Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Xbox.com has listed several new games as Platinum Hits, including Fable II (aka Game of the Year Edition), Halo Wars, Left 4 Dead, The Orange Box, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, Ninja Gaiden II, Kung-Fu Panda, Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Sonic Unleashed.

A Microsoft PR agent couldn't confirm the full list of new Platinum Hits (are we missing any above?), but said that if a game is listed as such on Xbox.com, it's a Platinum Hits title. The changes seem to have taken effect on major retailer sites, as GameStop and Amazon now reflect the discounted Platinum prices (if not always the the Platinum Hits branding), which range from $20-30.

With Orange Box requiring only one Jackson ($20), it's now literally a crime to not own it. Conversely, if you're dead-set on committing a crime, buy someone Sonic The Hedgehog or Sonic Unleashed at $20 each.

[Thanks, Stephen]

JoystiqXbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventurebanjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-Boltsensemble-studiosfable-2halohalo-warskung-fu-pandaleft-4-deadLionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2platinum-hitsrareRPGsegasonicsonic-the-hedgehogsonic-unleashedsonics-ultimate-genesis-collectionTeam-NinjaXbox-360Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2's changes in excruciating technical detail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2s-changes-in-excruciating-technical-detail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2s-changes-in-excruciating-technical-detail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2s-changes-in-excruciating-technical-detail/#commentsThere are a few extremely obvious differences between Ninja Gaiden 2 and Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. They work in different consoles, and one's got the word "Sigma" in the title. Oh, and there's the boob thing. Beyond that, however, we must turn to the experts.

Digital Foundry reports that the resolution has changed between the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 games. Sigma runs at 1280x718, effectively 720p, while the Xbox version ran at 1120x585. The resolution boost comes with some cuts: DF says the PS3 version loses some polygons, or rather some whole collections of polygons: Sigma 2 maintains a limit of six enemies or fewer in most situations, while Ninja Gaiden 2 "revels in throwing seven or eight opponents at you at any given point." Things that didn't get cut: The lighting effects, which are noticeably more advanced in the PlayStation 3 game.

DF also has a video demonstrating a stress test of sorts (forcing as many enemies onto the screen as possible). For some reason, we don't mind the idea of having slightly fewer ninja enemies stabbing us in the back at any time. These games are at their best when Ryu is juggling a few enemies, not when he's buried in them.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2's changes in excruciating technical detail originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 interview (plus: screenshot comparisons)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/video-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-interview-plus-screenshot-comparisons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/video-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-interview-plus-screenshot-comparisons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/video-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-interview-plus-screenshot-comparisons/#comments
Given an extra year of development, it's no wonder why the Sigma version of Ninja Gaiden 2 is so far improved over the original. The upcoming PS3 exclusive adds a ton of new features, ranging from awesome to downright ridiculous. GamesWire took screenshots of the original Xbox 360 Ninja Gaiden 2 and compared them with the new Sigma edition, noting, "The lighting and textures are just so much better this time around and there's much more detail to be seen now too."

Additionally, the PlayStation.blog took some time (10 minutes, actually) to show off the various features of Sigma. You'll get to see the Ultimate Ninpo in action, as well as an extended look at the new co-op mode -- and yes, you'll even see the franchise's notorious Game Over screen. Check that out after the break.

[Thanks, Jeremy B.!]

Source - Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 - PlayStation 3 vs Xbox 360 Comparison
Source - Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 Interview and Walkthrough with Team Ninja's Yosuke Hayashi

Continue reading Video: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 interview (plus: screenshot comparisons)

JoystiqVideo: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 interview (plus: screenshot comparisons) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comparisonninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoyosuke-hayashiFri, 18 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 includes Chapter Challenge, Ninja Records modes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-includes-chapter-challenge-ninja-records-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-includes-chapter-challenge-ninja-records-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-includes-chapter-challenge-ninja-records-m/#comments
If there's one thing ninjas love more than totally sweet acts of acrobatic violence, it's -- no, wait. There's nothing they love more than totally sweet acts of acrobatic violence. However, high up on the list, sandwiched between guitar solos and dead pirates, is competition. Fortunately, it seems Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 will possess this quality in spades -- a recent Playstation.Blog update revealed the game's two new competitive modes, titled Chapter Challenge and Ninja Records.

Chapter Challenge is unlocked once you finish the single-player campaign, and allows you to replay your favorite levels, ultimately measuring your final "Karma" score against other players on a global leaderboard. Ninja Records will supply an exhaustive list of statistics based on your play style -- highest score, largest combo, fastest time, number of sweet guitar solos -- that sort of thing.

In addition, the post reveals the design for the GameStop pre-order bonus costume, the addition of a soundtrack to the game's limited edition, and the second Japanese advertisement for the game, which we've posted after the jump. Sorry to disappoint, but it doesn't contain any plaster lady chests.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 includes Chapter Challenge, Ninja Records modes

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 includes Chapter Challenge, Ninja Records modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionchapter-challengeninjaninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2ninja-recordsteam-ninjatecmoTue, 11 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Sigma 2-exclusive Momiji slash up some ninjas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/watch-sigma-2-exclusive-momoji-slash-up-some-ninjas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/watch-sigma-2-exclusive-momoji-slash-up-some-ninjas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/watch-sigma-2-exclusive-momoji-slash-up-some-ninjas/#comments
You've probably read the laundry list of all the things that are new to the PS3-exclusive version of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Among the list of three new playable characters is Momiji, first introduced in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword on Nintendo DS. Check out the footage after the break and watch as a proficient player (ie. not us) slashes through a horde of ninjas -- and don't miss her sweet bow & arrow.

