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[See Ninja Gaiden 3's new DLC weapons in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/see-ninja-gaiden-3s-new-dlc-weapons-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/see-ninja-gaiden-3s-new-dlc-weapons-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/see-ninja-gaiden-3s-new-dlc-weapons-in-action/#comments Ryu Hayabusa could probably kill demons with a toothbrush if he wanted. If any of the new weapons in this DLC pack are indeed toothbrushes, we worry about those teeth.

Continue reading See Ninja Gaiden 3's new DLC weapons in action

JoystiqSee Ninja Gaiden 3's new DLC weapons in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcgalleryimagesmicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3playstationps3ryu-hayabusateam-ninjatecmo-koeitrailerweaponsxboxTue, 20 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus screens have a delicate touch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/ninja-gaiden-sigma-plus-screens-have-a-delicate-touch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/ninja-gaiden-sigma-plus-screens-have-a-delicate-touch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/ninja-gaiden-sigma-plus-screens-have-a-delicate-touch/#comments When Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus launches alongside the PlayStation Vita late next month, its trademark difficulty level will likely be responsible for hundred of broken handhelds. We recommend preparing yourself ahead of time by pantomime touching these screenshots and studying the Ninpo magic within.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus screens have a delicate touch

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma Plus screens have a delicate touch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-plusplaystationplaystation-vitateam-ninjatecmovitaSun, 22 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 3's 'Hero Mode' allows more players to experience the story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ninja-gaiden-3s-hero-mode-allows-more-players-to-experience-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ninja-gaiden-3s-hero-mode-allows-more-players-to-experience-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ninja-gaiden-3s-hero-mode-allows-more-players-to-experience-t/#comments Ninja Gaiden 3 is Team Ninja's first full Gaiden game post-Itagaki, and it looks like things are progressing a little differently. For one thing, it's got a sort of easy mode called "Hero Mode," which adds automatic dodging and blocking of most normal attacks, to which I can imagine Itagaki's head shaking, making waves in a cloud of cigarette smoke.

I asked director Fumihiko Yasuda (who also did design work on Sigma 2) about why such a ... friendly mode would appear in such a typically unfriendly series.

"We really wanted to flesh out the story this time around," Yasuda said, "so we wanted people to enjoy that story and get used to the game as it is. In the past the games were really hardcore and we couldn't get players to stay with us and complete the game." Team Ninja is "redefining" Hayabusa's image, and wants people to experience that whole story without dying over and over again or throwing the game into the disposal in frustration.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden 3's 'Hero Mode' allows more players to experience the story

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 3's 'Hero Mode' allows more players to experience the story originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fumihiko-yasudamicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3playstationps3team-ninjatecmo-koeitgs-2011xboxyosuke-hayashiTue, 20 Sep 2011 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Hayashi: Ninja Gaiden 3's dismemberment-free gameplay adds meaning to the violence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/18/hayashi-ninja-gaiden-3s-dismemberment-free-gameplay-adds-meani/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/18/hayashi-ninja-gaiden-3s-dismemberment-free-gameplay-adds-meani/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/18/hayashi-ninja-gaiden-3s-dismemberment-free-gameplay-adds-meani/#comments Ninja Gaiden 3 won't feature the frequent decapitations and other freeform dismemberment of its predecessors. You may think of this as softening the impact of the violence in Team Ninja's famously brutal series, but it's intended to be quite the opposite. In fact, if anything, Team Ninja lead Yosuke Hayashi made it sound even more sadistic.

"For Ninja Gaiden 3," Hayashi told me, "we wanted to focus on the act of cutting someone down, and what it's like to actually kill someone with a sword. Once you start lopping off limbs, your enemy goes from being a living thing that you're killing to just a thing."

And to hammer the point home (or katana the point home, if you prefer) that these are real human beings you're flipping out and killing, he continued. "When you're actually cutting into a person, and you feel them getting scared, and the blood is spraying right on you, you hear their dying breaths in your ear -- that's the kind of visceral violence we're going for in Ninja Gaiden 3." In the demo level I played, by the way, the enemy soldiers start pleading for their lives as soon as you begin attacking them.

At this point you might think, as I did, that you're going to start feeling guilty about cutting into all these bodies. That's ... kind of the idea. "Ryu Hayabusa is a dark hero," Hayashi explained. "If people want to take the easy way out or a cleaner way out -- not killing people -- that's not what the story is about and what Ryu Hayabusa is about. To be a dark hero, you have to do bad things in order to do good."

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden 3 (Tokyo Game Show 2011)

JoystiqHayashi: Ninja Gaiden 3's dismemberment-free gameplay adds meaning to the violence originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3playstationps3team-ninjatecmo-koeitgs-2011xboxyosuke-hayashiSun, 18 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Ninja Gaiden 3 screens will cut you in half]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/04/new-ninja-gaiden-3-screens-will-cut-you-in-half/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/04/new-ninja-gaiden-3-screens-will-cut-you-in-half/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/04/new-ninja-gaiden-3-screens-will-cut-you-in-half/#comments The Japanese website for Ninja Gaiden 3 has emerged from the inky blackness of the internet, brandishing a finely honed blade and silently moving through the night, all the while tossing shurikens and newly forged screenshots into our cerebral cortexes.

