Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a 3D Game Disguised as 2D

by

The Shinobi series has traditionally been a 2D game, starting with its early arcade and Sega Master System titles. In keeping with its roots, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance enhances the series’ visual design and mechanics by featuring intricate background environments, sometimes even extending beyond the primary plane that players navigate in its 2D action-platforming gameplay. As players explore each level in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, they should not only appreciate the scenery but also be vigilant, as threats could potentially come from multiple directions, making it necessary to approach the game as if dangers can emerge from three dimensions.

In contrast to traditional 2D platformer games that typically feature static backdrops, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance adds a sense of liveliness to its stages by incorporating dynamic set pieces into the background. The game’s visual aesthetic is one of the main attractions for players eager to explore LizardCube’s contemporary reboot of the franchise, and these dynamic backdrops may pique the interest of many as they progress through the game. Moreover, keeping a close eye on each level’s background is crucial during gameplay, as it can signal approaching enemies and obstacles that the player needs to be prepared for.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Makes Keeping an Eye on the Background a Must

Enemies can Telegraph Attacks from the Background

In the main campaign of “Shinobi: Art of Vengeance”, players might discover that opponents may initially appear as shadowy silhouettes moving across some stages in the backdrop. This means players must not only focus on enemies directly before them but also monitor those in the distance. The shadows serve as a warning to the player about potential dangers ahead, as these enemies often enter the same plane as the player shortly after they were spotted in the background.

Some players might find it challenging to divide their focus between the actions happening directly in front of Musashi and those happening in the background. However, those who can strike the right balance will reap additional benefits during combat. With the backdrop serving as an early warning system for enemy attacks, players can predict them and respond swiftly with a precise kunai throw or one of Shinobi’s Ninpo skills, intercepting enemies before they have the chance to attack.

At times, potential threats may be hinted at by dark figures moving ahead of the main playing field, requiring players to stay vigilant and watch both the background and the foreground carefully.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance’s Bonus Stages Require the Most Background Focus

In the bonus stages of the game “Shinobi: Art of Vengeance,” players should focus on the backdrop the most. These auto-scrolling levels, though not essential for advancing through the main plot, present attractive rewards to those who endure the onslaught of enemies and obstacles until the end. Navigating these challenges is challenging due to numerous distractions that emerge as the level progresses, originating from both the background and mid-ground.

In these stages, players encounter extra adversaries initially appearing behind them, providing some advance notice before they move forward, allowing players time to strategize attacks or evasive maneuvers. Yet, the most formidable foes are the colossal ones that launch wide-area (AoE) attacks from afar. Fortunately, these enemies signal their impending assault with preliminary warnings both in the background and then midway through the scene, enabling players to predict their attack location and have Joe Musashi dodge accordingly.

Read More

2025-08-30 14:06