We're still a bit miffed that his version is missing the gore that made the original Ninja Gaiden 2 notorious. Guess we'll have to stick with this improved -- and artsier -- version.

Continue reading Watch Sigma 2-exclusive Momiji slash up some ninjas

JoystiqWatch Sigma 2-exclusive Momiji slash up some ninjas originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>momijininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjaFri, 03 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo Koei Europe officially formed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/tecmo-koei-europe-officially-formed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/tecmo-koei-europe-officially-formed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/tecmo-koei-europe-officially-formed/#comments
At long last, the fruits of the Koei-Tecmo merger have entered the world -- the conjoined companies lifted the veil off of Tecmo Koei Europe, or TKE, as they've chosen to truncate it. Looks like we'll have to stop associating that acronym with beer pong tournaments and terrifying hazing rituals.

The newly formed studio will focus on obtaining the Western success the two companies highlighted around the time of their merging -- a goal it will likely achieve with the first game to be released under the TKE brand name: The PS3 version of Ninja Gaiden 2. Ninjas, buxom heroines and more ninjas -- that's certainly a recipe for an American and European blockbuster.

JoystiqTecmo Koei Europe officially formed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mergerninja-gaiden-2tecmo-koei-europetkeFri, 26 Jun 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 box art revealed, Only For PlayStation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-box-art-revealed-only-for-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-box-art-revealed-only-for-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-box-art-revealed-only-for-playstation/#comments
Click to see the PS3 box in high resolution.
My, my how things have changed. The former Xbox 360-exclusive Ninja Gaiden 2 is now the PS3-exclusive Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Is this the first game that's been able to wear the "Only On" stickers for both the PS3 and 360? Perhaps. While Sigma 2 may be an enhanced port of the original Ninja Gaiden 2, it features a number of new features that are, as the box says, "only on PlayStation."

Most exciting of the new features are the new playable characters: Ninja Gaiden's Rachel, Dead or Alive's Ayane, and Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword's Momiji. The PS3 version will also feature a new online co-op mode not found in the original that lets you and a friend take on ten different stages. Finally, the game is touting "variable AI," which allows "the gameplay [to differ] each time you appear in a level as enemies engage in a variety of different actions as they assess the situation." Whatever that means.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 box art revealed, Only For PlayStation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-artninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 26 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomonobu Itagaki returns with new team, new game, same badass attitude]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/tomonobu-itagaki-returns-with-new-team-new-game-same-badass-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/tomonobu-itagaki-returns-with-new-team-new-game-same-badass-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/tomonobu-itagaki-returns-with-new-team-new-game-same-badass-at/#comments
During a recent interview with 1UP, ex-Tecmo employee and leather lover Tomonobu Itagaki (along with comrades Hiroaki Matsui, Katsunori Ehara, and Yoshifuru Okamoto) iterated that he is returning to gaming, and will be backed up by a brand new team on a project for a future game. Unfortunately, we won't see anything on this new game at next week's E3, although Itagaki did confirm he would be in attendance.

The new company is tentatively called "Tokyo Vikings" (how ... appropriate) and is largely comprised of ex-Team Ninja staff, including a majority of the folks who worked on Ninja Gaiden 2. Surprisingly, his new team even managed to snag some key character designers from Virtua Fighter 5.

Itagaki was overall pretty tight-lipped about the new team and its mystery project, but did confirm that it wouldn't be a fighting game, as Itagaki is sure he's hit the ceiling there with Dead or Alive 4. He wouldn't comment on whether it would be an Xbox 360 exclusive, or heading to other consoles such as the PS3, but his past affiliations with Microsoft might suggest a likely path for his future games.

JoystiqTomonobu Itagaki returns with new team, new game, same badass attitude originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 May 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hiroaki-matsuijapankatsunori-eharakoeininja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmotecmo-koeitokyo-vikingstomonobu-itagakivirtua-fighter-5yoshifuru-okamotoWed, 27 May 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu reveals Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/famitsu-reveals-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/famitsu-reveals-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/famitsu-reveals-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-for-ps3/#comments
Though Ryu Hayabusa and his reckless vendetta against all manner of attached limbs might be contrary to the more ... subtle approaches employed by a traditional ninja, we don't recall anybody complaining too vehemently while they were jumping off a wall and decapitating a hundred demonic spider things. According to a recent issue of Japanese mag Famitsu, PlayStation 3 owners are set to get another taste of Team Ninja's action franchise, in the form of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.

Much like the original Sigma reworked the Xbox's Ninja Gaiden (to former Team Ninja designer Tomonobu Itagaki's chagrin), Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 appears to be a modified version of the Xbox 360's Ninja Gaiden 2. Images depict several familiar environments and characters, along with some new shots of Dead or Alive's Ayane, who may be a playable character.

Expect more details to be formally announced over the next week, including confirmation on whether this is "a loss of face for everyone involved." We certainly expect monster faces to get the worst of it.

[Thanks, Robert]

JoystiqFamitsu reveals Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FamitsuJapanNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2Ninja-Gaiden-Sigma-2Team-NinjaTecmoTue, 17 Mar 2009 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLM Deal of the Week: Ninja Gaiden II DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/xblm-deal-of-the-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/xblm-deal-of-the-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/xblm-deal-of-the-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-dlc/#commentsThe latest content inducted into the recently revived XBLM Deal of Week program is the Ninja Gaiden II Mission Mode DLC, which will be available for 560 ($7). A $3 savings off the normal price.