Continue reading New Ninja Gaiden 3 screens will cut you in half

JoystiqNew Ninja Gaiden 3 screens will cut you in half originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3playstationps3screenshotsteam-ninjatecmoxboxSun, 04 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ninja Gaiden 3 loses the store, may add Move support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/rumor-ninja-gaiden-3-loses-the-store-may-add-move-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/rumor-ninja-gaiden-3-loses-the-store-may-add-move-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/rumor-ninja-gaiden-3-loses-the-store-may-add-move-support/#comments Reports are coming in that the latest issue of PlayStation: The Official Magazine is full of new info about Ninja Gaiden 3. NeoGAFfer RatedRSuperstar summarized the article, noting a few salient points about the Team Ninja sequel.

Reportedly, the difficulty level "won't be toned down for casual gamers," which means Team Ninja is making the game "more accessible" in a different way. In addition, it packs competitive and cooperative multiplayer, with at least one mode supporting up to eight players. There's also a possibility of Move support. The weapons store is gone, in favor of weapons that "upgrade over time."

According to RatedRSuperstar, "Blood is back" as well. Having seen the purported scans, that's an understatement. Imagine a ninja covered in melted Twizzlers.

[Thanks, Andreas!]

JoystiqRumor: Ninja Gaiden 3 loses the store, may add Move support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3playstationplaystation-the-official-magazineps3team-ninjatecmotecmo-koeixboxWed, 25 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Utter madman beats Ninja Gaiden NES using DDR pad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/utter-madman-beats-ninja-gaiden-nes-using-ddr-pad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/utter-madman-beats-ninja-gaiden-nes-using-ddr-pad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/utter-madman-beats-ninja-gaiden-nes-using-ddr-pad/#comments Known deft-footed retro game enthusiast Nick Hagman is an expert at conquering classic titles using an unorthodox peripheral: A Dance Dance Revolution pad. However, his latest conquest is by far his life's greatest achievement: the ever-difficult NES gem Ninja Gaiden; as seen in this video.

Continue reading Utter madman beats Ninja Gaiden NES using DDR pad

JoystiqUtter madman beats Ninja Gaiden NES using DDR pad originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dance-padddrnesnick-hagmanninja-gaidennintendowiiThu, 03 Mar 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 3 announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/ninja-gaiden-3-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/ninja-gaiden-3-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/ninja-gaiden-3-announced/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tecmo Koei revealed Ninja Gaiden 3 during a behind-closed door event today (in conjunction with TGS), reports VideoGamer.com. The announcement was accompanied by a teaser image showing blood-soaked franchise protagonist Ryu Hayabusa removing his mask.

According to VideoGamer, the image represents themes that will be explored in the new sequel: both the "human side" of Ryu and a "more violent and bloody experience" (if you can believe it). Neither platforms nor further release information was given.

Shortly before E3 last year, Team Ninja boss Yosuke Hayashi talked up his studio's commitment to furthering the Ninja Gaiden series. Today's reveal is the first hard evidence of Ninja Gaiden 3 since that time.

Update: GamePro confirms the reveal went down at a private event hosted by Team Ninja, and adds that Ninja Gaiden 3 "is so early in development, the developer only showed journalists a piece of concept art" (above; see a bigger version after the break).

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden 3 announced

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 3 announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3team-ninjatecmo-koeitgs-2010Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden's ninja guy joining Super Mario Crossover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/ninja-gaidens-ninja-guy-joining-super-mario-crossover/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/ninja-gaidens-ninja-guy-joining-super-mario-crossover/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/ninja-gaidens-ninja-guy-joining-super-mario-crossover/#comments Super Mario Crossover was already a miracle, faithfully dropping protagonists from Contra, Mega Man, Castlevania, Zelda and Metroid into Super Mario Bros. A teaser trailer (that's right, a trailer for a Flash game!) after the break heralds the arrival of another NES-era champion: the wall-climbing, statue-hunting ninja in the sleeveless uniform, Ninja Gaiden's Ryu Hayabusa. Ryu brings his wall-climbing ability from his NES games, as well as the shuriken and boomerang-style Windmill Shuriken weapons.

