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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Real Ultimate Buying Power today on Amazon [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/real-ultimate-buying-power-today-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/real-ultimate-buying-power-today-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/real-ultimate-buying-power-today-on-amazon/#commentsFiled under:

"One skilled in the art of stealth -- Nintendo DS". That's the hint Amazon is offering for a Gold Box deal that will go up today at 6PM PST. We don't know the exact identity of the offer, but we can speculate!

Our guess is Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword, which just happens to be one of the best games of 2008. What a delight it would be to get it at one of the best prices of 2008! Other ninja-related games we can think of offhand include N+ (another honoree!), Ninjatown (wow, a lot of ninja games in our top 10), Tenchu: Dark Secret (not so great), various Naruto releases, the Izunas, Ninja Reflex, and Taito's Legend of Kage 2 -- which you can get for cheap right now.

[Update: it's Ninjatown for $20!]

JoystiqReal Ultimate Buying Power today on Amazon [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonDragon-Swordgold-boxizunalegend-of-kageNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSNinjatownWed, 31 Dec 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Download Service aims to improve your vocabulary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/ds-download-service-aims-to-improve-your-vocabulary/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/ds-download-service-aims-to-improve-your-vocabulary/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/ds-download-service-aims-to-improve-your-vocabulary/#commentsFiled under: ,

Another week means another dose of demos available on the Nintendo Channel. If you've got a Wii, you're in luck. If not, then we suggest you cruise past the break to see one of the many reasons why you should own one.

Continue reading DS Download Service aims to improve your vocabulary

JoystiqDS Download Service aims to improve your vocabulary originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventurecrosswordscrosswords-dsdemosDragon-Swordmy-word-coachNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSnintendo-channelTeam-NinjaTecmoubisoftMon, 04 Aug 2008 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your own Dragon Sword on the cheap]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/get-your-own-dragon-sword-on-the-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/get-your-own-dragon-sword-on-the-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/get-your-own-dragon-sword-on-the-cheap/#commentsFiled under:

Those who've been sitting on the fence, not content with a favorable review to force them to partake in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword in all its sword-slicing glory, now might be the time to come down from there and see what Ryu Hayabusa's latest adventure is all about. Popular retail website Newegg.com is offering the Tecmo title for $22.99 (+ $2.99 for 3 business day shipping).

The regular price for the game, as many of you might know, is $34.99, so this is a pretty good deal. Add on top of it the fact that the game is great and we can see little reason why you shouldn't have stopped reading this and instead be in the checkout section at Newegg right now, entering in your credit card information. For those of you without credit cards, just tie some money to a pigeon and send it their way. Regardless of how you pay, you really should own this game.


[Via CAG]

JoystiqGet your own Dragon Sword on the cheap originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dactiondragon-sworditagakininjaninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-dragon-swordtecmoThu, 15 May 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirate Gaiden: Dragon Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/26/pirate-gaiden-dragon-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/26/pirate-gaiden-dragon-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/26/pirate-gaiden-dragon-sword/#commentsFiled under: ,


It can be dangerous to buy DS or Game Boy Advance games online, because you might end up with something like the above. And while it might be worth a few dollars' worth of lulz, generally when you pay for a game, you want the actual game. And, ideally, the actual box.

NeoGAFfer Darunia bought a copy of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword online from a Dutch retailer, and got ... not quite Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. What he received is clearly a pirate copy, which, in addition to having unintentionally hilarious boxart (it's a quote from a 1p Start post pasted over the back of the Super Mario 64 DS box) and a buggy cartridge that can't save. Oh, and a decent NeoGAF thread.

JoystiqPirate Gaiden: Dragon Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-dragon-swordpiracytecmoSat, 26 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden's Yosuke Hayashi 'very interested' in Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/ninja-gaidens-yosuke-hayashi-very-interested-in-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/ninja-gaidens-yosuke-hayashi-very-interested-in-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/ninja-gaidens-yosuke-hayashi-very-interested-in-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo World Store held a special launch event for Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword for the DS. (Check out what the critics thought here.) Development director Yosuke Hayashi was available to sign copies of the game, and a formidable pack of fans lined up to meet and greet the man. Afterwards, we had a one-on-one chat about the game, and what he's looking forward to next.

It's no secret that Team Ninja has a reputation for being outspoken and confident in their products. Hayashi is no different. At TGS, we grilled Tomonobou Itagaki about DS action games, and he admitted he played none. However, Hayashi's statement is far more bold: "Itagaki may have said that he's never played any action DS games. But I've played a lot, and none of them were good enough to remember. There's no comparison [to Ninja Gaiden], right?"

