Virtually anyone who was around during the reign of the NES will remember the original Ninja Gaiden trilogy and have warm, fuzzy nostalgic memories of the adventures of ninja Ryu Hayabusa. First incepted as an arcade beat-em-up, the NES version was a major change, focusing more on fast paced ninja-esque action and acrobatics than simply pummeling some random bad guy. Widely regarded as the best action games of its age (not to mention some of the hardest games ever created), it’s a wonder that Tecmo decided to wait almost 15 years to create a sequel to one of its most popular franchises aside from Dead or Alive (Ryu made an appearance as an unlockable character in DOA3). Finally, Ninja Gaiden has returned and is making is return on the Xbox in an entirely new game. Not only is Ninja Gaiden one of the most beautiful games around, it is also one of the most engaging, challenging and just plain best game ever made. Believe me when I say that Ninja Gaiden has the power to replace Halo as the killer-app for the Xbox. It is just that good.  Unlike the recent flood of old games getting the 128-bit facelift, Ninja Gaiden is actually a brand-new game and also faithfully retains all the aspects of the Ninja Gaiden games of yesteryear. This iteration of Ninja Gaiden tells the story of Ryu Hayabusa, the last ninja of the Hayabusa Ninja Clan. For generations, his clan was the guardian of the Dark Dragon Blade, a sword made from a dark dragon and has untold evil powers. The evil Vigoor Empire learns of this blade and slaughters the village and steals the sword, only Ryu manages to live. Now, bent on taking revenge for his slain brethren, Ryu heads toward the heart of the Vigoor Empire to slay the emperor and the reclaim the Dark Dragon Sword.  There have been a few concerns about how this game will play now that it is in 3D. It plays similarly to games like Devil May Cry, but much much better. You progress through different areas (and can even backtrack and look for items you may have missed), and most levels have a boss or two, which are pretty darn challenging. Let me reiterate; Ninja Gaiden is not for the easily frustrated or people who think this is a hack and slash. This game REQUIRES finesse and rewards skillful play, which means quit bashing on the attack button or you’re going to get killed. Knowing when to block, roll and attack is vital to getting through this game. People may think of this as a crutch or possible hinder to the game, but they don’t know jack. The game is PERFECT as is, and once you get the feel for how it works, you will agree.  The graphics are the best yet seen on Xbox; character models, level textures, particle effects, ect are all superb. The sound is even better, and has to boast one of the most suitable soundtracks ever. The camera can be somewhat difficult at first, but after a few levels you will be able to control it just fine. Throughout the game, Ryu will collect an arsenal of weapons, from his standard Dragon Sword to Nunchucks, to Flails and giant Warhammers and more, and all are upgradable to make them even more badass. The game has some pretty sweet unlockables as well; a cyber-looking Ryu with plasma saber (think lightsaber from Star Wars), and as an added bonus you can unlock the full version of all three NES Ninja Gaiden games. How sweet is that?

Xbox owners, you know what to do. Go out and grab this game pronto. You will not be disappointed.