A challenging game that will run you through every emotion - from frustration to elation. And worth every minute of it.
Cons: Can be very hard -- not good for casual gamers, save spot locations can be frustrating.
For a game that has been out over two years, it is still one that I enjoy coming back to. Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably head of this game. But, perhaps, you were put off by all the talk about how hard it is. Don't be fooled, it is a hard game -- at first. But the time you put into it pays back in dividends.
Graphic and play wise, this game has it in spades. The scenery is beautiful to behold. Even if you don't play the game, just watching others play it is a pleasure. In fact, it only helps to watch others play. There are great videos out there that can walk you through some of the best moves.
Let's talk difficulty. I'm sure you've heard that this game is hard. Unless you are a pro gamer, you will most likely want to throw your controller across the room at the TV on occasion. This game is not for button mashers. You have to actually push the buttons in the right order at the right time for them to actually do anything noteworthy.
When I first started playing this game, I was able to get through the first few parts by just hitting the buttons at random -- not really understanding what I was doing. That was the frustration part. As I learned each weapons attacks, the game took on a new life. I was stringing combos, throwing demons into the air, slicing through ninjas. Such sweetness.
The moral being, don't expect to play this game in short periods of time. You'll need to dedicate time to playing, learning the moves, and dying a lot. Except it and move on. You didn't learn to read in a day, so this game doesn't expect you to beat it in one either. If you're still having problems, check out Ninja Gaiden: Black -- which includes an Easy mode to help you through the rough spots.
Now, about that camera. Some may hate the camera. However, considering a lot of other games out there, this one isn't bad. It is easy to center and most attacks can be guided, so it doesn't usually matter. If it still bothers you, download one of the Hurricane packs or Ninja Gaiden: Black, both of which include a movable camera.
Of note, Ninja Gaiden has plenty of replay value. The first time through Normal will probably take you awhile, especially as you learn the combat system. As you get better, you have Hard and Very Hard to try out. Both modes add harder AI, not just beefed up monsters. In addition, the free Hurricane packs will lend you another walk down the main story, plus an area battle to challenge even the best Ninjas.
If you don't already have this game in your collection, and you're up to a challenge, give Ninja Gaiden a shot. In fact, it plays great on the Xbox 360. I'm sure you'll need the practice for when Ninja Gaiden 2 comes out!