Now we'll get to see how powerful Ryu can be in a game free of heat-seeking birds! Or, we'll get to see that whenever creator Jay Pavlina actually makes the new version of Crossover available.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden's ninja guy joining Super Mario Crossover

JoystiqNinja Gaiden's ninja guy joining Super Mario Crossover originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSflashjay-pavlinaninja-gaidenNintendoretroryu-hayabusasuper-mario-crossoverWiiWed, 26 May 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo sees 'opportunity' in expanding audience, pursuing women]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/tecmo-sees-opportunity-in-expanding-audience-pursuing-women/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/tecmo-sees-opportunity-in-expanding-audience-pursuing-women/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/tecmo-sees-opportunity-in-expanding-audience-pursuing-women/#comments Speaking to Edge, Tecmo's Quantum Theory development team had a few things to say about the Japanese game market, expanding its audience and, of course, Quantum Theory. According to producer Yasuo Egawa, the Japanese game market is shrinking, though the global gaming audience is expanding. "We've been trying to target customers who haven't bought Tecmo games before," says Egawa, "specifically women." Given Tecmo's offerings over the last few years, it's hard not to find that just a little hilarious.

Regarding Quantum Theory itself, the company sees the game as its "third pillar" alongside Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive. Character designer Hiroyuki Yazaki notes that Quantum Theory is a departure from other shooters thanks to its AI-controlled female sidekick, Filena. Yazaki states that most shooters are "full of men; big, sweaty men," which lead Tecmo to design a "softer character" for the game. Yazaki adds, "We're Tecmo - we're good at female characters!" Again, just a little hilarious.

JoystiqTecmo sees 'opportunity' in expanding audience, pursuing women originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alivejapankoei-tecmoMicrosoftninja-gaidenquantum-theorytecmoXbox-360Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST<![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[More Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce media than you can shake a Dragon Sword at]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/more-dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-media-than-you-can-shake-a-dra/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/more-dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-media-than-you-can-shake-a-dra/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/more-dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-media-than-you-can-shake-a-dra/#commentsIf you only play games with Ryu Hayabusa in them, then Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce is likely to be your first experience with Koei's historical-ish brawler franchise. If you only play games with the ancient Chinese ruler Fu Xi in them, however, you're likely to be much better versed in the series. In either case, there's a Strikeforce for you: as reported, Fu Xi (and other characters from the Warriors Orochi series) appear in the Xbox 360 version, and Ryu in the PS3 version, both with exclusive missions that grant you the use of their "signature weapon" when completed.

New galleries give you a look at Fu Xi and the extra-beefy crossover ninja. And a new trailer (above) does what it can to get you pumped about Strikeforce, the Dynasty Warriors game with not only characters from other franchises, but giant tigers in it!

Gallery: Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce (Fu Xi)


Gallery: Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce (Ryu)

JoystiqMore Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce media than you can shake a Dragon Sword at originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty-warriorsdynasty-warriors-strikeforcekoeiMicrosoftninja-gaidenwarriors-orochiXbox-360Thu, 07 Jan 2010 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[VC in Brief: Super Smash Bros. (N64) and Ninja Gaiden (Arcade)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/vc-in-brief-super-smash-bros-n64-and-ninja-gaiden-arcade/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/vc-in-brief-super-smash-bros-n64-and-ninja-gaiden-arcade/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/vc-in-brief-super-smash-bros-n64-and-ninja-gaiden-arcade/#commentsWhat a day for Virtual Console fans. For one, we've got the ultra-aggressive coin-op classic, Ninja Gaiden, to check out. Then, on top of that, the game that spawned one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises: Super Smash Bros. for the N64. If that doesn't put a smile on your face, then you just may be one of the most depressed people on Earth. We suggest consulting a doctor.
  • Super Smash Bros. (N64, 1-4 players, 1,000 Wii Points)
  • Ninja Gaiden (Arcade, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points)
Every week, we like to check out what's new on the Virtual Console. We offer these videos as a sort of taste to help you decide whether or not you would want the game in question. We also toss in our own two cents because we're pushy jerks like that.

JoystiqVC in Brief: Super Smash Bros. (N64) and Ninja Gaiden (Arcade) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcaden64ninja-gaidensuper-smash-brosvc-arcadevc-in-briefvirtual-consoleMon, 21 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Super Smash Bros., Ninja Gaiden, Dragon's Lair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/nintendoware-weekly-super-smash-bros-ninja-gaiden-dragons-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/nintendoware-weekly-super-smash-bros-ninja-gaiden-dragons-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/nintendoware-weekly-super-smash-bros-ninja-gaiden-dragons-l/#commentsNintendo announced its 500th downloadable Wii game today, reserving the honor for Super Smash Bros. Or, we suppose, for any of the other Virtual Console or WiiWare games released today. But Nintendo says it's Super Smash Bros., and that certainly seems like a more special way to celebrate a milestone than, say, the arcade version of Ninja Gaiden. See all the WiiWare, Virtual Console, and DSiWare releases after the break.

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Super Smash Bros., Ninja Gaiden, Dragon's Lair

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Super Smash Bros., Ninja Gaiden, Dragon's Lair originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>530-eco-shooterdragons-lairDSdsiwarehappy-holidays-christmashigh-stakes-texas-hold-emhot-and-coldmynotebookninja-gaidenNintendonintendoware-weeklypallurikiosuper-smash-brostv-show-king-2unovirtual-consoleWiiwiiwareMon, 21 Dec 2009 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[European Nintendo downloads: My Zoo, Ninja Gaiden, Rock N' Roll Climber]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/european-nintendo-downloads-my-zoo-ninja-gaiden-rock-n-roll/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/european-nintendo-downloads-my-zoo-ninja-gaiden-rock-n-roll/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/european-nintendo-downloads-my-zoo-ninja-gaiden-rock-n-roll/#commentsToday, on the European Wii Shop, Hudson follows up its surprisingly successful My Aquarium with more animals to take care of. Also on WiiWare, Nintendo's still-weird Balance Board-equipped Rock N' Roll Climber, whose rock-climbing/air-guitar concept, and whose non-standard apostrophe use we'll never get used to.

The big draw for us is the arcade brawler version of Ninja Gaiden, which seems fresh to us after 20 years of dodging eagles in the NES game.
  • My Zoo (WiiWare, 1 player, 500 Wii Points)
  • Rock N' Roll Climber (WiiWare, 1 player, 800 Wii Points)
  • Ninja Gaiden (Arcade, 1 player, 800 Wii Points)
  • A Little Bit Of .... Nintendo Touch Golf (DSiWare, 800 DSi Points)

JoystiqEuropean Nintendo downloads: My Zoo, Ninja Gaiden, Rock N' Roll Climber originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsiwareeuropefridaymy-zooninja-gaidenrock-and-roll-climbertouch-golfvirtual-consolewiiwareFri, 13 Nov 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden crosses over into ZEN Pinball]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/ninja-gaiden-crosses-over-into-zen-pinball/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/ninja-gaiden-crosses-over-into-zen-pinball/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/ninja-gaiden-crosses-over-into-zen-pinball/#commentsWe're not sure how the ZEN Pinball team does it, but they've managed to create another crossover DLC table for the popular PSN pinball game. The follow-up to the Street Fighter table pays tribute to Team Ninja's Ninja Gaiden series. The official details will be revealed on the PlayStation.Blog soon, but we're pretty sure it'll be similar to the last DLC offering.

[Thanks, HeavyToka!]

JoystiqNinja Gaiden crosses over into ZEN Pinball originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcninja-gaidenpinballpsnzen-pinballzen-studiosMon, 05 Oct 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden characters to appear in Dynasty Warriors, vice versa]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/ninja-gaiden-characters-to-appear-in-dynasty-warriors-vice-vers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/ninja-gaiden-characters-to-appear-in-dynasty-warriors-vice-vers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/ninja-gaiden-characters-to-appear-in-dynasty-warriors-vice-vers/#comments Merged game companies rarely fuse their franchises together, but when the two partnered entities' action-genre focus overlaps as much as Koei and Tecmo's do, inter-brand cameos come naturally. That's why we weren't shocked to hear that Ninja Gaiden's Ryu Hayabusa and Warriors Orochi's Nu Wa would make appearances in the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, respectively, of Dynasty Warriors Multi Raid. In addition, Multi Raiid's Sun Shang Xiang and Zhao Yun will appear as costumes in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.

At this rate, we expect the many, many ninjas from Koei and Tecmo's respective properties will soon be thrown into a "ninja pool," which players of any their titles will be able to choose from. For the record, we're strong advocates for this ninja unionization. Fairer wages for our shiruken-slinging brethren!

JoystiqNinja Gaiden characters to appear in Dynasty Warriors, vice versa originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty-warriorsdynasty-warriors-multi-raidkoeikoei-tecmoMicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2ninjasnu-waryu-hayabusasynergytecmowarriors-orochiXbox-360Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:57:00 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 demo hitting US PSN on Sept. 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-hitting-us-psn-on-sept-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-hitting-us-psn-on-sept-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-hitting-us-psn-on-sept-24/#comments
We've just received word from Tecmo that Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2's demo will be gracing the US PSN one week after Japan gets it on September 24. Unfortunately, Tecmo wouldn't offer anything on what the demo would entail; the company did not confirm any co-op for the demo, let alone which part of the game it would take place in. But hey, it's a free demo and we certainly aren't complaining -- mostly because we don't want to be on that Ryu cat's bad side.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo hitting US PSN on Sept. 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2psnteam-ninjatecmoWed, 16 Sep 2009 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[You'll shake your head at this Ninja Gaiden ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/youll-shake-your-head-at-this-ninja-gaiden-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/youll-shake-your-head-at-this-ninja-gaiden-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/youll-shake-your-head-at-this-ninja-gaiden-ad/#comments Tecmo's creative team has certainly been churning out memorable ads for the upcoming PS3 release of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. The videos have shifted focus from sex to violence to ... more sex. The latest ad promotes the unique SIXAXIS motion controls exclusive to the PS3 version. Like the stars of this commercial, we're certain you'll be shaking your head -- we'll leave it up to you whether it's in approval or disapproval.