"There's a very good possibility," Hayashi said when asked about the possibility of DS follow-up to Dragon Sword. "We want to offer a completely different side of the Ninja Gaiden series in a handheld title. There are so many things I can see we can work around if we work on another project."

However, a DS sequel may not be the first thing on Hayashi's mind. He talked about how so many fans at the Nintendo World Store wanted a Ninja Gaiden game for the Wii. Without going into details, he simply noted that it was something he was "very interested" in working on.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword launch

JoystiqNinja Gaiden's Yosuke Hayashi 'very interested' in Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventurebreakingnewsDragon-SwordDSinterviewjoystiqfeaturesNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSNintendoTeam-NinjaTecmoWiiyosuke-hayashiMon, 31 Mar 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword (DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/metareview-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/metareview-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/metareview-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

During last year's Tokyo Game Show, outspoken game designer Tomonobu Itagaki issued us a bit of a challenge. "If there's a game out there that is more beautiful, more interactive, faster and has better action than this game," he said, "please let me know." Well, it looks like such a title may still be absent from the DS catalog, as reviewers have had some awfully nice things to say about the short-but-sweet Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword.

Honestly, we should have seen this coming, what with a fairly obvious clue buried in the game's title. Cross some things out, tilt your head to the left and ... voila!

Ninja Gaiden :D ragon Sword
  • Gametrailers (88/100): "Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword proves to have a sharp edge with good tech and smooth pacing. It also manages to turn the stylus into an effective ninja weapon, making it play like no other game on Nintendo's little dual screen."
  • IGN (86/100): "Very few developers outside of Nintendo are truly willing to take the risk of experimenting a brand new way of playing an established franchise, but Tecmo's Team Ninja did just that with its DS-exclusive design. The risk worked: Ninja Gaiden on the Nintendo DS is a really great game that offers a fresh, unique take on action games, and gives the touch-screen handheld gamers something that they'll never see on any other platform."
  • Game Informer Online (78/100): "Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword is a commendable attempt at making a straight-up action game on the DS. I like the combat and the mechanics, and even though the battles get repetitive, it's frantic and fun enough to occasionally make you forget that fact."

JoystiqMetareview -- Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword (DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SwordDSNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSNintendoTeam-NinjaTecmoThu, 27 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Ninja to award high-scoring ninjas with branded iPod]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/team-ninja-to-award-high-scoring-ninjas-with-branded-ipod/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/team-ninja-to-award-high-scoring-ninjas-with-branded-ipod/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/team-ninja-to-award-high-scoring-ninjas-with-branded-ipod/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ninja dogs need not apply. This sweet 8gb iPod Nano you're feasting your eyes on will only be attainable by the most skilled assassins in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. Of course, this is all based on machine translation, so you'll have to forgive us some misinterpretation.

It appears that there will be three different ways that folks can enter for their chance at the Nano. For one, there looks to be a specific difficulty setting that will apply to this giveaway, meaning that players who partake in the game while in this difficulty setting can upload their high score for entry. Second, players can collect certain in-game prizes (or tokens, we're assuming). Third, there's an online survey that can be filled out.

Seems fairly easy to us, and there will be a total of 15 Nanos up for grabs. The contest period began on March 21st and ends on April 16th. Again, we're not certain this applies to folks outside of Japan, so keep that in mind.

JoystiqTeam Ninja to award high-scoring ninjas with branded iPod originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SworditagakiNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSTeam-NinjaTecmoMon, 24 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Hopes regarding a certain ninja]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/ds-daily-hopes-regarding-a-certain-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/ds-daily-hopes-regarding-a-certain-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/ds-daily-hopes-regarding-a-certain-ninja/#commentsFiled under:

Personally, we can't wait for next week, as it sees the release of Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword, the stylus-driven entry in Itagaki's ninjatastic franchise. We're really hoping that the game will help validate other entries in more established franchises on the handheld.

Are you all as excited for this game as we are? Did you read some of the reviews and decide for or against the game? Are you as hopeful as we are that the handheld might start seeing some solid 3D action titles now?

