Ninja JaJaMaru: Retro Collection

Fans of arcade and retro games will be surprised to learn of the release of this unexpected collection of Japanese platformers from the late 80's and early 90's. A decked out retro collection of Ninja JaJaMaru Jaleco titles given the updated Ratalaila games, ININ Games, and City Connection treatment. Featuring 6 full games, a gallery, and bonus options to cater to every gamer type fans, and newcomers will enjoy what was once obscure. 

With the "Ninja JaJaMaru: Retro Collection" we get to experience the evolution of the series from it's humble arcade origins to it's console debut, and even it's transition to older handhelds. There are six games in total. Each with their own unique title, back story, and playable characters. Mechanics also vary, but stay mostly similar in the platforming sense. You'll face off against yokai as both JaJaMaru, and Princess Sakura. Adventuring alongside them as the fight an evil pirate, a castle full of monsters, a space threat, and Satan himself. Variety isn't lacking and regardless of title there's something for everyone. In fact the series closely resembles that of games like "Super Mario Bros.", "Donkey Kong", and even "Castlevania". Leaving it's ninja versus yokai theme to be it's main difference by comparison. 

With the 6 games also comes the cornucopia of bonus features. Allowing for screen size and scanline adjustments as well as cheats or enhancements meant to make a playthrough less challenging. Not that any of the games are really that difficult to complete though. Additionally there's a gallery for each individual game showcasing box art, illustrations, and art from advertisements from back in the game's hayday. It's these extras that make the collection all the more worthwhile. 

Between the games' scoring gimmicks, platforming puzzles, and unique take on JaJaMaru's ninja skills there's a lot to take in as you perfect your playthroughs. One staple feature found throughout most of the games is the souls or spirits that rise from defeated yokai. These can be collected for score and health depending on the game. Items or power-ups also play into the combative nature of each title giving JaJaMaru, and Princess Sakura different ways to complete stages and deal with the yokai there. Some games even feature co-op play, or two-player turn based options wherein a friend or family can join in for some fun.

The Verdict ...

This is one of the better Ninja JaJaMaru collections for sale now. It is actually my favorite of the two I've currently reviewed, and is host to some amazingly impressive retro games that I would have never played had they not come to the West in this package deal. It is rare we find such obscure games from the 80's and 90's here in the West, especially those of Japanese origin. Of course the bonus features are icing on the cake, and allow for a varied experience depending on player preference. All in all it's a retro collection I can get behind, and highly recommend you giving it a shot at the $20 mark. It is worth it.

STORE: https://www.iningames.com/games/ninja-jajamaru

Visit my YouTube channel for some gameplay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLxYAUGsRT0