NINJA GAIDEN Σ2

About

NINJA GAIDEN Σ2 is a single player action adventure game. It was developed by KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. and was released on June 9, 2021. It received positive reviews from players.

Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is an action-packed hack and slash game with intense combat and challenging enemies. Players control the ninja Ryu Hayabusa as he battles his way through various environments and confronts powerful bosses. This edition includes enhanced graphics, new weapons, and additional characters from the original game. The game offers multiple difficulty levels, providing a challenging experience for both newcomers and hardcore players.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player

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82%

Audience ScoreBased on 741 reviews

story19 positive mentions

stability13 negative mentions

Fast-paced and satisfying combat that feels fluid and engaging.
Improved graphics and performance compared to previous versions, running smoothly at 60fps.
Additional playable characters and new chapters add variety to the gameplay experience.

Significant reduction in enemy count and gore, making the game feel less intense and visceral.
The upgrade system is simplified, allowing only one weapon upgrade at a time and removing the need for strategic resource management.
The port lacks basic PC features such as graphical options, keyboard and mouse support, and has issues with exiting the game properly.

story
129 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
15%
79%
6%
The story in the Ninja Gaiden series is often described as a secondary element, serving primarily as a backdrop for the action rather than a focal point. While some players appreciate the character development and engaging cutscenes, many criticize the narrative for being linear, nonsensical, and filled with repetitive boss encounters. Overall, the consensus is that while the story may not be deep or compelling, it provides enough context to enhance the thrilling combat experience that the series is known for.
- “The narrative ups the stakes with a more elaborate plot involving ancient fiends, mythical weapons, and world-ending conspiracies.”
- “The game follows the story of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja who embarks on a mission to stop the evil archfiend from taking over the world.”
- “The story itself has a much bigger focus this time around, and although it's absurd nonsense, I enjoyed it well enough.”
- “The premise remains familiar—Ryu Hayabusa is once again thrust into a global battle against supernatural forces, rival ninja clans, and monstrous fiends—but storytelling plays a supporting role rather than a central hook.”
- “Very linear and with a plot that doesn't make much sense, but the combat is so good that it's worth all the shortcomings.”
- “The story sucks in lots of ways, so much that this story for 3 shouldn't even exist after the ending of 2.”
gameplay
115 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
27%
67%
6%
The gameplay of the Ninja Gaiden series, particularly in Sigma 2, is praised for its fast-paced, stylish combat and improved mechanics over its predecessor, featuring a mix of light and heavy attacks, dismemberment, and execution moves that enhance player agency. However, some players note issues such as clunky controls, repetitive encounters, and a lack of depth in certain mechanics, which can detract from the overall experience. While the game offers a solid challenge and entertaining gameplay, it also suffers from graphical glitches and minimal customization options, leading to mixed feelings about its execution and balance.
- “The game’s commitment to player agency and mechanical expression reinforces why Ninja Gaiden continues to be revered across decades and platforms.”
- “It is confident, demanding, stylish, and unflinching, a testament to why Ninja Gaiden became synonymous with top-tier action gameplay.”
- “The combat system revolves around mixing light and heavy attacks into combos, with a dismemberment mechanic that allows instant kills on weakened enemies.”
- “I've only played the trilogy when they originally released, so I have a lot of nostalgia for these games, but like with the first one, I would not recommend the second one either for new players. Not because it's hard, though it is, but because the gameplay has aged very poorly. Like with the first game, the auto-lock system and the controls are very clunky. Games that test your reflexes should have smooth controls and a reliable camera. Gladly, it is better than the first game, but not by much; it still feels very clunky, especially if you compare it with more modern hack and slash games like Bayonetta or Nier: Automata.”
- “While it's an improvement over the first game in some aspects, it still suffers from repetitive encounters and lackluster gameplay flow.”
- “Gameplay gets really stale by around the midpoint of the game, at which point you'll probably want to just grind your way through as fast as possible.”
graphics
69 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
28%
65%
7%
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many praising the improved visuals and stable frame rates compared to previous versions, while others criticize the lack of modern graphical options and the presence of bugs, particularly on the Steam Deck. Although the art style and character models are often described as visually stunning and ahead of their time, the absence of customization options and some aesthetic changes have disappointed players. Overall, while the graphics are generally considered good for their time, they fall short of modern standards and expectations for a remaster.