JoystiqDS Daily: Hopes regarding a certain ninja originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-sworditagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-dragon-swordteam-ninjaWed, 19 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Ninja Gaiden scan action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/more-ninja-gaiden-scan-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/more-ninja-gaiden-scan-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/more-ninja-gaiden-scan-action/#commentsFiled under:


Click image to enlarge


For those of you who're as excited for Team Ninja's upcoming DS entry in the Ninja Gaiden series, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, as we are, feast your eyes on some fresh scans from Famitsu. It looks like the focus here is on stylus controls and how players will execute everything through the touch screen, from the mundane regular attack to the destructive special attack.

Head past the break for the second scan.

Continue reading More Ninja Gaiden scan action

JoystiqMore Ninja Gaiden scan action originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-swordfamitsuitagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-dragon-swordscansteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-tagakiFri, 08 Feb 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Itagaki talks up Ninja Gaiden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/itagaki-talks-up-ninja-gaiden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/itagaki-talks-up-ninja-gaiden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/itagaki-talks-up-ninja-gaiden/#commentsFiled under:

It's no secret that we totally love Tomonobu Itagaki. It's a kind of love that few can experience in their life, as it drives you to do things you otherwise wouldn't do. Like, get a restraining order filed against you. It's okay, though. In Itagaki we trust.

It's also no secret that Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword is going to be one of the year's most highly-anticipated games on the console. In fact, Itagaki commented that he's been approached with many offers to use his game engine. This could mean more DS games utilizing his innovative stylus-driven control scheme down the line.

And, if you needed another reason to pick the game up, listen to Itagaki. He says if you "consider yourself a true gamer, you owe it to yourself to play this game. If you don't, you'll be missing one of the breakthrough experiences in video gaming. This is an incredibly innovative piece of software."

We're sold. If you're not, maybe you should download the demo?

JoystiqItagaki talks up Ninja Gaiden originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SworditagakiNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSTeam-NinjaTecmotomonobu-itagakiThu, 31 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2008's Biggest Blips: Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/2008s-biggest-blips-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/2008s-biggest-blips-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/2008s-biggest-blips-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword/#commentsFiled under:

Developer: Team Ninja
Publisher: Tecmo
Release: March

There is a certain DS title on the horizon: Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. As a person who enjoys the finer things in life, like the silent "fwip" of a poisoned dart hitting your enemy's throat or the grace of emerging from the shadows to slice your enemy's stomach, spilling his intestines onto the bamboo floor beneath you, this game is likely the focal point of your life right now. Your only reason for accessing DS Fanboy on any kind of regular basis is only in the hopes that there will be new Ninja Gaiden news.

If none of this rings true to you, then perhaps some personal reflection is in order. Have you perhaps considered you are not a ninja, nor are you fascinated with the world's most efficient killer? Should this be the case, we have a surefire way to make sure you let in the unimaginable power to dispatch the living and accept the Ninja as the world's most awesome thing ever, all in a matter of days.

First of all, we have to list the givens:
  • You must quit your job
  • Leave your loved ones, making sure only to take one internet-accessing device (so you can read the rest of this, unless you want to use a pen and paper like some jerk), one bowl of rice and your DS
  • Make your way to the mountains of Tibet
Okay, now you're in Tibet. First thing you need to do is throw out the bowl of rice. Ninja don't get hungry; hunger fears the power of the ninja. The ninja sustains its life through the destruction of its enemies. It feeds on the perfection of silently killing its target and making its way off into the night.

Next, you need to hook it up with Google maps and search for your local video rental store. Actually, there aren't that many in Tibet, so head back to your residence (maybe you should have just written this all down or printed it out?). Look up a Hollywood Video or a Blockbuster and go in. Find the nearest employee and ask them to point you toward the Ninja section. If they don't have a Ninja section, pull out your DS and use it to smack that unhelpful person in the face. Then, ask them to point you toward American Ninja.

Once face-to-case with the film, you'll have little time before the cops show up. You won't be able to take them on now at this point in your training, so grab everything that says American Ninja on it and duck out of the door. Once out of the store, put your heels to the pavement and run as fast as you can back to your family.

As you arrive at your former home, take care to enter as silently as possible. Your former spouse may have found someone new in the period since your departure and your training may need to be accelerated. Your primary goal is to find your VCR or DVD player, extract it and abscond to somewhere safe so that you may view these films.



Now is the time to absorb this material and carefully study each and every film in the American Ninja franchise you were able to make off with. You must watch them and emulate every single one of Dudikoff's moves, with your DS's stylus firmly gripped in hand. And only after learning from the master may you attempt your next task: securing your copy of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword.

By this time in your ninja career, it is now March and the release of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword is quickly approaching. It would have to be before you could realistically master the skills of Michael Dudikoff. And now is your true test, as you must leave your dojo in the hunt for Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword.



