[PlayStation 5] Review of NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black

NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black is back in action, reborn for the PlayStation 5 thanks to the efforts of TEAM NINJA and KOEI TECMO America. If you’re ready to step into the shoes of the legendary Ryu Hayabusa once more, this remastered classic is waiting for you. Here’s the inside scoop from our latest review!

Before diving in, you’ll notice that the game asks for your date of birth to access age-restricted content. Back in 2008, NINJA GAIDEN 2 first made its debut on the Xbox 360. It wasn’t long before it found its way to the PlayStation 3 under the title NINJA GAIDEN 2 Sigma in 2009 and eventually landed on the PlayStation Vita in 2013. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s time to revisit Ryu’s epic saga on the PlayStation 5. This remaster combines content from both NINJA GAIDEN 2 and NINJA GAIDEN 2 Sigma, offering the quintessential experience.

The game remains as dynamic and intense as ever, demanding quick reflexes as you navigate through its perilous environments. Are you ready for this Mature-rated, blood-soaked journey? In NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black, you control Ryu with the left analog stick while adjusting your view with the right. Jumping is as simple as a press of the X button, while quick and strong attacks are at your fingertips with the Square and Triangle buttons, respectively. Mastering combinations will become second nature as you progress, unlocking lethal new techniques to dispatch foes with precision. And as in classics such as Devil May Cry or Bayonetta, staying sharp is key.

Throwing shurikens with the Circle button can give you a strategic distance advantage, but enemies wise up quickly, blocking if you rely on them too much. For dealing out ranged punishment, your projectile weapons sit comfortably on the R2 button. Just remember to aim with L2 to enhance your accuracy! To switch your arsenal and gear, the D-Pad is your best friend, providing swift access to melee weapons, items, ninpo, and projectile weapons as needed. When you’re not sure where to head next, press and hold R1 to illuminate your path forward.

As you carve your way through the game, you’ll pick up special ninja techniques. The Shadowless Footsteps, for instance, is tucked inside a chest early on and lets you defy gravity by running along walls. Next, you’ll acquire the Obliteration technique, ideal for finishing off enemies who’ve already lost limbs. Press Triangle near a maimed foe to unleash a fatal attack. Meanwhile, the Reverse Wind technique—a quick evasive move—uses L1 and the left stick to sidestep danger.

Among the arsenal of attacks, you’ll encounter the Art of Inferno. Activate this Ninpo attack using the Triangle and Circle buttons to scorch enemies with a fireball, at the cost of draining your Ki gauge. Gather red essence to refuel your Ki, and keep an eye out for the Flying Bird technique scroll, enabling you to elegantly traverse walls. Another trick, the Flying Swallow, lets you soar and strike from above, executed by pressing forward with the left stick and Triangle. These techniques only scratch the surface of what’s in store for you.

A significant part of your journey includes discovering Dragon Statues. These guardians of your progress allow you to save and heal when no enemies are near. They emit a helpful blue light during the healing process, then shift to a pale white glow, ready for your next save. Blue essence will occasionally drop from enemies, helping to restore your health amidst the chaos of battle. Stay vigilant, as enemies are relentless, often resorting to self-detonation to bring you down.

In your battles, defeated enemies will sometimes leave behind yellow essence—currency for the Muramasa Shop. Upgrade weapons like the Dragon Sword or the Lunar Staff and purchase health-restoring Herbs of Spiritual Life or the Ki-rejuvenating Devil’s Way Mushroom.

For achievement hunters, this remaster packs a full trophy list crowned by a platinum, boasting 24 Bronze, 9 Silver, and 4 Gold trophies. This journey isn’t just a walk in the park. You’ll need to master all ninja techniques, clear specific chapters, complete the game on various difficulty levels—Path of the Acolyte through to the Path of the Master Ninja—and more, making for a truly challenging endeavor.

NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black is a refined version of TEAM NINJA’s and KOEI TECMO America’s acclaimed action game, revitalizing Ryu Hayabusa’s story for the PS5. Originally an Xbox 360 title, it transitioned to PS3 and PS Vita, and now, in 2025, it has made its glorious return. Priced at $49.99, this thrill ride promises to keep you on your toes, slicing through enemies with style and precision.

Just remember, our review is based on a copy provided by KOEI TECMO America, giving us the full experience of this stunning PS5 remaster.