- “The graphics were way ahead of its time and it looks amazing.”
- “Graphically, Sigma 2 looks impressive in the master collection, with improved resolution and a stable framerate that makes every slash and dodge feel responsive.”
- “The game's graphics are impressive, with detailed character models and environments that are richly detailed and visually stunning.”
- “Not a full remaster, so visuals are upgraded but not modern-level sharp.”
- “The game plays well, but I have encountered a few minor graphical bugs, and the game crashes every time you try to exit.”
- “There are no extras, no graphic settings (unless you count brightness and contrast), no updates to gameplay, and for whatever reason, the games don't want to be played in full screen.”
optimization
24 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
13%
74%
13%
Overall, the optimization of the game has received mixed reviews. While some players appreciate the smoother performance and improved frame rates on newer hardware, others criticize the significant reduction in enemy counts and persistent slowdown issues, particularly on older consoles. Despite some users experiencing no performance problems, many report that the game's optimization remains inconsistent, leading to frustration among players.
- “Runs smoother than the older releases, with better performance overall.”
- “One of the most noticeable changes in Sigma 2 is the reduced enemy count in some encounters, a move likely aimed at improving performance and accessibility.”
- “Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, the most controversial one, is very different from its vanilla version on the Xbox 360; it drops the big enemy count that appears on its linear levels in favor of performance stability, compensating it with enemies that have more health.”
- “Enemy counts are cut in half, and arguments for performance go down the shitter the moment I hit harder slowdown spikes than the original game frequently.”
- “Horrible port optimization.”
- “Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, the most controversial one on the other hand is very different from its vanilla version of the Xbox 360; it drops the big enemy count that appears on its linear levels in favor of performance stability, compensating it with enemies that have more health (just some, not all).”
stability
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
7%
93%
The game's stability has been criticized for numerous graphical bugs and glitches, particularly on the Steam Deck, leading to issues such as freezing when attempting to quit. While some players report a generally smooth experience without crashes or performance drops, many others describe it as a "buggy mess" that disrupts gameplay and undermines the overall experience. Despite these issues, some players still find the game enjoyable and worth the price.
- “Bottom line is that it runs great and is still a good/fun challenge that's well worth the asking price.”
- “Game freezes when you want to quit, either by menu or alt+f4.”
- “Buggy mess that doesn't let you exit the game without breaking.”
- “Sigma II is a buggy mess that doesn't respect the vision of the original game, and even refuses to acknowledge its own improvements in the most current port.”
music
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
36%
43%
21%
The music in Ninja Gaiden II has received mixed reviews, with many praising the soundtrack for complementing the fast-paced action and enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game. While some tracks are highlighted as standout pieces, others are criticized for being droning or out of place, leading to a somewhat inconsistent listening experience. Overall, the soundtrack is considered an improvement over the first game, contributing positively to the game's artistic direction.
- “The game also features a great soundtrack that perfectly complements the action on-screen.”
- “Best Ninja Gaiden game in my opinion, gameplay is always fast-paced and enjoyable, soundtrack is great, and the graphics are really pretty.”
- “The music for the game is very good and like the first game this definitely has some good tracks.”
- “Ninja Gaiden II's presentation is a class act for the most part, but a droning and unnoticeable soundtrack keeps the heartbeat of the game at a moderate thump most of the time.”
- “The soundtrack is good, but not great.”
- “The soundtracks are a bit all over the place; definitely some bangers hidden in there, but some of the looped tracks can be a bit out of place from time to time.”
humor
12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The humor in the game is characterized by its absurdity, particularly in the juxtaposition of serious themes with over-the-top violence, leading to moments that are unintentionally hilarious. Players find amusement in the game's mechanics, such as the irony of a challenging boss fight becoming trivialized, and the contrast of the ultra-serious protagonist delivering cheesy one-liners. Overall, the blend of dark humor and absurdity creates a unique comedic experience, even amidst the game's intense action.
- “Ngii is a very bloody and gory game, to the point that it becomes hilarious at how absurd the violence is.”
- “In the epicenter of this whole thing, Ryu Hayabusa, an ultra-serious man that doesn't make or take any jokes, is an emotional anchor that holds everything from imploding on itself and becomes probably the most hilarious thing in the game with his cheesy one-liners.”
- “But then you realize it's now the only boss in the game you can perfect by sitting in one spot and spamming ultimate technique with no consequence, and then you can't help but laugh (it's so sad it wraps back around to being funny).”
grinding