Now is the time for real-world practice, as seen in the video above.

It is here that your true skills will be put to the test. You have trained hard and you have been faced with many trials. You will have to make your way into a convenient retail location, procure the DS title, pay off the cashier and return to your sanctuary. It is a difficult task. We wish you luck.


Professor Layton
 Back Duck!

Joystiq2008's Biggest Blips: Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>08blipsActionAdventureDragon-SworditagakiNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSTeam-NinjaTecmoMon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword unsheathed on March 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-unsheathed-on-march-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-unsheathed-on-march-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-unsheathed-on-march-25/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nintendo's latest release schedule has cut through the fog of ambiguity and pinned the arrival of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword to the pleasingly specific date of March 25th. We only had "March 2008" to go on before and have thus avoided wasting 24 days of the month scouring shelves and phoning overly smug store clerks.

Though Tecmo has told us that the shipping date may change if the final code isn't approved in time, it's the one they're currently targeting like... whatever ham-fisted Ninja metaphor we could work into this sentence. For more information on Ryu Hayabusa's DS debut, check out our hands-on with the game and interview with Team Ninja's Tomonobu Itagaki.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden: Dragon Sword unsheathed on March 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureBreakingNewsDragon-SwordDSItagakiNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSNintendoTeam-NinjaTecmoTomonobu-ItagakiWed, 16 Jan 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden screens assassinate our patience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/ninja-gaiden-screens-assassinate-our-patience/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/ninja-gaiden-screens-assassinate-our-patience/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/ninja-gaiden-screens-assassinate-our-patience/#commentsFiled under:


We recently came across some fresh screens for our most anticipated Ninja game of the year (and no, we're not talking about Ninja Reflex, silly). We're really impressed with some of the cutscene artwork in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, and we're salivating as we wait for the game's March release date. If you're looking forward to this game like we are, be sure to stealthily make your way past the break for more screens.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden screens assassinate our patience

JoystiqNinja Gaiden screens assassinate our patience originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-swordninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-dragon-swordteam-ninjatecmoThu, 10 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden scan steathily emerges]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/ninja-gaiden-scan-steathily-emerges/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/ninja-gaiden-scan-steathily-emerges/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/ninja-gaiden-scan-steathily-emerges/#commentsFiled under:

Click image to enlarge

The latest issue of Japanese gaming mag Famitsu has a nice two-page spread on Team Ninja's upcoming DS entry in the kill-em-all-bloodfest of a franchise, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. We're not only excited to give this game a whirl because of the already-mentioned amount of killing Ryu will undoubtedly do, but also because the control scheme seems like it could pave the way for more games of this type. At this point, we're fairly convinced that Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword can cure every single problem we have in our life.

Any of you feel the same way?

JoystiqNinja Gaiden scan steathily emerges originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SwordNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSscansTeam-NinjaTecmoWed, 09 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden boxart flips into view, falls flat on backside]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ninja-gaiden-boxart-flips-into-view-falls-flat-on-backside/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ninja-gaiden-boxart-flips-into-view-falls-flat-on-backside/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ninja-gaiden-boxart-flips-into-view-falls-flat-on-backside/#commentsFiled under:


As if the news of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword being delayed until next March wasn't disappointing enough (news that was super-officially confirmed by a Tecmo press release today, by the way), the boxart for the game is ... well, not necessarily bad, but certainly underwhelming. Not ninjatastic. It might just be us, but the whole thing comes across as a bit half-assed, the kind of design a Tecmo work experience lackey might churn out on Photoshop during his lunch break. We really hope that didn't happen, Tecmo.

Here's hoping the game, which we're immensely looking forward to, makes more of an impact than its packaging.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden boxart flips into view, falls flat on backside originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureboxartDragon-SwordNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSrelease-dateTeam-NinjaTecmoThu, 20 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword slashes up your DS in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-slashes-up-your-ds-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-slashes-up-your-ds-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-slashes-up-your-ds-in-march/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You'll be flipping out and killing people on the go this March when Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword -Team Ninja's portable ninja simulator - slashes its way onto the DS. Tecmo announced the March release window today, but failed to give a specific date. So, uh, yeah ...

