To me, this makes up for all the lesser Naruto games out there. Still a few flaws.
Naruto Ultimate Ninja 3 is a 3D action fighter game for the PS2. It is the sequel of the first two games in the series, Ultimate Ninja 1, and Ultimate Ninja 2. Throughout the series, each game seems to get a little better, until this one takes the cake thus far.
UUN3 is very extensive, with 42 characters, including the legendary Yellow Flash, Japanese or English dialogue, a full 3D storymode landscape, minigames, purchasable extras, and more.
Storymode is pretty much just a replay of the different story arcs from the hit anime, although this is limited, and quite short.
What really draws the eye are the featured, "Ultimate Jutsu", each character has. These Ultimate Jutsu will reveal a cutscene of the player using that move, while during the cutscene, the two players will face off using, say, button mashing to determine how much damage is recieved.
Ultimate Jutsu possesses devastating power, and I have to give the makers credit for that, but after a while, you have probably seen all there is to see from the Ultimate Jutsu feature, and it will become less significant.
Also during storymode are beautifully done cutscenes, but those are sadly limited, but still awsome each time you see them.
Storymode definently lacks in meat, it's the multiplayer that attracts the average gamer. Like I said, there are 41 unlockable characters, and the option of Japapese dialogue for the characters. You know, to give it that better Naruto feel.
Also of course is what all Naruto games have, missions. You find yourself commonly jumping from 3D rooftops completing various missions in the village.
The major weakness in the game, like most Naruto games, is it's quick, and often forgetable gameplay, but what's different with this game is that it manages to have enough bonus content to keep one satisfied. Or at least that is how I see it.
Scoring Time!
Graphics: 9/10: The Ultimate Jutsu and storymode scenes are just amazing! Tons of effort were incuded. Although standard battles lack a bit.
Plot: 7/10: No original plot, just re-play throughs of the show. Still entertaining none the less.
Characters: 10/10: Literally every character you would in Naruto game. 42 to be exact.
Gameplay: 10/10: Bonus content and addictive multiplayer are within. 3D lanscape is incredible!
Difficulty: 9/10: Pretty hard sometimes. No real problems beyond that.
Fianl Score: 45/50= 9/10= "Epic Win"
An -almost- MASTERPIECE!
-Blazekick2