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be largely tedious, with many enemies capable of one-shot kills that can feel frustrating and cheap. While some appreciate the reduction in backtracking and puzzles, the combat often devolves into long, drawn-out encounters that lack excitement, leading to a repetitive and unengaging experience. Overall, the balance between challenge and enjoyment seems skewed, resulting in a grind that detracts from the overall fun.
- “Nearly every enemy can one-shot kill you at any point by grabbing you - and this can feel cheap or tedious at times.”
- “The enemies will either be extremely easy or extremely tedious, and their grab attacks will take a huge chunk of your health bar out, which is rather infuriating at times.”
- “Which sounds okay on paper but results in long drawn-out fights that lose their excitement and force the player to just play safe and tedious.”
replayability
8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
38%
24%
38%
The game's replayability is enhanced by additional content such as new enemies, extra missions, and a "ninja trials" mode, appealing to action game enthusiasts. However, some players feel that the lack of cooperative play and the limited access to playable characters in specific chapters diminish its overall replay value. While it offers challenges and achievements for dedicated players, the experience may not be as fulfilling for those seeking extensive replayability.
- “Additional content, including new enemies and the 'ninja trials' mode, offers replayability.”
- “It ultimately is a bit shorter than NG1, but it doesn't bother me since it's very replayable and has a lot of challenge content.”
- “- Contains the Sigma versions, which have some quality of life improvements and additional content compared to previous versions (more playable characters, outfits, and game modes).”
- “Just enjoy it for its action, but don't expect much replay value unless you have achievements you want to spend hours collecting and upsetting yourself trying to unlock them.”
- “1st, no co-op as the original version of Sigma 2, which instantly makes this game have less replayability.”
- “Having more playable characters is the main upgrade to NGS2, so having them locked to one specific chapter per character really limits NGS2's potential.”
character development
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
60%
Character development in the game is primarily conveyed through engaging cutscenes that enhance the narrative of Ryu's quest against the black ninja clan. While the artistic direction, including atmosphere and character design, is praised, there are criticisms regarding the portrayal of female characters and dialogue, which some players find lacking in originality. Overall, the character development is noted for its visual storytelling, despite some controversial design choices.
- “The narrative follows Ryu's quest against the Black Ninja Clan, with engaging cutscenes that provide character development.”
- “Sometimes it feels like a total rip-off, especially when it comes to dialogue and female character design.”
- “Similar amount of embarrassing female character design and jiggle physics.”
- “The one cool thing is the storyboard work they have for 2 and some environmental stuff even I haven't seen before, including character design work, so I appreciate that much.”
emotional
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players express strong emotional reactions to the narratives in games like 177013 and Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, highlighting moments of deep sadness and attachment to characters. The juxtaposition of serious themes with humor, particularly through the character of Ryu Hayabusa, adds a unique emotional depth, making the experience both touching and entertaining.
- “I cried when I saw what they did to my girl in 177013.”
- “I cried harder when I saw what they did to my boy in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.”
- “In the epicenter of this whole thing, Ryu Hayabusa, an ultra-serious man that doesn't make or take any jokes, is an emotional anchor that holds everything from imploding on itself and becomes probably the most hilarious thing in the game with his cheesy one-liners.”
atmosphere
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
100%
The atmosphere of the game is praised for its exceptional artistic direction, including character design and soundtrack, which significantly enhances the overall experience. Players note a positive shift in their perception of the game, particularly with the improvements made in the Razor's Edge edition, reflecting Team Ninja's commitment to refining the game's atmosphere and acknowledging past shortcomings.
- “The game's artistic direction is stunning, creating an immersive atmosphere that draws you in with its character design and captivating soundtrack.”
- “Every element of the atmosphere, from the visuals to the sound, works together to create a truly enchanting experience.”
- “The atmosphere is rich and detailed, making you feel like you're part of a living, breathing world.”
- “The atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, lacking the depth and immersion that I expected from this game.”
- “Despite the beautiful graphics, the overall atmosphere is dull and fails to engage the player.”
- “I found the atmosphere to be quite lifeless, making it hard to get invested in the game's world.”
monetization
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The monetization strategy is criticized as a blatant cash grab that exploits nostalgia, leading to a negative perception among users.
- “Just a pure garbage cash grab to exploit nostalgia.”
- “The monetization is overly aggressive and ruins the gameplay experience.”
- “It's frustrating to see so many features locked behind paywalls.”