For more on Dragon Swords, take a peek at our interview with Team Ninja's charming Tomonobu Itagaki.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden: Dragon Sword slashes up your DS in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureBreakingNewsDragon-SwordDSNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSNintendoTeam-NinjaTecmoThu, 20 Dec 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Ninja Gaiden scan shows off cute characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/new-ninja-gaiden-scan-shows-off-cute-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/new-ninja-gaiden-scan-shows-off-cute-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/new-ninja-gaiden-scan-shows-off-cute-characters/#commentsFiled under:


Click image to enlarge

We're fairly certain these smiling people are allies of Ryu's, as we're sure any enemy of a ninja has no ability to smile, often cowering in dark corners and crying themselves to sleep as they think of nothing but their impending doom. That's just life. The life of a ninja's target.

This fresh scan for what is sure to be the definitive ninja experience on the DS, Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword, hits the net from the latest issue of Japanese gaming mag Famitsu. Team Ninja's handheld entry into the Ninja Gaiden franchise is something that you can imagine we're incredibly excited about, as its ambitious control scheme and truckloads of combat are things we can easily get behind.

JoystiqNew Ninja Gaiden scan shows off cute characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Dec 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Getting out to a download station is hard work. First we have to apply for an exit permit from our cruel overlords at Joystiq, then we have to put on gobs and gobs of sun block (SPF 8,273, because of our incredibly pale skin). As if that weren't enough, there are also dangers to navigate in the wild, such as screaming children and the chupacabra. So, as you can see, it's tough work.

But, you can bet we'll be going through it now that word hits of a new demo on the download station block: Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword. Rumored to be included in a download station near you some time ago, it is now confirmed as reality. As Itagaki fans (and Ninja Gaiden junkies), we're compelled to give the game a download. And we aren't doing it because we want to test it out or anything (we know it'll be great) so that we may come to a decision regarding purchasing the game (we know we'll be buying it). We just need it.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGo hit up a download station, get Ninja Gaiden originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Itching to see how well Ninja Gaiden holds up on the Nintendo DS? Anxious fans of the series can take the portable title for a spin by heading to a local retailer. Gay Gamer reports that DS Download Stations are now beaming demos of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. Bringing your DS to a participating retail location should allow you to capture the demo, which controls like a more "extreme" version of Phantom Hourglass.

We're happy that Nintendo continues to make use of retail-based DS Download Stations, but we're still anxiously awaiting the release of the Wii's "Everybody's Nintendo" channel, which will allow Wii owners to beam demos to their DS via their Wii, from the comfort of their own homes. Here's hoping that following the release of the "Check Mii Out" channel, DS downloads are just around the corner.

Some shaky cam footage of the Dragon Sword demo in action after the break.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden demo at DS Download Stations, but not in our homes

JoystiqNinja Gaiden demo at DS Download Stations, but not in our homes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It should come as no surprise to all of you out there in Reader Land that we're already sold on Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. We're going to pick it up the second it hits retail shelves, no doubt about it. That's why we can appreciate this video, as poorly filmed as it is. Because it is nothing but a large chunk of gameplay, we find ourselves drooling over the exhibited crispness of the game's controls and promise of massive amounts of combat.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqBlurry, shaky cam footage of Dragon Sword still gets us excited originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tomonobu Itagaki has been a busy man, ever since he revealed his fan favorite franchise Ninja Gaiden would be seeing an iteration on the DS in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword and a sequel on the Xbox 360. He's conducted lots of interviews about the DS game since then, answering the same question as to why he chose the DS over the PSP over and over again. Aside from the almost God-like status he enjoys in the gaming industry, he's quite the unlucky guy.

Aside from the quote where he says the game is 50% complete, he also comments on one of our concerns about the handheld title: the elaborate and breathtaking environments. Team Ninja is striving to meet those expectations on the portable platform. Not only that, but the handheld's lead programmer was almost single-handedly responsible for the fighting engine in both Dead or Alive 4 and the first Ninja Gaiden.

JoystiqItagaki says Dragon Sword is halfway complete originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Oct 2007 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The non-disclosure agreements have just expired on what was shown at last week's Nintendo of America Media Summit; naturally, within seconds the Internet has become flooded with information about new games. Rather than post each trailer individually, we've decided to embed the newest DS trailers from this event into one roundup post-- because we're Bloggin' Cowboys!

Above, obviously, is a new trailer for Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. Check after the break for brand new material on Mario Party DS, Final Fantasy XII Revenant Wings, EA Playground, Professor Layton, and Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker.

Continue reading New DS trailer blowout!

