Shinobi Art of Vengeance is more than a comeback; it’s a complete transformation. With a Metacritic score of 87 based on 37 critic reviews, the game now stands as the highest-rated title in the Shinobi series, outpacing its 1987 original by nine full points. For longtime fans, this isn’t just redemption, it’s a new peak.
Shinobi Art of Vengeance redefines the franchise
The Shinobi name hasn’t exactly been glowing in the modern era. The 3DS entry, Shinobi 3D, landed a middling 69 on Metacritic and did little to pull the series out of its slump. That reputation has now flipped. Art of Vengeance is getting perfect scores from multiple major outlets and is drawing comparisons to genre heavyweights.
Reviewers highlight its stylish blend of Metroidvania-level design, optional enemy encounters, and sharp combat mechanics that keep your hands clenched on the controller. There’s a nostalgic edge, but the polish is unmistakably modern.
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What makes this Shinobi different?
This isn’t a “return to form” narrative. Shinobi Art of Vengeance has outclassed every previous entry by such a wide margin, it feels like the first true realization of what the franchise was always meant to be. Here’s what critics are loving:
- Intense platforming that balances precision and chaos
- Satisfying hack-and-slash combat with slick movement options
- Visually charged environments and boss fights that punish sloppiness
- A tight, shorter runtime that doesn’t overstay its welcome
The difficulty spikes are no joke, either. If you’re not ready to suffer a few defeats, this one might chew you up. But for those who thrive under pressure, it’s the challenge fans have been craving.
Critics love it, will players agree?
It’s still early days, and player reception could shift the tone slightly, especially if the compact runtime causes frustration. Even so, the game’s price point is reasonable, and it lands at the perfect moment just ahead of the looming Hollow Knight: Silksong launch.
Right now, Shinobi Art of Vengeance feels like a well-timed adrenaline shot for the action-platformer genre. Whether you’re a series veteran or just someone hungry for crisp, punishing gameplay, this could be the entry that earns Shinobi a whole new audience.
