The graphics are not as appealing as anyone would think they are. They are not original or groundbreaking. They look realistic; it�s just that there is nothing new or exciting. The biggest plus to the game's graphics are the character movements: jumping, sword fighting, wall running, dashing, combos all look spectacular and objects over water have nice reflections. The cut-scenes are what bring the graphics up to speed. They are sharp and not skippy. They are fluid and well done. The scarf, it�s a nice original touch, especially since it can harm enemies. The load times, and intermissions are extremely short, sometimes you may not even know there was an intermission. Every enemy ninja has the same concept except the color of their outfit and their weapon. The CG work is well done, but the backgrounds are what brings the graphics score down. I give Shinobi a 7/10 for visual effects.
When Shinobi is told to do something through gameplay, he does it right away, with no freezing segments or no delayed reactions. Its one of the smoothest control systems, the controls are somewhat like the Onimusha series. You will step-by-step learn all of Hotsuma�s specials and lightening quick sword combinations. Each level has its own style, but it repeats that style through the complete level. There is no variation in the levels. This could have been done better. Running on walls and being able to throw shurikens is a great touch. You can kick enemies in mid air, jump off the wall and stomp on an enemy. This is an original touch, which Shinobi doesn�t have much of. (8/10)
The sound of swords swaying, shurikens flying and enemies dying are very crisp and clear. The voice acting during the cut-scenes are well done. Even the background music is well completed, it fits the level you are playing, and it doesn�t distract you while gaming. The ninjas often taunt you while trying to kill them, and the growling noises of the demons are realistic. (9/10)
The replayability is probably low, for a lot of you. It is a real difficult game, and there are no checkpoints. So, if you die at the end of a level, whether it is from a demon a trap or explosions, you have to start from the beginning of the level again. I am one who does not like this way of gaming. I also like challenging games, so it does meet my requirements. Yet, it does get boring if you have to restart over and over again. (8/10)
RENT: Why do I say rent you ask? Well because they�re a few long levels, and the story is a little lame. It�s ordinary, and has copied other Playstation 2 series. There are some secret stuff waiting to be released if you beat the game or find coins. (This game deserves a 7/10)