A remake done right

User Rating: 9.5 | Ninja Gaiden Black XBOX
Ninja Gaiden is one of the best Xbox games available. So how does a remake of a game that is already exemplary in its respective genres exceed its predecessor? By keeping everything that made the first good and adding even more. Ninja Dog is undoubtedly useful for those who can't handle Normal difficulty. Master Ninja will challenge even the most skilled of players (Alma is a total &*!@# on Master Ninja!). New cutscenes add little to the already Japanese-heavy story, but you don't play this for story- you play for action! The A.I. has been improved overall, especially in boss fights. A new weapon addition sweetens up the combat further. That said, why would you play this if you already kicked the crap out of Ninja Gaiden? Two words- Mission Mode. 50 levels designed to test your best moves. The only problem with this game is the same as the one before it- the camera. Granted, when you're in open areas where the camera can remain panned out, it's good. In close-quarters combat, narrow areas, or when obstacles impede the view the camera can be somewhat less-than-friendly. Other than that this game simply shines. More friendly to both casual and hardcore gamers, this game is simply a must play for fans of the original Ninja Gaiden, action games, or the Xbox in general.