Summary
- Release Year: 2012
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Platform
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox 360
- Developers: Klei Entertainment
- Publishers: Microsoft Studios
Mark of the Ninja: A Silent, Deadly Shadow
Released in 2012, Mark of the Ninja is a side-scrolling action stealth video game developed by Klei Entertainment and published by Microsoft Studios. It was released for Xbox 360 via Xbox Live Arcade and Microsoft Windows. The game follows the story of a nameless ninja in the present day, and features a themed conflict between ancient ninja tradition and modern technology.
Gameplay
Mark of the Ninja is a 2D side-scrolling stealth game in which the player controls a ninja on a mission to infiltrate an enemy fortress and rescue his kidnapped wife. The game’s levels are designed to be open-ended, allowing the player to choose their own path and approach each objective.
The player character is equipped with a variety of tools and abilities to help him navigate the environment and eliminate his enemies. These include a grappling hook, smoke bombs, and a katana. The player can also use the environment to his advantage, hiding in shadows and using objects to create distractions.
Stealth
Stealth is a key element of Mark of the Ninja’s gameplay. The player must carefully consider their movements and actions in order to avoid being detected by enemies. If the player is spotted, they will be forced to fight their way through the level.
There are a number of ways to remain undetected in Mark of the Ninja. The player can use shadows to their advantage, hiding in them to avoid being seen. They can also use smoke bombs to create a distraction, allowing them to slip past enemies unnoticed.
Combat
While stealth is the preferred approach in Mark of the Ninja, there are times when combat is unavoidable. The player character is skilled in a variety of martial arts techniques, and can use his katana to quickly and efficiently eliminate his enemies.
Combat in Mark of the Ninja is fast-paced and fluid. The player can chain together a variety of attacks to create deadly combos. The player can also use the environment to their advantage, using objects to stun or kill enemies.
Art Style
Mark of the Ninja’s art style is inspired by traditional Japanese水墨画 (sumi-e) ink wash painting. The game’s levels are rendered in a minimalist style, with a focus on black and white. This art style gives the game a unique and striking look.
Story
Mark of the Ninja’s story is told through a series of cutscenes rendered in a Saturday morning cartoon animation style. The story follows a nameless ninja on a mission to infiltrate an enemy fortress and rescue his kidnapped wife.
The story is relatively simple, but it is well-written and engaging. The characters are well-developed and the plot is full of twists and turns.
Reception
Mark of the Ninja was critically acclaimed upon release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning art style, and engaging story. It was named Game of the Year by several publications, including IGN and GameSpot.
Mark of the Ninja has sold over 1 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling indie games of all time.
Legacy
Mark of the Ninja is considered to be one of the best stealth games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning art style, and engaging story. The game has inspired a number of other stealth games, including Aragami and Styx: Master of Shadows.
Mark of the Ninja is a must-play for fans of stealth games and action games. It is a unique and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing it.
10/10
Review Score
9.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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