Test-of-time gameplay saves this one from a choppy storyline, but its also one of the most disappointing games, ever.
Pros: The gameplay is the same as before, except that you are now able to hang under certain platforms and swinging under them. Neat trick. Some new weapons include the extended sword in which you can strike your enemies at a distance, and two blades and go up and down and pretty useful if your hanging under the platform. You can now also see what special weapons your about to obtain before even striking the crystal balls, lowering the frustration of getting the undesired one. Cons: However, gone is the use of the psuedo-3D background that made you appear like you are part of the background; its all a side-scroller now like Super Mario Bros. Also gone is the use of the 2 ghosts that helped you against the toughest enemies. The mighty jump-and-slash technique is still nowhere to be found. Change of environments from one stage to another make the storyline appear choppy. The enemies and bosses have a more of a sci-fi feel, losing the appeal of "natural" demons and monsters that made the first two games memorable. With the challenge level of the first 2 games, the limited continues in this game can make your blood boil.
Ninja Gaiden is one of the finest franchises to ever hit gaming, but Ninja Gaiden III is one of the most disappointing games to ever be released. Die-hard NG fans can forgive this game with its test-of-time play, but any more of these type of games will make this respected franchise fall into oblivion. Thank God for Xbox.