, or experience, the spirit of one of video games' most iconic ninjas, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is undoubtedly a must-play.

PlayStation Universe - Tommy Holloway - 9.5 / 10

With its gorgeous hand drawn art and kinetic combat, Shinobi Art Of Vengeance is one of my favorite games of 2025, and one of the best 2D action-platformers in years.

Press Start - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a strong return for the series, bringing together incredible art direction, strong level design, and a combat loop that's both endlessly satisfying and addictive. Sprinkle in some light Metroid-inspired backtracking and some incredibly challenging optional content, and you've got an experience that goes above and beyond anything offered by previous Shinobi games. And while the original soundtrack is average, the voice work is sterile and the story even more so, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is an incredibly entertaining and satisfying action platformer that's well worth your time.

Prima Games - Ali Hashmi - 8.5 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a fantastic action game with remarkable depth, built on long combo chains, the tactful use of Kunai, and a wide range of Ninpo skills that offer strategic value during combat. LizardCube has expanded the series in scope, delivering the longest Shinobi game yet, with extensive exploration and challenging platforming woven into the experience. The art direction and animation quality stand well above most contemporaries, though the generic story and thin characterization hold it back.

Push Square - Stephen Tailby - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is hard to fault. We can take or leave the story, the platforming is occasionally frustrating, and levels can outstay their welcome sometimes - but that's basically it. This is otherwise a brilliant 2D action platformer that looks gorgeous and plays even better thanks to kinetic, satisfying combat that feels superb when you get in the flow. If this is any indicator of SEGA's other upcoming franchise revivals, we're in for some good times ahead.

Quest Daily - Shaun Fullard - 8.5 / 10

If you’re a fan of action-platformers, this one is a no-brainer. SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance shines in its visual presentation, showcasing incredible style and attention to detail. Combat is a standout, allowing you to feel like a master Shinobi as you bounce from foe to foe, unleashing your arsenal of attacks.

SavePoint Gaming - Jake Su - 9.5 / 10

The visuals and music are fantastic, the combat stellar and invigorating, and the platforming and exploration elements are masterfully done. Plus, you'll get access to Boss Rush and Arcade Mode upon clearing the game, adding even more replayability to a modern masterpiece. This revival hits all the marks with glittering, sharp kunai - what more can you ask for?

Shacknews - Ozzie Mejia - 9 / 10

While I can't speak for this game in comparison to its 16-bit heyday, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a thrill that stands on its own. It's a total master class in combat depth, level design, and story moments that leave enough to the imagination without completely halting the action.

Slant Magazine - Justin Clark - 4.5 / 5

Even with the additional depth that it brings to the Shinobi experience, this is a game that doesn’t let you forget that it’s about ninjas being chased around by fighter jets, surfing the high seas and jumping over mines, and being hunted by demonic skulls in the desert.

Stevivor - 8.5 / 10

Shinobi Art of Vengeance is a fantastic start to Sega’s Next Level program, and one that’s easy to recommend. Priced at a budget-conscious $48 AUD and offering around 15 or so hours of gameplay, fans of the franchise or the likes of The Lost Crown will certainly dig this.

TechRaptor - Austin Suther - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a wonderful return for the classic franchise, featuring fluid combat with tons of variety, as well as exciting boss encounters. While combat is definitely the highlight, its art design is a sight to behold and is undeniably one of the most stylish games of 2025. While its platforming needs a bit of fine-tuning, it isn't enough to hinder how much fun it is to combo the heck out of foes.

The Outerhaven Productions - Keith Mitchell - 5 / 5

After waiting for decades, Shinobi and Joe Musashi have not just made a proper return, but are a shining example of what SEGA can do with its older titles, should it want to. It’s simply flawless, full of enjoyable combat, tricky sections, and plenty to keep ninja gaming fans happy from start to finish. Welcome back, Joe. We’ve missed you.

TheGamer - George Foster - 5 / 5

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a home run on the first pitch. It’s one of the most gorgeous, creative, and satisfying games of 2025 and has effortlessly clawed its way to becoming my frontrunner for Game of the Year.

TheSixthAxis - Adrian Burrows - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is the game that a legend like Joe Musashi deserves. Fast, frenetic and utterly absorbing, this is how you bring a long-dead series back to life. Lizardcube have set a new benchmark in 2D platforming and in the process have me salivating at the prospect of Sega franchises they could tackle next.

VDGMS - Darren Andrew - 10 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a masterclass is how to properly reboot a dormant gaming IP, as it honors the tenets of the iconic series, but decisively plants a flag as the new identity for the franchise moving forward. Shinobi Art of Vengeance is freight train of excellence with zero filler. The controls are precise, visuals are stunning, pacing is perfect, balance is fine tuned, soundtrack is great and best of all, it didnt need to change its identity as success was within all along.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a fantastic return to form, as it will easily be the best Ninja game of the year, possibly the best 2D platformer of the year, and makes a strong case to be a game of the year candidate.

WellPlayed - Ash Wayling - 8.5 / 10

From start to finish, the resurrection of the Shinobi franchise is one well deserved – with gorgeous visuals and a stellar ninja power fantasy that confidently (and silently) stands on its own two feet.

Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a wonderful revival of the long-dormant franchise, and it combines excellent combat with an engaging pseudo-Metroidvania gameplay style. I had a rollicking good time from start to finish. My only real complaint comes from the somewhat finicky precision platforming, but even that is limited to some optional, late-game areas. If you're a fan of the franchise, there's a lot to like, but this latest ninja revival is good for newcomers and longtime fans alike.

Xbox Achievements - Richard Walker - 90%

In Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, protagonist Joe Musashi speaks only in monosyllabic grunts. You could see it as a mark of disdain for all the years SEG...

XboxEra - Jesse Norris - 9 / 10

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a 10 when it comes to combat and visuals. Incredible replayability, a decent story, and a good soundtrack are let down by frustratingly imprecise platforming. Still, the other parts are so strong that I can easily recommend this game to damned near anyone.