Xbox Game Pass for the Xbox One is an incredible platform that gives members access to so many great games. They’re updated quite frequently as well, so after playing through the lot, you can find some new offerings later in the month. A wave of new titles are being added this week. One of these is the iconic Ninja Gaiden 2 by Team Ninja. It’s an amazing hack and slash experience that can be yours for a low monthly charge, in addition to some other stellar games.
Ninja Gaiden 2 made its debut back in 2008 on the Xbox 360. At the time, it was beloved for its addicting — albeit difficult — combat. If you were ready to suffer disappointment time and time again, you could slowly work your way through the game’s difficult sections and bosses. That’s a good way to describe most of the Ninja Gaiden games, to be honest. Your tireless efforts will pay off at some point or you’ll go down swinging.
The sequel was different compared to the original for the fact that it had a limb dismemberment system. At the time, it was pretty graphic. That’s why so many have grown to love the series over the years. The developer wasn’t afraid to really go for it in the violence department. Slicing your way through enemies made you realize the gravity of each combat scenario.
Even crazier is the fact that enemies don’t instantly die if you take off a particular limb. You’ll only weaken them and will still have to follow up with a lethal blow. As you progress through the game, you’ll have the chance to collect essence. It’s like an energy system that enables you to fill up important meters relating to your ki and health.
There are a total of 14 stages you’ll have the pleasure of getting past as Ryu Hayabusa. Each one is beautiful detailed and incrementally challenging. As mentioned earlier, certain boss sections are quite difficult. It will take a lot of skill and sometimes pure luck to get past select opponents. That challenge will have you hungry to be successful, though.
Ninja Gaiden 2 often is considered one of the better installments in the series. For a sequel, it really hits all of the right notes and is a stellar addition to the Xbox Game Pass lineup. Keep a look out for it on February 20. That’s just a couple of days away to experience the intense ninja mayhem.