According to a comment made by Major Nelson on his official blog, the Ninja Gaiden II DLC will be available for purchase off the XBLM at the cheaper price beginning Monday, March 2 and will remain discounted until Sunday, March 8.

As is with all Deal of the Week offers, only Xbox Live gold members can purchase the marked down content. Something that may have bothered Live silver members last week when Braid was only $10, but probably not so much this time. Seven smackers for the Mission Mode DLC is still mighty expensive. Especially for a game whose all-star ninja has been off the gaming radar for quite some time.

JoystiqXBLM Deal of the Week: Ninja Gaiden II DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Mar 2009 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdeal-of-the-weekmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaxblmSun, 01 Mar 2009 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy's $10 sale: Ninja Gaiden II, Turok & more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/best-buys-10-sale-ninja-gaiden-ii-turok-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/best-buys-10-sale-ninja-gaiden-ii-turok-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/best-buys-10-sale-ninja-gaiden-ii-turok-and-more/#commentsFiled under:


Holy Hannah! We aren't exactly sure how we missed the money savings event going on at Best Buy stores (we blame the unnatural alignment of the moon and sun), but we have to share even if we're a bit late on reporting. Online at BestBuy.com or in-store you can take advantage of their $10 Xbox 360 game sale. For just one Hamilton ($9.99 to be exact), you can own a new and guaranteed to be shrink wrapped copy of Ninja Gaiden II, Facebreaker, Condemned 2, MLB 2K8 or Turok. How can you say no to those deals?

If you're okay with dropping $20 on a new game, Best Buy has a few 360 titles in that price range including (but not limited to) Bad Company, UT3 and Quake Wars. Happy shopping!

JoystiqBest Buy's $10 sale: Ninja Gaiden II, Turok & more originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buycondemned-2dealsdiscountsfacebreakerninja-gaiden-2turokTue, 13 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sun. deals: Gift cards with Pure, Silent Hill and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/sun-deals-gift-cards-with-pure-silent-hill-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/sun-deals-gift-cards-with-pure-silent-hill-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/sun-deals-gift-cards-with-pure-silent-hill-and-more/#commentsFiled under:


Here we go again, a weekly gaming deals roundup thanks to X3F. We search for 360 deals, because we like saving money and because we care about your bank account. So, let's do this.

This week at Best Buy, you can grab a free $10 gift card with the purchase of Pure and a free Silent Hill DVD with purchase of Silent Hill: Homecoming. Target has CoD4, Battlefield: Bad Company, and LEGO Indiana Jones for $39. Our retailer friends over at Circuit City are giving out free Pyramid keychains with Silent Hill: Homecoming, free $10 gift cards with both Pure and Baja: Edge of Control, Rock Band bundles for $139, and they have wireless controllers for $5 off. And the bonus deal this week is over at Circuit City where, with the purchase of either Rock Band, Ninja Gaiden II, Tiger Woods 09 or Madden 09, you can score a free $20 gift card. W00t to that.

JoystiqSun. deals: Gift cards with Pure, Silent Hill and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baja-edge-of-controldealsmadden-09ninja-gaiden-2purerock-bandsilent-hill-homecomingSun, 28 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 2 strikes swiftly, sells a million copies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/ninja-gaiden-2-strikes-swiftly-sells-a-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/ninja-gaiden-2-strikes-swiftly-sells-a-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/ninja-gaiden-2-strikes-swiftly-sells-a-million-copies/#commentsFiled under: ,


Microsoft and Tecmo announced today that Ninja Gaiden II has sold a million copies worldwide over the last two months. It's the sort of good news Tecmo could use while it faces a buyout by Square Enix.

Ninja Gaiden II was well received when it released, but was criticized for not being as balanced as the original and for failing to rectify the hilariously wonky camera positioning. Game sales are great, but here's what we really want to know: How many people bought the Ninja Gaiden II "horse armor" on XBLM?

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden II

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 2 strikes swiftly, sells a million copies originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmoXbox-360Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Zero Punctuation takes a katana to Ninja Gaiden 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/zero-punctuation-takes-a-katana-to-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/zero-punctuation-takes-a-katana-to-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/zero-punctuation-takes-a-katana-to-ninja-gaiden-2/#commentsFiled under:


It's been a while since Zero Punctuation's Yahtzee has loosed his venom on an unsuspecting Xbox 360 game. It's been far too long, really. Thankfully, Yahtzee's latest review is for none other than the Xbox 360's would-be premier action game, Ninja Gaiden 2. Expecting the worst, as we tend to do with ZP reviews, it turns out that he actually likes it ... to a degree, citing strengths (gameplay) and weaknesses (glitches and uneven difficulty). Frankly, we think it's a perfectly rational way to feel about the game (except for his preference of the claws, which pale in comparison to the double katanas). Check out the review after the break.

Continue reading Zero Punctuation takes a katana to Ninja Gaiden 2

JoystiqZero Punctuation takes a katana to Ninja Gaiden 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosng2ngiininja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoWed, 06 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: NG2 'Mission Mode' DLC on July 25th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/confirmed-ng2-mission-mode-dlc-on-july-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/confirmed-ng2-mission-mode-dlc-on-july-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/confirmed-ng2-mission-mode-dlc-on-july-25th/#commentsFiled under: ,

Thanks to some Xbox Live Marketplace advertising, we've already known about the latest Ninja Gaiden 2 downloadable content headed our way this month. Well, today Microsoft officially confirmed its existence and some DLC details announcing a new NG2 Mission Mode pack of DLC.