[Thanks, Sean!]

Continue reading You'll shake your head at this Ninja Gaiden ad

JoystiqYou'll shake your head at this Ninja Gaiden ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 05:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adboobsbreastscommercialjapanninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2sixaxistecmoWed, 16 Sep 2009 05:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo in Japan September 17, news on other regions coming 'very soon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/tecmo-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-in-japan-september-17-news-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/tecmo-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-in-japan-september-17-news-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/tecmo-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-in-japan-september-17-news-on/#comments Japanese news site Andriasang reported today that those anxious to wet their sword (or gigantic scythe) with demon blood in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 would get a chance through a demo on September 17. We wanted to find out when other regions would get the demo, as well as what would actually be in the demo (we're crossing our fingers for some booby bouncing co-op gameplay), so we hit up Tecmo.

A Tecmo representative said that, while the company plans to release a demo "very soon in the US, Europe and Japan," there's no guarantee the demo will hit regions outside Japan on September 17. Tecmo did say that we "should have news very, very soon." So, mark very, very soon on your calendars, kids. As for content, Tecmo remained tight-lipped.

While you wait on that demo, you can pass the time ogling the new screens in our gallery below:

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 (9/11/09)

JoystiqTecmo: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo in Japan September 17, news on other regions coming 'very soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 11 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 ad takes a stab at liberty]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-ad-takes-a-stab-at-liberty/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-ad-takes-a-stab-at-liberty/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-ad-takes-a-stab-at-liberty/#comments And by liberty, we mean the Statue of Liberty. This Japanese ad for Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 finally focuses less on breasts and more on what the series is iconic for: ninja action. A mysterious ninja (with absolutely filthy feet!) scampers around town, until he gets to his surprising goal. It's funny, yes, but the ending will undoubtedly make the mainstream media uncomfortable. "Video games teach kids to be terrorists" on CNN? "New PS3 game hates America" on FOX News? We can totally see it happening.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 ad takes a stab at liberty originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialjapanninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2statue-of-libertyWed, 09 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 has the breast use of SIXAXIS ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-has-the-breast-use-of-sixaxis-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-has-the-breast-use-of-sixaxis-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-has-the-breast-use-of-sixaxis-ever/#comments Ever since the fall of Lair, Sony has been reluctant to tout the SIXAXIS functionality of the PS3 wireless controller. It's no longer a marketing bullet point, and even if developers offer support for motion control, it's usually turn off as a default. (Most recently, Batman: Arkham Asylum let players use SIXAXIS to control Batman's glide.)

While other developers ignore the SIXAXIS, Team Ninja isn't afraid to highlight its unique implementation of motion controls. In the first Ninja Gaiden Sigma game, players were able to cast magic by shaking the controller violently. This time around, the shaking has an entirely different (but equally important!) effect. You probably should have figured it out from the headline and IGN's cleverly constructed image. If not, there's a video after the break.

[Thanks, Sean!]

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 has the breast use of SIXAXIS ever

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 has the breast use of SIXAXIS ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boobsbreastjiggleninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2shakesixaxisWed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB reveals Ninja Gaiden, Rygar, Solomon's Key on Virtual Console Arcade]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/esrb-reveals-ninja-gaiden-rygar-solomons-key-on-virtual-conso/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/esrb-reveals-ninja-gaiden-rygar-solomons-key-on-virtual-conso/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/esrb-reveals-ninja-gaiden-rygar-solomons-key-on-virtual-conso/#commentsIf you, like us, were jealous of the Japanese release of the arcade Ninja Gaiden game on Virtual Console, you can dry your ninja eyes (just pull up the front of the ninja mask and dab with that). The ESRB reveals that Tecmo is planning a North American release of the arcade brawler.

Tecmo isn't stopping with Gaiden, either: further ESRB listings have appeared for arcade versions of both Rygar and Solomon's Key (which will be released in Japan next week). Oddly, the company's other upcoming Japanese VC release, Bomb Jack, is absent from the ESRB list.

At the very least, we can all be happy that these are video games that someone wants to release on the Virtual Console.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqESRB reveals Ninja Gaiden, Rygar, Solomon's Key on Virtual Console Arcade originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeninja-gaidenrygarsolomons-keytecmovirtual-consoleFri, 14 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 limited edition is HMV exclusive in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-limited-edition-is-hmv-exclusive-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-limited-edition-is-hmv-exclusive-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-limited-edition-is-hmv-exclusive-in-europe/#commentsThe announcement of the European version of the Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 limited edition, releasing on October 2, reveals bonuses mostly identical to the North American version -- by which we mean "that one book." The Ninja Gaiden Treasury , as it's called, includes the same strategy guide, comic, and art sections advertised with the American release, though Tecmo Koei Europe offers a bit more detail about it. The comic, for example, is a "prologue comic" designed by Team Ninja. The downloadable costume is also part of the LE.