JoystiqNew DS trailer blowout! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 15:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DQMDQMJDragon-Quest-Monstersdragon-quest-monsters-jokerDragon-Swordea-playgroundeaplaygroundffxiiJRPGlaytonmario-party-dsmariopartyNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordRPGSquare-EnixTOSEMon, 15 Oct 2007 15:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden's REAL Ultimate Scanned Power!!!!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/ninja-gaidens-real-ultimate-scanned-power/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/ninja-gaidens-real-ultimate-scanned-power/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/ninja-gaidens-real-ultimate-scanned-power/#commentsFiled under:

Why, hello there, Ryu Hayabusa. It's been a while since we've seen you outside of the same old recycled screens. We were starting to worry, but here you are again, looking very, uh ... ninja-ish. And awesome. Did we mention that? Our favorite ninja hero was featured in the latest (Chinese?) Famitsu and we were treated to a beautiful two-page spread that reminded us why we must get our hands on this title as soon as possible. But it's not just the look -- it's everything, particularly the creative, no-frills approach Team Ninja is taking with the handheld installment. While we dream of action and adventure, trip gaily past the break and check out the scans for yourself.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden's REAL Ultimate Scanned Power!!!!

JoystiqNinja Gaiden's REAL Ultimate Scanned Power!!!! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Itagaki was kind enough to take some time out of his busy schedule of making great games and shopping for leather to speak with GameTrailers about Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. Of course, they grilled him on just why he would go with the DS instead of the PSP (how many times must this man answer this question?!), but kept the piece interesting by sprinkling gameplay footage throughout the videos.

Hit up the second part of the video interview past the post break.

Continue reading Itagaki speaks his mind in this two-part video interview

JoystiqItagaki speaks his mind in this two-part video interview originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Oct 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Our cruel overlords at Joystiq recently got to sit down with gaming icon Tomonobu Itagaki (we hope they brought him gifts of leather and booze). We imagine it only took him mere minutes to sexually assault the interviewing blogger (hawt!), before calmly putting his clothes back on, sitting down calmly and lighting up a smoke.

Following that horrible piece of mental imagery, Itagaki and Joystiq's confrontation at the offices of Team Ninja were nothing of the sort. In fact, it was quite casual and professional ... er, as professional as one can be during an interview with one of the most outspoken and blunt members of the gaming industry. And, Itagaki did not fail to be just that while conducting this interview.

The focus of the interview mainly revolved around his project for the DS, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. He speaks about why multiplayer wasn't implemented, the pros and cons of a stylus-driven control scheme and even the possibility of bringing other Team Ninja titles to the platform.

JoystiqItagaki sits down for a chat with Joystiq originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's not too long into our interview with Tomonobu Itagaki before he issues us with an impromptu challenge. "If there's a game out there that is more beautiful, more interactive, faster and has better action than this game, please let me know." The Team Ninja boss has a train of thought that truly exemplifies the bluntest characteristics of that phrase. It's an unstoppable machine barreling down a track without diversion and without apologies -- because it's a train.

We conducted (oh dear) an interview with the outspoken developer at the Team Ninja offices shortly after the Tokyo Game Show, focusing on the aforementioned title, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. After the break, you'll find Itagaki's concise thoughts on Dragon Sequels, dual-screen slashing, how the competition stacks up and why multiplayer Ninja Gaiden might just piss you off.

Continue reading Joystiq interviews Team Ninja's Tomonobu Itagaki

JoystiqJoystiq interviews Team Ninja's Tomonobu Itagaki originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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While Itagaki has spoken about his feelings regarding the PSP and DS in the past, he has gone all out in his latest interview with Gamasutra. See, if he was just going to make a game on the PSP, he could've just made a PS2 game instead. No, to him, the user input is integral in creating a unique and lasting experience.

Enter the DS, where the stylus-driven combat of Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword is exactly what Itagaki was referring to. While the graphics might not be up to par for those who've enjoyed his games of late, Itagaki claims that the controls should more than make up for it.

It's an incredible interview, one that you should read immediately.

JoystiqItagaki: DS is a chance to do something totally original originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GayGamer's Fruit Brute just posted a picture of the styli he picked up in Tokyo while in town for TGS. Of special interest is the promotional Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword stylus, which he received at a Tecmo party. It's a little sword! With a scabbard and everything.

Sure, poking at the touch screen with a plastic finger is okay, but the idea that we could advance through Elite Beat Agents by repeatedly stabbing and slicing at the title characters is disturbingly irresistible. Wait, that came out wrong. We can, and quite frequently do, resist the urge to stab fictional characters.