The Mission Mode DLC will release later this month on July 25th and include 25 various mini-challenges where players are tested to stay alive the longest, kill with certain weapons and other tasks. And, of course, all high scores will be tracked via online leaderboards. The new game mode will not come cheap though, as it's slated to release for an "ouch" inducing 800 Microsoft points. Then again, NG2 fanboys should be used to expensive DLC by now anyway.

JoystiqConfirmed: NG2 'Mission Mode' DLC on July 25th originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ngiininja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxblmThu, 10 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ninja Gaiden II receiving Mission Mode July 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/rumor-ninja-gaiden-ii-receiving-mission-mode-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/rumor-ninja-gaiden-ii-receiving-mission-mode-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/rumor-ninja-gaiden-ii-receiving-mission-mode-july-25/#commentsFiled under: ,


Ninja Gaiden 2 will receive Mission Mode as DLC on July 25, according to a post on NeoGAF. Mission Mode, if similar to the original iteration introduced in Ninja Gaiden Black, drops Ryu into an arena setting and lets him go on a flippin' awesome ninja killin' spree. There is currently no price attached to the new Mission Mode DLC.

The possibility of a Mission Mode should come as good news to NG II players who don't find dressing up Ryu like a Ken doll a worthwhile activity. But, let's be honest, if it's anything like the original Mission Mode, shouldn't it have been shipped with the game or, and we're hoping this is the case, at least be free?

[Via X3F]

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden II

JoystiqRumor: Ninja Gaiden II receiving Mission Mode July 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiryu-hayabusaxbmXbox-360Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: NG2 gets worthwhile DLC July 25?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/rumor-ng2-gets-worthwhile-dlc-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/rumor-ng2-gets-worthwhile-dlc-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/rumor-ng2-gets-worthwhile-dlc-july-25/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Thank you sharp-eyed forum posters, you may have spotted something that could mean Ninja Gaiden 2 will actually get some content worth paying for. Mentioned over at NeoGAF, and spotted somewhere on the XBL Marketplace, was the mention that NG2 will get a downloadable mission mode on the 25th of this month.

The mission mode that was in the original iteration was incredibly popular among the franchise faithful for its focus on the game's main strength: pure combat. There are of course no details on how the implementation will work, but as long as it isn't just more of the Tests of Valor (we're really tired of that environment) we'll be ready to shell out the points if this hits on the 25th. Anyone else out there spot this on the Marketplace yet?

JoystiqRumor: NG2 gets worthwhile DLC July 25? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcmicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaxblmWed, 02 Jul 2008 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 2 'horse armor' now on sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-horse-armor-now-on-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-horse-armor-now-on-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-horse-armor-now-on-sale/#commentsFiled under:

ng2
Let's face it, we hardcore gamers are always looking for an excuse to play ninja dress-up. After obliterating tens of thousands of nameless, demonic foes, what greater satisfaction could there be than in donning a leopard print bodysuit and doing it all over again? That's the thing, palette swaps used to be bonuses for our hard-earned mileage; easter eggs buried at the end of the playing field. Not premium DLC.

In the real world, buying a sassy lil' getup can be a cathartic release. In virtual land you just feel like a chump. So Tecmo, Team Ninja, Microsoft, whoever, take your Ninja Gaiden "horse armor" and shove it!

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden 2 'horse armor' now on sale

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 2 'horse armor' now on sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlchorse-armorninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmoxblmXbox-360Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 2 Costume Concept Art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-costume-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-costume-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-costume-concept-art/#commentsFiled under:

To go with the overpriced and and relatively pointless downloadable costumes for Ninja Gaiden 2, we've got even more relatively pointless stuff for you. Why would we do such a thing you ask? Because cheap as the actual DLC is (we're really opposed to it more on principle) this relatively pointless stuff is absolutely free, that's why. And while we've seen one of the DLC concepts before, the shots are now hi-res and great for some backgrounds or wallpaper. What're ya waitin' for? Right-Click -> Save Picture As already!

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 2 Costume Concept Art originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contentmicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaWed, 02 Jul 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Too expensive Ninja Gaiden II costume DLC now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/too-expensive-ninja-gaiden-ii-costume-dlc-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/too-expensive-ninja-gaiden-ii-costume-dlc-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/too-expensive-ninja-gaiden-ii-costume-dlc-now-available/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just as was promised a few months back, the Itagaki-less Team Ninja and Microsoft Game Studios have partnered to release three chunks of new Ninja Gaiden II downloadable content to the XBLM. Content that we've previously compared to Oblivion's legendarily overpriced horse armor, because for comparative purposes, that's what it is. The NGII DLC comes in the form of three costume packs that allows you to cloth Ryu in five color variations of either Biometal, Shadow Walker or Fiend Hayabusa duds (all viewable here). The rub, each costume variant will cost you 200 Microsoft points. Ouchy! Ouchy indeed.
  • Biometal Hayabusa Costume Pack - 200
  • Shadow Walker Hayabusa Costume Pack - 200
  • Fiend Hayabusa Costume Pack - 200
[Photo via GameSpot forums]

JoystiqToo expensive Ninja Gaiden II costume DLC now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxblmWed, 02 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: Win 1600 MS Point codes and Ninja Gaiden 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/fanswag-win-1600-ms-point-codes-and-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/fanswag-win-1600-ms-point-codes-and-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/fanswag-win-1600-ms-point-codes-and-ninja-gaiden-2/#commentsFiled under:


