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'Ninja 1987:' Retro-Style Platformer Takes Inspiration From 'Shinobi,' 'Ninja Gaiden'

'Ninja 1987:' Retro-Style Platformer Takes Inspiration From 'Shinobi,' 'Ninja Gaiden'

'Ninja 1987:' Retro-Style Platformer Takes Inspiration From 'Shinobi,' 'Ninja Gaiden'
Developer SEEP is bringing its retro-style platformer Ninja 1987 to consoles this month after releasing on PC earlier this year.
(Photo : SEEP / Screenshot taken from Steam)

Developer SEEP is bringing its retro-style action platformer Ninja 1987 to consoles following a release on PC via Steam in September 2024.

There were many ninja-themed movies and gaming experiences that dominated the scene during the 1980s. Two of the biggest names at the time were Ninja Gaiden and Shinobi, which are Ninja 1987's main inspirations.

Ninja 1987 on Consoles

Shinobi was a big arcade hit before it eventually got revamped on the Sega Genesis, and Ninja Gaiden was an arcade hit that transitioned to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The latter is most popular with its trilogy on the NES as its influence stuck around decades later.

There have since been many attempts by different developers to modernize classic formulas, such as Mark of the Ninja and Shadow of the Ninja. Shadow Blade instead offered a bite-sized stage incarnation of the classic Ninja Gaiden vibe but featured improved visuals, according to Hardcore Gamer.

Read Also: Phantom Blade Zero's Latest Demo Showcases Fast-Paced Ninja-Gaiden Like Action

SEEP was able to self-publish Ninja 1987 earlier this year for PC, and Ratalaika is set to be the one to work on releasing the game to Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. The official release date for consoles is Dec. 13, 2024.

Ninja 1987 successfully captured the feel of a game from the 1980s but without the problems that plagued many titles of the time. Its gameplay has a certain polish about it that makes it feel a lot better than other classics when it comes to various controls, such as jumps.

A Retro-Style Platforming Adventure

SEEP is a studio that was originally formed by two brothers who had a lot of old-school video games. The developer is known for various titles, such as the Swords & Bones series, Biomech Hell, and Abduction Bit, among others, Nintendo Life said.

Ninja 1987 falls within the same pattern of having seven challenging levels for players to go through as they listen to chiptune music. The game features retro visuals and allows for a precise platforming experience.

It is currently available for only $4.99 on the Nintendo eShop, and many of its reviews on Valve's gaming platform are positive. One major issue that a lot of players have had with it is that it feels like the game is playing a little bit too safe.

Key features of Ninja 1987 include smooth platforming mechanics, such as double jumps and climbing. Players can also unlock various achievements if they are trying to challenge themselves even further, according to My Gamer.


Related Article: #SteamSpotlight 'Mark of the Ninja: Remastered' Lets You Experience What It's Like to be a Stealthy Ninja

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