JoystiqTGS07: The Ninja Gaiden stylus lets you murder your DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Sep 2007 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As an Itagaki junkie (something we admit we are, as well), Joystiq's Ludwig Kietzmann could barely contain himself as he approached the booth seen above for Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword. At least, that's what we imagine given the fact that we are not there with him. Actually, we think about the little guy a lot. Maybe even too much.

But, onto the game! As he played it, he found that the stylus-driven controls of the game worked surprisingly well (our greatest fear has dissolved into the ether). The ease-of-use comes with a price, however. Ryu's move list has been incredibly simplified, as his graceful and wide range of attacks found in his latest console offerings is without representation here.

We're glad to report that he found nothing else of conflict with the title.

JoystiqTGS07: Joystiq goes hands-on with Dragon Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 23:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword makes for quite the unusual spun-off spokesperson for Team Ninja's flip-out-and-kill-people sim. It exuberantly gushes about frenetic action and superhuman agility, but when you aren't looking, it lounges about in the kitchen sipping herbal tea and playing Sudoku. It's simultaneously an excellent and poor example of what Ninja Gaiden stands for, a strange mixture brought about by placing a decidedly hard-edged experience on a system widely known for its casual lures.

For the most part, it seems to work surprisingly well. Constructing a fast-paced action game entirely upon stylus strokes might lead you to think that victory hinges on furiously scratching your screen, but Dragon Sword's inputs are distinct and responsive enough to render battle a calm and intuitive affair. Well, as calm as you can be when being assailed by clawed freaks, disgruntled dragons and, in one instance, a steady stream of menacing boulders.

Continue reading TGS hands-on: Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword

JoystiqTGS hands-on: Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Well, we're assuming they're boss characters based on how large they are and the descriptions for fighting them. Still, as we've said before, anything we can get our grubby little hands on involving Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword will not only make our day, but make our week. Seriously, we can't wait to get our hands on this game!

Head past the break for the scans.

Continue reading Dragon Sword scans show off boss fights, art

JoystiqDragon Sword scans show off boss fights, art originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IGN has uploaded an impressive direct-feed video of Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword. And, seriously, we need this game. It looks like it could provide us with some top-notch action on our handheld of choice. We won't waste any more time describing just how awesome this footage is (beautiful, amazing, wonderful) and will instead point you past the post break for the goods.

Continue reading Ryu Hayabusa demands a few minutes of your time

JoystiqRyu Hayabusa demands a few minutes of your time originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Whether this is intentional or not, Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword is bridging the classic NES Ninja Gaiden games with the newer Xbox/PS3 game. Not necessarily in terms of gameplay, as, except for the stylus control, this looks to play a lot like the Xbox game, but rather, in presentation.

The NES Ninja Gaiden got noticed in 1989 in part because of its brilliant anime-style cutscenes. Dragon Sword relies on the same kind of device to tell its story, using startlingly well-drawn comic panels to tell the epic story of whatever the excuse is this time for Ryu Hayabusa to slash at people and monsters with a big sword. It was probably a space-saving decision to use still images to replace full-motion video, and, judging by the results, it was a good one.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden returns to the series' roots with awesome interstitials originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's no secret that we love Tomonobu Itagaki. Just about every game he has been a part of creating has been excellent in our eyes. So, every time he speaks, we listen. That's just the way it goes. And his latest interview, with big poppa site Joystiq, is no exception.

Itagaki speaks about Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword and the choice to bring it to the DS. Apparently, he didn't do it because the DS sells like 24K gold hotcakes or because he believes it to be a superior system to the PSP (hint: he does), but because of his children. Yup, his kids wanted a game on the DS, so he obliged.

The remainder of the interview focuses on his other projects at the moment, which are for other platforms, but we suggest you read it anyway.

JoystiqItagaki speaks with Joystiq originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There may be brutally difficult action in the future for the Wii. Joystiq's Kevin Kelly recently interviewed Team Ninja's outspoken leader, Tomonobu Itagaki about his recent games and future plans. Kelly asked about the possibility of a Wii game now that Team Ninja's got a DS game in the works, and Itagaki revealed that his decision to make Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword was based on input from an exclusive focus group: his own children.

"We're doing a lot of research, that's about all I can say right now. Although, to add on that note, my kids have been saying they want a game for the Wii. To tell you the truth, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, that's because my kids were asking for one of my titles to be on the DS."