This is the last day of our 3 day Microsoft Point extravaganza. Today we're really upping the ante. Today we have ten 1600 MS Point codes to giveaway and we're also throwing in Ninja Gaiden 2 for our grand prize winner! In honor of Ryu and his ninja skills, we thought it fitting to also giveaway his would-be nemesis, Kung Fu Panda, to our second prize winner (at least it has achievement points, right?). For your shot at one of the ten codes, Ninja Gaiden 2 and Kung Fu Panda, follow the instructions below.
  • Leave a comment on this post telling us what you would buy with 1600 Microsoft Points. We don't care if it's actually on the Marketplace or not.
  • Only one comment per person will be accepted. Posters of multiple comments will be disqualified. We'll accept entries until 6:00PM Eastern time today, June 20, 2008. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. This giveaway is open only to residents of the U.S. and Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Later today, we'll pick 10 winners via a random drawing
  • One grand prize winner will receive a redemption code for 1600 Microsoft Points and a copy of Ninja Gaiden 2, worth a total of $80; one second place winner will receive a redemption code for 1600 Microsoft Points and a copy of Kung Fu Panda, worth a total of $60; and eight third place winners will each receive a redemption code for 1600 Microsoft Points, worth $20 each.
  • Complete giveaway rules can be found here

JoystiqFanswag: Win 1600 MS Point codes and Ninja Gaiden 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fanswagkung-fu-pandang2ninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F TV -- Points>Life: Lazy Ninja Technique]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/x3f-tv-points-life-lazy-ninja-technique/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/x3f-tv-points-life-lazy-ninja-technique/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/x3f-tv-points-life-lazy-ninja-technique/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Each week, X3F tips gamers to the tricks of the trade of Achievement hording in Points>Life. Every week a new achievement is unlocked to help you continue your unhealthy obsession with the Xbox 360 meta-game.

In honor of our brand new Ninja Gaiden II page, Points>Life is tackling an achievement from Xbox 360's Summer mega-action release, Ninja Gaiden II. Having difficulties landing a 100-hit combo? That wonky camera got you down? Just want 20 random points? You've come to the right place!

Check out the video above for a few helpful tips and if you have any tricks of your own, make sure to leave them in the comments!

Also, make sure to check out our retrospective features on Tomonobu Itagaki and the Ninja Gaiden Series itself.

Music: "Ninja Gaiden" by minibosses

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JoystiqX3F TV -- Points>Life: Lazy Ninja Technique originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievement-pointsachievementsitagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iipoints-greater-than-lifepoints-lifeteam-ningatecmox3f-tvTue, 10 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing the Ninja Gaiden II page]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/introducing-the-ninja-gaiden-ii-page/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/introducing-the-ninja-gaiden-ii-page/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/introducing-the-ninja-gaiden-ii-page/#commentsFiled under:


Ladies and gentlmen, fanboys and girls, Xbox 360 Fanboy presents the Ninja Gaiden II page. This is our first page dedicated to a single game (you may have seen similar pages on Joystiq). On the page you will find all the major Ninja Gaiden II news stories, every Ninja Gaiden II screenshot, and all the Ninja Gaiden II features compiled into a single, bookmark-friendly page. The page will be updated as time goes on to include other features and stories as well (including an upcoming episode of Points>Life). This is only the first dedicated game page on X3F. Expect more to show up in the future. With major 360 exclusives right around the corner (Gears of War 2, Fable 2), there's plenty to cover.

For all things Ninja Gaiden II, check out the page right now.

JoystiqIntroducing the Ninja Gaiden II page originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiTue, 10 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharpen your swords for a Weekend of Vengeance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/sharpen-your-swords-for-a-weekend-of-vengeance/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/sharpen-your-swords-for-a-weekend-of-vengeance/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/sharpen-your-swords-for-a-weekend-of-vengeance/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hopefully you've perfected your ninja skills playing the Ninja Gaiden II demo, because the ninja lessons you've learned will be tested come Friday when Xbox Live hosts a Weekend of Vengeance.

Celebrating the release of Ninja Gaiden II, this Weekend of Vengeance which runs from June 13th through June 15th will feature an Achieve and Win sweepstakes where a few NGII themed Xbox 360s will be up for grabs as well as three XBVM ninja movies (Ninja Hunter, A Life of Ninja and Ninja in the Deadly Trap) will be available for download. For free! Finally, if you haven't been keeping track, all seven Live exclusive Ask a Ninja episodes will be downloadable as well. This weekend, be vengeful, be a ninja and be deadly ...

JoystiqSharpen your swords for a Weekend of Vengeance originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxbox-liveMon, 09 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Give Dad the gift of gaming with Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/give-dad-the-gift-of-gaming-with-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/give-dad-the-gift-of-gaming-with-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/give-dad-the-gift-of-gaming-with-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under:


Hey Canadians, thinking about getting your father into gaming? While our dads can barely program the VCR, yours may possess the keen insight to pull off a 100-hit combo in Ninja Gaiden II. Best Buy and FutureShop have a few special promotion bundles available just in time for Father's Day that you may want to take a look at.

At Best Buy, purchasing an Xbox 360 Elite package will allow you to choose from four pre-selected bundles that groups such titles as Grand Theft Auto IV with Tomb Raider Anniversary or Lego Indiana Jones with Lego Star Wars: The Original Trilogy to name a few for $449.99 CND.

