Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Arcade, Sport
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Atari 8-bit, Commodore 16, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Tron Software
- Publishers: Firebird Software
Ninja Master: A Retrospective
Released in 1986, Ninja Master is a side-scrolling action game that puts players in the role of a ninja on a quest to rescue his master. The game is known for its challenging gameplay, iconic graphics, and innovative use of digitized speech.
Gameplay
Ninja Master is a side-scrolling action game in which the player controls a ninja on a mission to rescue his master. The player must fight his way through hordes of enemies, using a variety of weapons and techniques. The game is known for its challenging difficulty, with enemies that are both numerous and powerful.
One of the things that sets Ninja Master apart from other side-scrolling action games of its era is its use of digitized speech. When the player character is hit by an enemy, he will cry out in pain. When he picks up a new weapon, he will announce its name. This use of digitized speech was groundbreaking at the time, and it helped to create a more immersive and realistic gaming experience.
Graphics
Ninja Master’s graphics are simple but effective. The characters and backgrounds are all rendered in a colorful and detailed pixel art style. The game’s use of color is particularly impressive, with each level featuring its own unique color scheme.
Sound
Ninja Master’s sound is also top-notch. The game’s soundtrack is composed of catchy and upbeat tunes that perfectly complement the fast-paced gameplay. The game’s sound effects are also well-done, with each weapon and enemy having its own unique sound.
Legacy
Ninja Master was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, innovative use of digitized speech, and impressive graphics. Ninja Master has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game among fans of retro gaming.
Conclusion
Ninja Master is a classic arcade game that deserves its place among the greats. The game’s challenging gameplay, iconic graphics, and innovative use of digitized speech make it a must-play for any fan of retro gaming.
Additional Information
- Ninja Master was developed by Irem and released in arcades in 1986.
- The game was ported to the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1988.
- Ninja Master was followed by a sequel, Ninja Master’s: Revenge, which was released in 1990.
- The game has been included in a number of retro game compilations, including the Irem Arcade Hits collection for the PlayStation 2 and the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Review
Ninja Master is a challenging but rewarding game that offers hours of fun. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, innovative use of digitized speech, and impressive graphics make it a must-play for any fan of retro gaming.
Score: 8.5 out of 10
Review Score
8.5/10