Europe's version includes one thing the American release doesn't: a complete soundtrack. Other than that, it's identical -- right down to the exclusivity to a single retailer. The Sigma 2 limited edition will only be sold at HMV, for £39.99, though Tecmo's announcement says the RRP is £49.99.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 limited edition is HMV exclusive in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europehmvninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2tecmotecmo-koeitecmo-koei-europeMon, 10 Aug 2009 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[KoTec 'very interested' in motion control for Ninja Gaiden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/kotec-very-interested-in-motion-control-for-ninja-gaiden/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/kotec-very-interested-in-motion-control-for-ninja-gaiden/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/kotec-very-interested-in-motion-control-for-ninja-gaiden/#commentsOne of the highlights of the motion controller demo during Sony's E3 2009 press conference was a swordplay sequence that seemed to handle magnificently. Koei Tecmo must have been paying attention -- in a recent interview with Play Magazine, KoTec's Kenji Matsubara explained the developer is "very interested" in adapting the Ninja Gaiden franchise to work with the new motion sensitive peripheral.

However, Matsubara explained that there are some barriers to clear before said adaptation takes place -- namely, he wants to "know how responsive it is," adding that "if you're swinging your arms around like you're using a sword you will soon be tired." Yeah, no kidding. Had the controller already been usable in one of the next-gen Gaiden titles, the games' infamously difficult Hard mode would cause the world's shoulder dislocation rate to skyrocket.

[Via NowGamer]

JoystiqKoTec 'very interested' in motion control for Ninja Gaiden originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Kenji-Matsubarakoei-tecmokotecmotion-controlninja-gaidenplaystation-motion-controllertecmoFri, 07 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 marketing features wall molestation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/bizarre-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-marketing-features-wall-molestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/bizarre-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-marketing-features-wall-molestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/bizarre-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-marketing-features-wall-molestation/#comments
A recent piece of marketing for Tecmo's Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is catching a lot of attention, because -- well, because it features people groping breasts that are mysteriously jutting out of a wall. No need to beat around the bush, folks. We got a video with people grabbing walljugs after the break. Enjoy.

The plaster mammaries assumedly belong to Sigma 2's Ayane or Momiji -- both are playable in this iteration of the game (the text which appears at the end of the video actually says "a female ninja appears"). Oh, sorry -- did we explain that like we thought it made a lick of sense? We apologize.

Continue reading Bizarre Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 marketing features wall molestation

JoystiqBizarre Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 marketing features wall molestation originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marketingninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoThu, 30 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VC/WiiWare Tuesday: Yet another game called 'Ninja Gaiden']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/vc-wiiware-tuesday-yet-another-game-called-ninja-gaiden/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/vc-wiiware-tuesday-yet-another-game-called-ninja-gaiden/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/vc-wiiware-tuesday-yet-another-game-called-ninja-gaiden/#commentsFor its second Virtual Console Arcade release, Tecmo is offering the first, and perhaps least familiar, game to be called Ninja Gaiden. Originally known as Ninja Ryukenden in Japan (as the series in general is), the arcade game looks similar to the NES version millions of gamers love, but is totally different. Unlike the NES game's fast-paced combat and technical platforming, the original arcade game is more of a brawler. Like Bionic Commando or Strider, Ninja Gaiden became something else entirely in the transition to Nintendo. And now the arcade version is on the same Nintendo platform as the NES game! Magical. The other arcade game is a Namco shooter whose promotional video is more intro than gameplay.

On WiiWare this week, the Okiraku sports/casual game series continues, the JoySound karaoke software arrives in downloadable form, and a game based on Tomy's toy car series is pretty cute.
Virtual Console:
WiiWare:

JoystiqVC/WiiWare Tuesday: Yet another game called 'Ninja Gaiden' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>karaoke-joysound-wiinamconinja-gaidenokiraku-tennispheliostecmotomika-driveTue, 28 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 slices and dices North America this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-slices-and-dices-north-america-this-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-slices-and-dices-north-america-this-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-slices-and-dices-north-america-this-sept/#comments
You read that right, folks. The co-op compatible, new and improved Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 will (Izuna) drop into stores on September 29th. Arriving just in time for the busy holiday rush, this updated version of the 2008 Xbox 360 exclusive features two three extra playable characters, along with a puzzling reduction in violent displays.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 slices and dices North America this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmotecmo-koeiTue, 28 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: See Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 co-op in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/video-see-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-co-op-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/video-see-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-co-op-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/video-see-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-co-op-in-action/#comments Tecmo has dropped some new screens and video highlighting the new co-op feature in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. With Ryu Hayabusa's recent outings having been exclusively solo affairs, the opportunity to play co-op is definitely a welcome one, even if it is reserved only for special challenge stages. The two videos show off both the online and offline co-op. Co-op offers some neat new gameplay twists, like the ability to resurrect a dead partner -- which we're guessing will happen a lot -- and co-op Ninpo magic maneuvers.

