Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of ChaosWii)

GameSpot editors' review

• CNET editors' rating: 3.5 stars Very good
  Detailed editors' rating
  Overall score: 7.5 (3.5 stars)

• Reviewed by:
  Austin Shau
• Reviewed on: 10/31/2007
• Released on: 10/15/2007
• Originally published on GameSpot: Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of ChaosWii) Review

The Nintendo Entertainment System was home to many mean-spirited games, and Ninja Gaiden was a prime example. It beat you down, chewed you up, and spit you out. But it also dragged you back with its fast action, sweet ninja powers, and excellent controls. Now, Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos is available for the Wii's Virtual Console and like its predecessor, you'll cry foul at the game's sadistic nature yet still find yourself clawing through the pain to conquer its insane challenge.

Ninja Gaiden II thrusts returning protagonist Ryu Hayabusa into a plot by the sinister Ashtar to unleash demons unto the world, using the titular dark sword of chaos. The talking-head cutscenes of the series return to tell the story, opening and closing each of the game's seven acts. The art is sharp and does a great job of providing visual flair to the storytelling, offsetting the frequently tedious dialogue.

Ninja Gaiden II improves upon the excellent visuals found in the original Ninja Gaiden. Some stages are draped in dynamic environments, such as one that takes place atop a speeding train, adding more life to the visuals. Granted, the NES-era technology gives way to flickering character sprites when the screen gets busy. Though by today's standards the visuals aren't anything special, the game is still nice to look at overall. The soundtrack is more consistent, with fast-paced music that keeps you energized as the game's torturous nature begins.

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