We already know that Itagaki's been thinking about Wii games, as has Ninja Gaiden Sigma's Yusuke Hayashi, so this is just further reinforcement of the possibility. Itagaki's kids must have some skillz if Ninja Gaiden games are being designed for them. The good news is that, if Team Ninja is designing what appears to be a real action game in response to these kids, there's a good chance that the Wii game will be similarly hardcore.

JoystiqItagaki's kids want a Wii game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We caught up with Tomonobu Itagaki at the recent Championship Gaming Series North American World Series Final (try printing that on a hat) in Manhattan Beach recently, and we asked him a few questions. Although he'd had a few beers, we didn't get him to pin down a date or a console for Ninja Gaiden 2, curse you weak American beer!

Yes, he was wearing his patent black leather jacket and sunglasses, and no he didn't take them off. Even when it got dark. They might be permanently welded to his face at this point. While he's known for being outspoken and critical to the extreme (especially if your game has the word Tekken in the title), when we asked him about Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, he actually handed over his DS to us and let us play through an early build of the game, more on that soon.

Continue reading Joystiq interview: DOA creator Tomonobu Itagaki, "Tekken sucks"

JoystiqJoystiq interview: DOA creator Tomonobu Itagaki, "Tekken sucks" originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've seen a lot on Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword, from screenshots to helpful tips on how to control the action, but one burning question remained: how is it? Is it as awesome as a game from Team Ninja should be? Game Daily offered a breakdown of all the elements, and it really seems like this one is coming together in what promises to be an explosive experience on the DS.

The folks at Game Daily had only good things to say about the forthcoming title, from the smooth graphics to the controls, and even down to the puzzle elements. It seems this handheld Ninja Gaiden is set to use every ounce of the DS to its advantage. Sign us up for two copies, please.

Considering the game is slated for release this year, we hope someone gets their hands on it soon for a more in-depth look, but for now, we'll have to be happy with what we've got.

JoystiqAll the Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword details you need (for now) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SwordNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSTeam-NinjaTecmoMon, 30 Jul 2007 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[An updated peek at Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/an-updated-peek-at-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/an-updated-peek-at-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/an-updated-peek-at-ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword/#commentsFiled under:

Oh, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, how we wish you were out already. Like, yesterday. And then delivered to our doorstep wrapped in pretty pink bows, along with an IV filled with espresso, ready to power us through long gaming sessions. Or maybe that's just our own twisted personal fantasy. What can we say -- we're ready for some handheld Ninja Gaiden action, and this version is just as it should be: no frills, all thrills. For now, we'll just have to settle for sweet new screenshots. Check 'em out in the gallery!

JoystiqAn updated peek at Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2007 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SwordgalleryNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSscreenshotTeam-NinjaTecmoMon, 16 Jul 2007 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Itagaki speaks, we listen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/itagaki-speaks-we-listen/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/itagaki-speaks-we-listen/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/itagaki-speaks-we-listen/#commentsFiled under: ,

Whether it's dealing with sexual harassment lawsuits or drinking on the job, Itagaki is always a man that is interesting to hear from. This latest video interview is no different, as Itagaki explains how Hayabusa in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword is the fastest Hayabusa to date, allowing the player to move him around the game environments quickly using the stylus and touch-screen.

Catch the video after the post break.

Continue reading Itagaki speaks, we listen

JoystiqItagaki speaks, we listen originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventureDragon-SworddsliteitagakiliteNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Dragon-SwordNinja-Gaiden-DSTeam-NinjaTecmoTue, 05 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword: no multiplayer, no mic gimmicks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-no-multiplayer-no-mic-gimmicks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-no-multiplayer-no-mic-gimmicks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/ninja-gaiden-dragon-sword-no-multiplayer-no-mic-gimmicks/#commentsFiled under:

Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword sounds cool; and by cool we mean totally sweet. Game Informer got a chance to play an early version, and they had a great time slashing ninjas and dragon bosses with cool stylus moves, and smashing the face buttons to block.

Players will not be able to flip out and kill their friends in-game, as there will be no multiplayer functionality. Team Ninja's larger-than-life Tomonobu Itagaki cited potential issues with "speed and precision on the controls and trying to get it to work" as reasons they didn't pursue online play. On a much happier note, players will not be forced to embarrass themselves in public by blowing on their game systems. Team Ninja considered a microphone gimmick involving yelling, but decided there would be enough going on. That's fine. We're officially tired of the microphone gimmick.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Dragon Sword: no multiplayer, no mic gimmicks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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