It certainly looks like a good deal of fun, though we can't help but notice that player two seems to spend an awful lot of time off screen during the offline co-op video (find it after the break). Looks like online is the best way to go.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 (7/21/09)

Continue reading Video: See Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 co-op in action

JoystiqVideo: See Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 co-op in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koeininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 27 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop getting exclusive Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/gamestop-getting-exclusive-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/gamestop-getting-exclusive-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/gamestop-getting-exclusive-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-edition/#comments GameStop has updated its site with a listing for a limited edition of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 exclusive to the retailer. The product page lists the $69.99 premium release as including an 80-page book divided into three sections: art from the game, a color Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 comic and a strategy guide. There's no mention of special packaging for the edition, which is dated for September 29.

We contacted Tecmo for more info and were told that additional details will be disclosed within the next two weeks. The book sounds alright, but we're hoping for some additional goodies to sweeten the deal.

JoystiqGameStop getting exclusive Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestoplimited-editionninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 10 Jul 2009 18:00:00 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[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[Tecmo/Koei crossover games possible [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/tecmo-koei-crossover-games-possible/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/tecmo-koei-crossover-games-possible/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/tecmo-koei-crossover-games-possible/#commentsAccording to what Gigazine claims to be scans from the Nikkei Corporate Quarterly (a book that provides snapshots of information about Japanese companies), the new Tecmo Koei Holdings is planning to combine IP in at least one new game.

Andriasang translated the relevant blurb: "New Games: Will release games that combine Tecmo and Koei titles. The aim is to reach fans of both." The identity (or number) of games, and the identity of the titles that Tecmo and Koei plan to merge are unknown, which means we can amuse ourselves briefly by coming up with our own, like Dead or Alive: Xtreme Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Rygar's Ambition, Dynasty Monster Ranchers, Gitaroo-Man Gaiden Sigma, and Mighty Bomb Genghis Khan.

We've checked in with the North American branches of both Koei and Tecmo in an effort to find any additional details about the plan.

[Update: Tecmo declined to comment, indicating that the US office didn't know any more than we did about this.]

JoystiqTecmo/Koei crossover games possible [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alivedynasty-warriorskoeikoei-tecmoninja-gaidentecmotecmo-koei-holdingsThu, 18 Jun 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 trailer is wet and wild]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-trailer-is-wet-and-wild/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-trailer-is-wet-and-wild/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-trailer-is-wet-and-wild/#commentsTecmo once again proves that sex sells through its latest trailer for Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Rachel, the buxom, barely clothed hammer-wielding warrior returns in this trailer, putting evil demons in their place during a rain storm. It's like a Sports Illustrated swimsuit shoot without the beaches and heavy breathing.

Okay, maybe some heavy breathing.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 trailer is wet and wild originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 01 Jun 2009 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shocker: Team Ninja to work on more Ninja Gaiden games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/16/shocker-team-ninja-to-work-on-more-ninja-gaiden-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/16/shocker-team-ninja-to-work-on-more-ninja-gaiden-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/16/shocker-team-ninja-to-work-on-more-ninja-gaiden-games/#comments
For those of you curious whether a game development studio named Team Ninja would continue to create exclusively ninja-based games, you can now rest easy. In a recent interview with Kikizo, Team Ninja's (relatively) new Commander-in-Chief, Yosuke Hayashi, confirmed that Team Ninja would continue to work towards "the future of an outstanding series." Said series being, of course, Monster Rancher. Or, wait, no -- Ninja Gaiden. Yeah, that one.

Hayashi explained the demand for a Ninja Gaiden III had reached a fever pitch, claiming, "what the consumers, the gamers are looking for is going to be the next chapter," and, "that we're in a position of being able to make that call, and to provide pure entertainment that's going to be enjoyed by action gamers and our fans." Hopefully we'll find out more about the series' future when we sit down with Hayashi at E3 in two weeks (and some change).

JoystiqShocker: Team Ninja to work on more Ninja Gaiden games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 May 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Microsoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-3team-ninjatecmoXbox-360yosuke-hayashiSat, 16 May 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VC/WiiWare Tuesday: Phantasy World of Goo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/vc-wiiware-tuesday-phantasy-world-of-goo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/vc-wiiware-tuesday-phantasy-world-of-goo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/vc-wiiware-tuesday-phantasy-world-of-goo/#commentsToday would be an incredible day on the Japanese Wii Shop even if World of Goo weren't debuting. In addition to one of the best games on Wii, the Virtual Console is updated with four high-quality titles. In fact, Phantasy Star alone would ensure that today was a winner. It's hard to imagine a better deal than Phantasy Star for just 600 Wii Points.

Other VC games available in Japan today include Castlevania 3 (awesome), the PC Engine version of the NES Ninja Gaiden (quite the curiosity!) and an arcade rail shooter from Namco Bandai. The other WiiWare game, and basically the only unknown property, is Hajitte! Block Rush, which looks like a radial Breakout in which the paddle is in the middle of the screen. We'd try that!

