Best of Sega Genesis: The Revenge of Shinobi
One of my favorite games on the Genesis is The Revenge of Shinobi. This game was special because it was one of the first to surpass its arcade version. I remember wasting many quarters on Shinobi at the arcade. When I played Revenge of Shinobi on the Genesis, I knew my arcade days were over.
This side scrolling fighting game had a life meter, several new attacks, power ups, and better levels than the original Shinobi. I have to say, it was one of the hardest games, harder than Ghouls ‘N Ghosts. But it was very rewarding to finally defeat the final boss.
I’m biased, but Revenge of Shinobi is the best in the series in my opinion. The versions after it seemed too clunky. The first arcade games were fun and simple. Revenge built on that but didn’t go too far with additional features. I think later versions got too fancy.
Genesis Games vs Modern Games
Modern games, like Sonic Frontiers, really take it to the next level with all the different attack moves, jumps, and power ups. But they also have the advantage of better controllers, graphics, and mechanics to keep it from getting overwhelming.
All the additions to Shinobi after Revenge just got too complicated. The double jump, spray attack, and special ninjitsu were welcome additions compared to the arcade versions. But following versions just got unnecessarily hard timing, enemies, and controls in my opinion.
To be sure all versions of this game are hard. You have to practice a lot to remember all the tough spots or how to defeat the bosses. Which is why I prefer Revenge, it was hard but not ridiculously hard. It was a game you could play on the weekends and still be good.
I’d rather pass on games that require you to commit every spare moment playing… just to be average. It takes all the fun out of playing games in the first place.
Arcade Games vs Genesis Games
Revenge of Shinobi captured everything good about the original arcade game, added to it, and let you play for free at home. Until it came out arcade games were better than home console games. The Sega Genesis and SNES represented a turning point in gaming. They were equal or surpassed most arcade games of their time.
Spending quarters for a few minutes of entertainment wasn’t as fun as spending a few hours playing Revenge of Shinobi. You could get months worth of entertainment at home out of each game, even if they initially cost more.
Conclusion: A Great Sega Genesis Game
To me, Revenge of Shinobi represents the first home console game to exceed its arcade game version. For that reason it’s one of the best Sega Genesis games and still worth playing today.
Revenge of Shinobi isn’t a game you can pop in, start playing, and finish in an hour. It takes several sessions to memorize all the levels, and figure out how to defeat all the bosses. But it’s doable if you’ve got a weekend with some free time.
Revenge of Shinobi is worth a try in my opinion. This side scroller isn’t as fast as Sonic, or as popular as Mario, but it deserves a place among the great Sega Genesis games.
Best of Sega Genesis Games: The Revenge of Shinobi brought to you by: David M.
I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.