Purchasing either the Premium ($349.99 CND) or Elite ($449.99) consoles at FutureShop will net you your choice of GTAIV, Ninja Gaiden II, Lego Indiana Jones or The Bourne Conspiracy.

Full details on Best Buy's offer and a clipping from the FutureShop bundle after the jump.

Continue reading Give Dad the gift of gaming with Xbox 360

JoystiqGive Dad the gift of gaming with Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybourne-conspiracycanadian-promofutureshopgtaivlego-indiana-jonesninja-gaiden-2Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II demo sneaks into North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-sneaks-into-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-sneaks-into-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-sneaks-into-north-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ever since the passing of controversial anti-Ninja legislation, importing Japan's deadliest natural resource into the States is a near-impossible process. Luckily, the Federal Trade Commission has recognized that Ninja Gaiden II is not an actual ninja, but instead, a circular platter of polycarbonate encapsulated in a decorated box and an irritating plastic sheath. They also noted that the ninja on the cover is an illustrated ninja, who poses little to no risk of flipping out and killing you in your sleep.

Thus, Ninja Gaiden II was cleared to launch in North America just in time for its June 3 release date -- though it took Team Ninja much longer to convince the FTC that the game's demo was not some sort of digital assassin, sent to kill the internets. Luckily, that bit of confusion was resolved today, and the Ninja Gaiden II demo is now available on Xbox Live. Conveniently enough, we can think of no better way of venting our anger over the demo's North American delay than to dismember some minions with frightening bladed weaponry.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II demo sneaks into North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventuredelaydemoMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2Team-NinjaXbox-360Sat, 07 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II demo slashes North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-slashes-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-slashes-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-slashes-north-america/#commentsFiled under: ,

After one too many broken promises, the previously Japanese exclusive bloody ninja demo goodness has finally made its way overseas and not a moment too soon. Today, U.S. and Canadian Xbox Live members are being treated to a new'ish Ninja Gaiden II demo that's available for download right this ninja-second via the XBLM. You'll also be excited to hear that the demo comes complete with the option to view Japanese or English subtitles! W00t! And, for those of you who'd like to view our take on what the demo has to offer, be sure to check out our Ninja Gaiden II demo impressions video while waiting for your 858MBs to download. Miss you Itagaki ...

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II demo slashes North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxblmSat, 07 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Now that Ninja Gaiden 2 developer Tomonobu Itagaki has departed from Tecmo and Team Ninja (and left a lawsuit in his stead), our friends at X3F have compiled a retrospective on Itagaki's career with the company. From his beginnings as a programmer for Tecmo Bowl, through Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden and all the way to his departure, everything is covered.

Join us as we take a stroll through memory lane and examine the games, the controversies and the impending future of Tomonobu Itagaki. Click here, get educated.

JoystiqTomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alivedoaxitagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaTecmotomonobu-itagakiXbox-360Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/#commentsFiled under:


With the news of his recent departure and the release of his final swan-song to the Ninja Gaiden series, Tomonobu Itagaki has had an amazing career.

We've already tackled the history of Ninja Gaiden in our previous retrospective, A History of Violence, but this time we're going back to look at one of Ryu's most influential allies.

In this special feature we look back at the history of the man and how he helped re-shape Tecmo in the early 90s to the company they are today. Join us as we take a stroll through memory lane and examine the games, the controversies and the impending future of Tomonobu Itagaki.

Continue reading Tomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History

JoystiqTomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiThu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo: Team Ninja still 'intact' after Itagaki's departure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/tecmo-team-ninja-still-intact-after-itagakis-departure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/tecmo-team-ninja-still-intact-after-itagakis-departure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/tecmo-team-ninja-still-intact-after-itagakis-departure/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following the resignation of outspoken game designer, Tomonobu Itagaki, and his subsequent lawsuit against his former employer, Tecmo has assured fans that its Team Ninja development studio remains "intact" and involved in "several new projects." In a statement issued to 1UP, the Tokyo-based publisher notes that, due to the legal complaint, it had "no choice" but to accept Itagaki's resignation, effective July 1, 2008.

The lawsuit is said to be tied to an outstanding incentive bonus for a past project, one which the parties could not amicably resolve. Tecmo states that it will let the court settle things and bring about a "true, fair, and quick resolution." As for the Team Ninja studio, it remains "committed to producing compelling and cutting edge games in order to maintain its reputation as a high quality developer and to continue to receive the support of its loyal fans."

While it's obvious that Tomonobu Itagaki didn't make games like Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden by himself, we wonder if another star developer will emerge to give Team Ninja an incendiary pass to the presses. Is this Itsygaki's time to shine?

[Thanks, Fattycop]

JoystiqTecmo: Team Ninja still 'intact' after Itagaki's departure originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead-or-AliveItagakiLawsuitNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2Team-NinjaTecmoXbox-360Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Would You Rather ... Future Ninja Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/would-you-rather-future-ninja-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/would-you-rather-future-ninja-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/would-you-rather-future-ninja-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


In our continuing effort to bring you fresh and interesting content, X3F presents Would You Rather ... a weekly feature that asks you the hard questions. The point? If you had to choose one or the other, which would you go for?

With his recent departure from Tecmo (well, technically he still works there until July 1), Tomonobu Itagaki has created the last Ninja Gaiden title of his career. It now appears to be obvious that his talk of Ninja Gaiden 2 being the last in the series stemmed from the knowledge of his future plans (aka quitting and suing parent company Tecmo). So, another Ninja Gaiden title is probably going to happen because franchises that make money don't disappear. The question is, do you think the folks at Team Ninja can do it without Itagaki?