Virtual Console:
WiiWare:

JoystiqVC/WiiWare Tuesday: Phantasy World of Goo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevania-iiihajitte-block-rushjapanninja-gaidenstarbladevctuesdaywiiwareworld-of-gooTue, 21 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Ninja 'bored' of hyper violence, wants Gaiden to evolve]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/team-ninja-bored-of-hyper-violence-wants-gaiden-to-evolve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/team-ninja-bored-of-hyper-violence-wants-gaiden-to-evolve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/team-ninja-bored-of-hyper-violence-wants-gaiden-to-evolve/#comments
Team Ninja wants Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 to be "sleek and sexy," rather than focused on ultra violence, a major selling point for the original Xbox 360 sequel. Speaking with CVG, Sigma 2 producer and director Yosuke Hayashi said the team working on the upcoming PlayStation 3 revamp wants to shy away from retreading the waters of the Xbox version because the team is "kind of egoistic" and gets "bored with the same continuous concept."

That doesn't mean Hayashi wants to turn Sigma 2 into Flower, but that the team would rather pursue a different direction for the franchise and "start evolving this game." As long as the first piece of the evolutionary Ninja Gaiden puzzle is a working camera, we're all in.

JoystiqTeam Ninja 'bored' of hyper violence, wants Gaiden to evolve originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoyosuke-hayashiFri, 10 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Majora's Mask, Phantasy Star on Japanese Virtual Console in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/majoras-mask-phantasy-star-on-japanese-virtual-console-in-apri/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/majoras-mask-phantasy-star-on-japanese-virtual-console-in-apri/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/majoras-mask-phantasy-star-on-japanese-virtual-console-in-apri/#commentsWow! This has been a really great week to be a Nintendo fan. It's been a really great week to be a Virtual Console fan in particular -- when was the last time we could say something like that? The week has just gotten a lot better with the release of the list of upcoming Virtual Console releases for Japan.

Why? Two reasons. First: The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask. Like Ocarina of Time, it costs a painful 1,200 Wii Points -- and like Ocarina of Time, it will probably drop to the usual 1,000 in North America. Second, and possibly even more exciting: Phantasy Star! The Sega Master System RPG masterpiece is also coming to the Virtual Console. Maybe it's not a big deal to those of you with Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection, but personally, it's awesome news.

We fully expect to see both of these games in North America soon. Neither SMS games nor N64 games seem to take long to make it overseas. Also of interest: Hudson's PC Engine port of the NES Ninja Gaiden. And the arcade version of Space Invaders, which marks the third time the "original" Space Invaders has been released on VC.

The full list is after the break.

Continue reading Majora's Mask, Phantasy Star on Japanese Virtual Console in April

JoystiqMajora's Mask, Phantasy Star on Japanese Virtual Console in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmajoras-maskninja-gaidenphantasy-starreleasesspace-invadersthe-legend-of-zelda-majoras-maskvctuesdayvirtual-consoleFri, 27 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: Tecmo talks Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC, exclusivity, 'loss of face']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/gdc09-tecmo-talks-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-exclusivity-loss/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/gdc09-tecmo-talks-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-exclusivity-loss/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/gdc09-tecmo-talks-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-exclusivity-loss/#comments
At Tecmo's totally super secret game unveiling (yeah, it was Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2) at the soon-to-be-no-more PlayStation Store in San Francisco, Joystiq got the opportunity to ask Team Ninja's fresh new face, Yosuke Hayashi (who, with his buttoned-down appearance, can be thought of as the Richie Cunningham to Itagaki's Fonzie) some hard-hitting questions.

First up, the 800-lb ninja in the room: Is Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 "a loss of face for everyone involved," as Itagaki said it would be? Hayashi-san carefully sidestepped directly addressing Itagaki's inflammatory remark, instead focusing on the game's development origins. As if to defuse Itagaki's pre-release remark, Hayashi explained though a translator, "Development began only after we read and heard about fan feedback ... after Ninja Gaiden 2 came out last summer." To add some street cred, he explained that the game's development team was "comprised of the Ninja Gaiden 2 team as well as the [original Ninja Gaiden] Sigma team."

As for DLC, we broached the topic two ways. First, will the PS3 release have any? Hiyashi said they were "very serious about coming up with new content to be available as DLC" and that he hopes to share "more details soon." And second, can current owners of Ninja Gaiden 2 on Xbox 360 expect to find any of the new enhancements - notably the "refined camera" and new multiplayer co-op functionality - available as DLC in the future? Hiyashi didn't need the translation for this one. Sorry, early adopters, but Tecmo's "ultimate" Ninja Gaiden experience is "only on PlayStation."

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2

Continue reading GDC09: Tecmo talks Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC, exclusivity, 'loss of face'

JoystiqGDC09: Tecmo talks Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC, exclusivity, 'loss of face' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GDC-2009Ninja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Sigma-2Team-NinjaTecmoYosuke-HayashiWed, 25 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST