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.

Mark of the Ninja (XBLA) - Never Before Seen Trailer & Ninja Gaiden Tribute Art!!!

If you've been paying attention to my "future reviews" section then you'll know that I've had Klei Entertainment's new XBLA game "Mark of the Ninja" listed for quite some time now. As usual I've gotten the game ahead of the release date, and have been working hard at completing it so that I can deliver a proper review. My playthrough is currently still an ongoing process, but I promise that I'll deliver my review soon. Until that time I have a very special Never-Before-Seen video to share with you that showcases bonus costumes, and new ninja tools. I also have a Twitter link that shows of some "Ninja Gaiden" mash-up/tribute art. You'll find links to both below. If your interested in getting the game it will cost 1200 msp, and will be released on the XBL marketplace today. I suggest that you at least give the game a chance by sampling the trial.

Mark of the Ninja - Costume & Tool Trailer

Mark of the Ninja - Twitter Ninja Gaiden Mash-Up Art

- Brad (OtakuDante) -

Shank 2 (XBLA): "Sequel To The Original Blood Filled Brawler"

I'm going to begin by saying that I have never actually played the first "Shank" game. I did notice during my playthrough of "Shank 2" that it looked like the continuation of another story. With that being said though I was able to understand everything that was going on without having played the previous game. What I discovered when I played "Shank 2" was a gory 2D brawler/platformer that seemed to have elements of the "Metal Slug" games, and an art style similar to the "Samurai Jack" series. It also featured an interesting, and deeply involved combo system with a wide variety of weapons. All of the characters in the game had their own unique personality that gave them a likable quality. Shank (the hero) was a lone wolf kind of guy that reminded me a lot of "Marcus Phoenix" from the "Gears of War" series. He had that same gritty voice, and attitude going on. As I played the game I really began to like Shank's style. As interesting as the characters were I found that the story to be even more entertaining. It featured a plot about organ harvesting, a dying dictator, a mad doctor, and even a female cult leader among other things. It was like a "Quentin Tarantino" grindhouse feature that was made into a video game!