We're sure they can, but ... would you want them to? So this week in WUR--a new Ninja Gaiden hits stores without Itagaki. What do you do soldier? What do you do? (Shooting a hostage is not an option).

Feel free to share the reasons for your vote in the comments. We'll share the results of the poll during the next edition of Would You Rather ... which hits X3F every Wednesday.

Last weeks WUR results can be find after the jump ... come in and check it out for free!

Continue reading Would You Rather ... Future Ninja Edition

JoystiqWould You Rather ... Future Ninja Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatomonobu-itagakiwould-you-ratherwurWed, 04 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Ninja Gaiden II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/metareview-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/metareview-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/metareview-ninja-gaiden-ii/#commentsFiled under:


The reviews for Ninja Gaiden II are in and thus far they paint the game as a solid action affair, though it doesn't come without its share of problems (and some . Mentioned in every review we scoured was the camera, which Eurogamer declares "awful - really, speechlessly awful." Still, while the reviews scrape together a pile of negatives -- poor plot, annoying camera, occasionally cheap bosses, steep difficulty -- they all agree that Ninja Gaiden II excels at what it does best, action.

  • IGN (8.7/10): "It's challenging and rewarding. It looks great in motion and it feels great to know you're the one at the helm, directing this bloody dance. It has its foibles and doesn't feel as rich as the last Ninja Gaiden, but this sequel still offers up a great ride.
  • 1UP (B-): "[The camera] drags along behind you like a wounded dog and wanders off on its own when you need it most. When fighting multiple enemies that are more than a sword's length away, it's a chore to constantly pull the right trigger (which forces the camera to face the same way as Ryu). When those enemies come armed with unblockable projectiles, it becomes damn annoying."
  • Eurogamer (7/10): "NG2 doesn't even need a map to guide you around, because the section you're looking for is clearly signposted by the absence of blood, gore and limbless torsos, which are strewn and caked all over everywhere you've been."
  • Team Xbox (9/10): "One thing you won't hear us complain about with Ninja Gaiden II is the difficulty. This is a tough game. Deal with it, or go play Devil May Cry."

JoystiqMetareview: Ninja Gaiden II originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ngiininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoTue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A History of Violence: A Ninja Gaiden Retrospective]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-a-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-a-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-a-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A little bird told us Ninja Gaiden II was coming out today. Actually, that bird was more like a note attached to a shuriken with a flower on it, but the message was all the same. In honor of the series milestone and in memory of the now-former Ninja Gaiden designer Tomonobu Itagaki, we present you with a series retrospective we're affectionately dubbing A History of Violence (hey, we thought it was clever). Click here and be educated.

JoystiqA History of Violence: A Ninja Gaiden Retrospective originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSitagaking2ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiPS3team-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiXbox-360Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[A History of Violence: Ninja Gaiden Retrospective]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/#commentsFiled under:


Twenty years ago a gaming icon was born. A ninja. Originally unknown to the world, gamers everywhere now know him as Ryu Hayabusa--star of today's hottest new release Ninja Gaiden II.

As the warrior Ryu steps into the shadows never to return again, we look back at his origins and humble beginnings. From the arcade, a brief stint at Sega, his wonder years at Nintendo and the new generation of HD-limb separating on the Xbox 360. This is his legacy, his legend, his history of violence.

Jump in and read the history of the videogame industry's favorite ultimate ninja!

JoystiqA History of Violence: Ninja Gaiden Retrospective originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-releasesfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesninjaninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiTue, 03 Jun 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Itagaki sues Tecmo, decides to leave Team Ninja]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/itagaki-sues-tecmo-decides-to-leave-team-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/itagaki-sues-tecmo-decides-to-leave-team-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/itagaki-sues-tecmo-decides-to-leave-team-ninja/#commentsFiled under:

As we eagerly await our chance to experience the Ninja Gaiden II demo we just caught wind of a VERY juicy announcement coming from Mr. cool shades, Ninja Gaiden creator and Team Ninja member Tomonobu Itagaki. Simply stated, Itagaki is suing Tecmo and just announced plans to leave Team Ninja ... ZOMG!

According to 1UP who received an official letter from one of Itagaki's aids, Itagaki reveals that he is suing Tecmo for 145 million yen due to "unpaid completion bonuses" and because Itagaki claims that there were "unreasonable and disingenuous statements made towards me" by Tecmo's president Yoshimi Yasuda which caused "significant emotional distress." The letter goes on to say that the lawsuit is based on a "strong intent to question the social responsibility of Tecmo Co., Ltd." and that Itagaki will resign from Tecmo effective July 1st. Ending his letter, Itagaki addresses his fans, saying that Ninja Gaiden II "will be the last Ninja Gaiden I will create", mentions that he will never "be able to make Dead or Alive 5" and, for that, Itagaki regrets "the disappointment this will cause" those who have enjoyed his work.

Wow ... we're speechless. Itagaki leaves Team Ninja, leaves behind franchises that he helped bring to life and leaves both his fans and the industry, well ... speechless. We can only assume that Itagaki's battle with Tecmo will be hard fought and is going to get very, very ugly.

JoystiqItagaki sues Tecmo, decides to leave Team Ninja originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagaking2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiTue, 03 Jun 2008 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 2 demo finally flips out of Japan tomorrow, not to US or Canada [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ninja-gaiden-2-demo-finally-flips-out-of-japan-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ninja-gaiden-2-demo-finally-flips-out-of-japan-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ninja-gaiden-2-demo-finally-flips-out-of-japan-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under:


Put down that Dragon Sword and peel off that ninja mask; despite a heretofore unexplained absence of the Ninja Gaiden 2 demo outside of Japan, you won't be forced to make do with your own ninja action. Xbox Live gatekeeper Major Nelson gives us a demonstration of real ultimate power by cracking enough skulls to get to the bottom of the mystery: the Ninja Gaiden 2 demo will be released worldwide (except Germany, verzeihung) at 5am tomorrow, Joystiq Time. Until then, let X3F take you on a tour of the Japanese demo to satisfy your ninja-fueled bloodlust, okay?

Update: Major Nelson has updated with an apology and a note: the demo will be available everywhere except India, Germany, US or Canada. (Via X3F)

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 2 demo finally flips out of Japan tomorrow, not to US or Canada [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoNinja-Gaiden-2XBLAXBLMXbox-360Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II demo hits Xbox Live tomorrow [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-hits-xbox-live-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-hits-xbox-live-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-hits-xbox-live-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: OK, so don't shoot the messenger. Major Nelson, apologetically updated his post regarding the Ninja Gaiden II demo for all regions. Originally the demo was to be available to all Xbox Live regions excluding Germany and India but now it turns out that you can add Canada and the US to that list. So, no Ninja Gaiden II demo tomorrow for Canadians or Americans. Major still suspects a demo will drop some time this late this week. Also, he promises to talk to a few people about the mix up. Somebody's gonna get-a hurt reeeeal bad (some NSFW Russell Peters love for you in this time of mourning).

Gamers outside of Japan eagerly anticipating a hands-on experience with Ninja Gaiden II only have a few hours to go. According to Major Nelson the demo for the upcoming action title will hit all Xbox Live regions (excluding Germany and India) at 0200 PT tomorrow.

Our fearless leader has already had a few days with the demo and expressed his love for it in the X3F TV Demo Impressions video late last week. Anyone on the fence about picking up the game should try out the demo when it launches tomorrow along side the retail release.

[Thanks, Glitch W again]

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II demo hits Xbox Live tomorrow [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demomicrosoft-game-studiosninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 02 Jun 2008 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: Real Ultimate Power edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/shipping-this-week-real-ultimate-power-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/shipping-this-week-real-ultimate-power-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/shipping-this-week-real-ultimate-power-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's finally here kids. Yes, it's the granddaddy of all ninja simulators, Ninja Gaiden. This particular entry in the series is somewhat anachronistically titled Ninja Gaiden II. We can tell you unreservedly (and from experience) that it is glorious in execution. It's also goriest in executions. Eviscerations abound as gamers take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, the superest of all super ninjas. But wait, what's that? There are more games shipping this week and they don't all suck? Whoa. Imagine our surprise. Behold this week's list:
Which of these will grace your 360's DVD drive?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShipping this week: Real Ultimate Power edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bourne-conspiracygridincredible-hulkkung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesninja-gaiden-2shipping-this-weekMon, 02 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Shiny Xbox prototype in Ninja Gaiden II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/video-shiny-xbox-prototype-in-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/video-shiny-xbox-prototype-in-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/video-shiny-xbox-prototype-in-ninja-gaiden-ii/#commentsFiled under: ,


After playing a few hours of his pre-release copy of Ninja Gaiden II (come one Microsoft, where's our love?), Godfree of Gamertag Radio found a shiny Xbox Easter egg. Hidden behind some wood paneling is what looks to be the prototype for the original Xbox, the shiny metallic box that never came into existence and was instead replaced by the big black Xbox we've all come to know and love. And seeing that we were unsuccessful in our attempt to Google for an image of the original Xbox prototype, we'll award +5 fanboy points to anyone who can find and link to a legit shiny Xbox image. Go! Go! Go! Thanks for the image DBoyFlex. You get +5 points!

JoystiqVideo: Shiny Xbox prototype in Ninja Gaiden II originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoSun, 01 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[360 Fanboy shows us real ultimate power with Ninja Gaiden II demo impressions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/360-fanboy-shows-us-real-ultimate-power-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-dem/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/360-fanboy-shows-us-real-ultimate-power-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-dem/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/360-fanboy-shows-us-real-ultimate-power-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-dem/#commentsFiled under: ,


We can think of a lot of great things to sell our souls for, such as telekinesis, a swimming pool full of hundred dollar bills, or a seventh season of Mr. Belvedere. However, Xbox 360 Fanboy's Richard Mitchell (or as we like to call him around the office, Rich Mitch) recently showed his undying love for scarved ninjas by dealing with Beelzebub to get his hands on an early copy of the Ninja Gaiden II demo. Judging by the tone of his impressions as he plays the first seven minutes of the preview, it was totally worth it.

We strongly advise watching the above video -- not only will it get you totally pumped for the quickly approaching June 3 release date for the title, but you can also witness Rich Mitch's incredible proclivity for ninja flipping and henchman dismemberment.

Joystiq360 Fanboy shows us real ultimate power with Ninja Gaiden II demo impressions originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360demoimpressionsninjaninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iirealultimatepowerrichardmitchellrichmitchryuhayabusateamninjaXbox-360xbox360Sat, 31 May 2008 17:00:00 EST