Mark of the Ninja (XBLA): "A Hands-On Ninja Experience"

Ninjas are one of the most revered of all assassins. Hollywood, toy makers, and even game designers have all delved into the mystical world of the ninja. Over the years I myself have enjoyed such entertainment fantasies, and even once pretended as a child that I was a ninja. When it comes to the world of gaming Ninjitsu is just as fantastical as the delusions of grandeur that a child such as myself has entertained. I've seen a wide array of game titles in my time that encompass the many aspects of the ninja genre. During the NES days I spent long hours trying my best to master all of the "Ninja Gaiden" games. As I grew up I spent even more time, and money on game releases that also surrounded the mythology including RPGs, and fighting games. As gaming has evolved so has the portrayal of these historic figures. It seems that even passing time cannot dull the god-like mystique that these shadowy death dealers have become so famous for.

Klei Entertainment, the makers of such games as "Shank", and "Shank 2" have brought to the table a game that adds realism to the fantasy of the ninja world. Their latest game "Mark of the Ninja" Weaves a tale that is definitely fiction in presentation, but that also delivers true-to-life methods of ninja assassination. Within the game you'll take on the role of a nameless ninja champion who was summoned by a grand master to set right the wrongs of an evil overlord. Fitted with a special ink tattoo this champion of the ninja clan sets forth on a path of blood letting that will ultimately end in his own demise. It's a sacrifice that the champion is more than willing to accept, and one that will put your (the gamer's) stealth skills to the ultimate test.

Mark of the Ninja is a 2D side-scrolling platformer that looks a lot like the "Shank" series. While the art style is very much the same in some respects the gameplay is entirely different. Instead of running, and gunning like a modern day Rambo you will be required to sneak from point A to point B while trying not to attract attention to yourself. Of course there will be lots of killing along the way, but the main focus of the game is on the stealth techniques of the ninja assassin that you control.

At your disposal you have an interesting selection of upgradeable techniques that can be found hidden within certain areas of the game as well as tools of the trade such as noise firecrackers, a grappling hook, and throwing knives. Aside from these features you do have a sword with which you can dispatch your enemies. Like any true "mature" ninja/stealth game you are allowed to assassinate unsuspecting victims in a bloody visceral display as you sneak up upon them. By simply pressing (X) next to them followed by (X) plus a proper directional input you will either cut their throat, or shove your sword through their back ending their meaningless lives.

Distracting your targets, and hiding also plays a huge role in "Mark of the Ninja". As a ninja light is obviously not your friend. Being spotted by your intended target is likely the worst thing that could happen to you. Luckily for you there's plenty of shadows to hide in, and when there's not any you can make some by knocking out lights with your throwing knives. After killing an intended target you'll need to hide the body as not to attract any undesired attention to yourself. How can I do this you ask? It's quite simple really. There are floor panels, dumpsters, and background doors that you can use to hide your victim's body. Not only that but you are rewarded points for doing so.

Speaking of points, "Mark of the Ninja" is a score based game. You are awarded points for such things as silent kills, hiding bodies, finding hidden artifacts, and other things related to how you kill your target. Such things as completing a stage without being detected, or completing all objectives within a stage will reward you with additional points that will help improve your status on the game's leaderboards. Each given stage also has three possible seals that can be earned if you earn enough points during your playthrough. Perfecting your playthroughs of each stage will most certainly pay off in the long run. Bonuses such as extra character costumes, and high leaderboard rankings will be rewarded for your efforts.

Overall "Mark of the Ninja" is a straightforward game that will test your gaming skills in many ways. The game is filled to the brim with puzzles, and stealth gameplay that will have you thinking on a constant basis. It features a solid story told through animated cutscenes reminiscent of Saturday morning cartoons, and has a mature theme that caters to a more adult audience. The tale while brief is filled with gameplay that is more than memorable. You will no doubt revisit each stage in the game just to unlock everything it has to offer. While some games try your patience this one is a lot more friendly, and allows for things to be done in a variety of different ways. There is no set path from one end of a stage to the other, and as such the game isn't required to be played through in just one way. I thoroughly enjoyed my playthrough of the game, and as such I can confidently tell you that this game is worth every point. If you haven't bought it yet do the proper thing, and at least give the trial a shot.