Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is slicing its way back into the spotlight, and longtime fans of the legendary ninja Joe Musashi finally have a date to mark on their calendars—August 29, 2025. Developed by Lizardcube, the studio behind Streets of Rage 4, and published by SEGA, this long-awaited revival of the Shinobi franchise is launching across PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
This marks the franchise’s first new installment in more than a decade, and based on what we’ve seen so far, Art of Vengeance isn’t just a nostalgic throwback—it’s a full-scale reimagining that aims to modernize the Shinobi experience for a new generation of gamers.
A Classic Hero Reborn
Players will once again take up the mantle of Joe Musashi, the most iconic ninja in SEGA history. In this new chapter, Musashi returns to his homeland only to discover his village in ruins and his Oboro clan turned to stone. This tragic moment launches him on a high-stakes quest for revenge against ENE Corp, a futuristic paramilitary organization led by the cold-blooded Lord Ruse.
Despite the modern backdrop, the game retains its side-scrolling 2D action roots, now presented through a beautifully animated, hand-drawn art style reminiscent of graphic novels.
Gameplay Features and Combat Details
At its core, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a love letter to the golden age of arcade action games, but it’s packed with modern design upgrades. Players can look forward to:
- 12+ handcrafted stages: Environments range from hi-tech military compounds to blazing deserts and neon-lit metropolises.
- Weapon variety: Use the signature katana “Oborozuki”, precision-based kunai, devastating Ninjutsu, and powerful Ninpo arts.
- Exploration mechanics: Unlock secrets using Ningi tools, upgrade combat prowess with Amulets, and discover hidden routes and lore.
- Dynamic traversal: Wall runs, dashes, and acrobatic combat give players freedom to chain attacks and explore creatively.
- Animal companion: Ride your canine ally Yamato through intense battle zones—a fan-favorite addition shown off in the latest trailer.
Trailer Highlights & Visual Style
The newly released trailer offers a gripping look at the game’s tone and art direction. Fans of Streets of Rage 4 will feel at home with the bold outlines and expressive animations, but Art of Vengeance ups the ante with a darker, grittier aesthetic that leans into cyber-ninja themes. The trailer also showcases a dramatic boss battle and a fiery set-piece involving Yamato, emphasizing Lizardcube’s cinematic flair.
Editions and Pre-Order Bonuses
Two editions are now available for pre-order:
| Edition | Price | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition | $29.99 | Base game |
| Digital Deluxe Edition | $39.99 | Early Access (August 25), Ghost Outfit, Medic Lite Amulet, 2,000 Gold, Digital Art Book, Soundtrack, and SEGA Villains Stage DLC |
Pre-order Bonus for All Editions:
- 10% discount
- Original Arcade Outfit
- Fortune Hunter Amulet
Fans of SEGA’s rich legacy will appreciate the SEGA Villains Stage DLC, which features boss battles inspired by classic SEGA antagonists—adding another nostalgic layer to this modern title.
Physical Edition for Collectors
A limited physical release for Nintendo Switch is also in the works through Limited Run Games, giving collectors a chance to own a boxed edition. Pre-orders are expected to open soon.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is more than just a revival—it’s a bold return for one of SEGA’s most beloved franchises, packed with fast-paced action, gorgeous visuals, and deep reverence for its roots. With multi-platform support, smart modernizations, and a passionate dev team at the helm, this could be the breakout comeback hit of 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Shinobi: Art of Vengeance launches August 29, 2025 on all major gaming platforms including PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch.
- The game features unique hand-drawn visuals created by the team behind Streets of Rage 4.
- Pre-order bonuses include a digital art book and soundtrack for fans who purchase early.
Release Date and Availability
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is scheduled to launch on August 29, 2025. This highly anticipated 2D action platformer will be available across multiple gaming platforms simultaneously.
The game will release on current and previous generation PlayStation consoles, including both PS5 and PS4. Xbox gamers can also join the action, with versions coming to Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.
PC players will be able to purchase and download the game through Steam. Nintendo fans aren’t left out either, as a Nintendo Switch version has been confirmed for the same release date.
SEGA has announced that physical editions of the game will be available, though specific details about these versions are still forthcoming.
For collectors and enthusiasts, special editions appear to be in the works. One version mentioned in the announcements includes a Digital Art Book and Soundtrack bundle.
Pre-orders for the game are already open on various platforms. Fans interested in securing their copy early should check their preferred gaming storefront or retailer for availability.
The simultaneous multi-platform release demonstrates SEGA’s commitment to making this revival of the iconic ninja franchise accessible to as many players as possible.
Game Overview
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance revives the iconic ninja action series with a fresh 2D platformer featuring hand-drawn visuals from the creators of Streets of Rage 4. The game stars series protagonist Joe Musashi in a new adventure launching August 29, 2025.
Storyline and Setting
In Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, players follow Joe Musashi as he returns home from a previous mission only to face a new threat. The game continues the legacy of the Shinobi series while introducing a new chapter in Joe’s story as a master of ninja arts.
The setting appears to blend traditional Japanese environments with modern elements, staying true to the series’ aesthetic while updating it for current platforms. The hand-drawn art style creates a unique visual identity that distinguishes it from previous entries.
Details about specific locations and enemies remain limited, but the “vengeance” theme suggests a personal motivation driving Joe’s journey.
Gameplay Mechanics
As a 2D action platformer, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance likely maintains the series’ core mechanics of precise platforming, ninja weapons, and special abilities. Players can expect fluid combat and movement systems refined for modern consoles.
The game is developed by the team behind Streets of Rage 4, suggesting a focus on responsive controls and dynamic combat. This experience with revival projects indicates a balance between nostalgia and contemporary game design.
Key gameplay elements presumably include:
- Ninja weapons and abilities
- Platforming challenges
- Combat against various enemy types
- Boss encounters
The game will release simultaneously across multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
System Requirements
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance has specific hardware needs to run properly across different platforms. The game offers different performance experiences depending on whether you’re playing on PC or console.
PC Specifications
To play Shinobi: Art of Vengeance on Windows PC, you’ll need a 64-bit operating system. The game requires Windows 10 or newer.
For the processor, the minimum requirement is an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 or AMD Phenom II X3 720. These are older processors, suggesting the game is optimized to run on a wide range of systems.
Memory requirements are modest at 4 GB RAM minimum. This is good news for players with older systems.
The game doesn’t appear to support Mac systems based on available information.
Additional hardware specifications like graphics card requirements aren’t fully detailed in the search results. The hand-drawn art style likely contributes to the relatively accessible system requirements.
Console Performance
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance will be available across both current and previous generation consoles: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
On PlayStation systems, the game supports offline play and single-player mode. It also features Remote Play functionality for PlayStation users.
The DualSense controller‘s vibration function is supported, enhancing the gaming experience on PS5. This suggests the developers have implemented features that take advantage of current-gen hardware capabilities.
Performance differences between previous-gen (PS4, Xbox One) and current-gen (PS5, Xbox Series X|S) consoles haven’t been specifically outlined, but the game’s 2D action platformer nature should ensure smooth gameplay across all supported platforms.
Graphics and Audio
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance brings a fresh visual approach to the classic franchise while maintaining an impressive audio landscape that complements the action gameplay.
Visual Art Style
The game features a unique hand-drawn art style crafted by the talented team behind Streets of Rage 4. This artistic direction marks a bold choice that helps Shinobi stand out in today’s gaming landscape.
Each frame showcases meticulous attention to detail, with fluid animations that capture the ninja protagonist‘s agile movements. The environments blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design sensibilities.
Background elements display multiple layers of parallax scrolling, creating depth in the 2D world. Character models feature distinct silhouettes that make them easily recognizable during fast-paced combat sequences.
The visual effects for ninja abilities, including shurikens and magic attacks, use vibrant colors that pop against more subdued backgrounds. This creates visual clarity during intense action moments.
Sound Design
The audio experience in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance balances nostalgic elements with modern sound engineering techniques. Combat sounds deliver satisfying feedback with each sword slash and enemy defeat.
Environmental audio cues help players navigate through levels, with subtle directional indicators for hidden areas and approaching enemies. The game employs a dynamic mixing system that adjusts sound levels based on on-screen action.
Musical compositions blend traditional Japanese instruments with contemporary electronic elements. This creates a soundtrack that feels both authentic to the setting and energizing during gameplay.
Voice acting appears to be minimal but purposeful, with key character moments receiving professional voiceover work. Sound effects for weapons and ninja abilities have distinct audio signatures that players can quickly recognize.
Critical Game Elements
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance builds upon the iconic franchise’s legacy with several refined gameplay systems. The hand-drawn visual style complements the deep mechanics that blend traditional Shinobi action with modern design sensibilities.
Combat System
The combat in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance maintains the series’ signature fast-paced action while introducing new elements. Players will master Joe Musashi’s shuriken throwing abilities alongside close-range sword combat. The game features a contextual parry system that rewards precise timing.
Enemy encounters require strategic approaches. Different ninja types demand varying tactics – some are vulnerable to ranged attacks while others must be engaged in melee combat.
Magic abilities return with the classic fireball and lightning attacks. These special moves consume ninja magic that players collect throughout levels. The magic system includes:
- Lightning Strike: Area-of-effect damage
- Shadow Clone: Creates temporary duplicates
- Dragon Fire: Continuous flame damage
- Time Slow: Briefly slows enemies
Combo chains increase both damage and score multipliers, encouraging skilled play.
Mission Structure
Levels in Art of Vengeance follow a semi-linear design with multiple paths. Each mission features primary objectives alongside optional challenges that unlock additional rewards.
The game includes 12 main missions spread across diverse environments. Players will infiltrate enemy strongholds, navigate treacherous terrain, and face powerful bosses at mission climaxes.
Hidden areas contain collectibles that expand the game’s lore. Secret scrolls reveal backstory elements about the Oboro clan and their enemies.
Time-attack modes add replayability to completed missions. Players can revisit levels to improve their scores and completion times.
Mission difficulty scales progressively, with later stages introducing complex platforming sequences alongside intense combat scenarios.
Character Customization
Players can personalize Joe Musashi through various unlockable outfits and weapon skins. These cosmetic options don’t affect gameplay balance but allow for visual customization.
Different ninja attire references both historical Shinobi games and Japanese cultural elements. Classic outfits from previous titles can be unlocked through specific challenges.
The progression system includes skill trees that let players emphasize their preferred playstyle. Points can be allocated to enhance:
- Shuriken effectiveness
- Sword damage
- Magic regeneration
- Movement speed
Equipment loadouts can be adjusted between missions. Players select their preferred shuriken type, sword variant, and magic abilities to match upcoming challenges.
Special costume sets provide visual transformation without affecting hitboxes or movement properties.
Multiplatform Integration
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance will launch simultaneously across all major gaming platforms on August 29, 2025. Players can experience this revival of the iconic ninja franchise on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
This wide release strategy ensures that fans can enjoy the hand-drawn action platformer regardless of their preferred gaming system. The development team has worked to maintain consistent performance across all platforms while optimizing for each system’s capabilities.
PlayStation and Xbox versions will likely take advantage of enhanced controller features and higher frame rates on newer console models. The Nintendo Switch version provides the added benefit of portable play, allowing fans to take the ninja action on the go.
The PC release through Steam will support various control options, including keyboard and mouse configurations alongside controller support. Graphics settings on PC will be adjustable to accommodate different hardware specifications.
Cross-platform features have not been detailed yet, but players can expect similar content across all versions at launch. Save data compatibility between console generations (PS4 to PS5, Xbox One to Series X/S) may be included as a quality-of-life feature.
No mobile versions for iOS, iPad, or Android have been announced at this time.
Developer and Publisher Information
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is being developed under SEGA, one of gaming’s most recognizable brands. The project brings together established talent with a proven track record in revitalizing classic franchises.
About Sega
SEGA stands as one of the gaming industry’s most influential companies, with a legacy spanning decades. Founded in 1960, the company began as a slot machine business before evolving into the gaming powerhouse known today.
The publisher maintains a vast library of beloved franchises including Sonic the Hedgehog, Yakuza, Persona, and of course, Shinobi. This latest Shinobi title continues SEGA’s recent strategy of reviving classic properties for modern audiences.
SEGA’s publishing division has been increasingly active in bringing back its classic franchises with modern twists while maintaining their core appeal. The company operates globally with development studios across Japan, Europe, and North America.
Development Team
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is being created by the same development team behind Streets of Rage 4, bringing their expertise in revitalizing classic franchises to another SEGA property.
This experienced team specializes in hand-drawn art styles that merge nostalgic elements with modern game design. Their previous work on Streets of Rage 4 was widely praised for honoring the original while introducing fresh mechanics.
The development approach focuses on creating fluid 2D action platforming that captures the essence of classic Shinobi games. Their distinctive visual style gives the game a unique look that stands out in today’s gaming landscape.
The team’s proven track record with retro revivals suggests they understand how to balance nostalgia with contemporary gameplay expectations.
Additional Content and DLC
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance will offer players additional content beyond the base game when it launches August 29, 2025. According to available information, the game will feature a Starter Pack that includes the Ghost Outfit and the Medic character.
The DLC plans appear to follow a similar pattern to developer Dotemu’s previous title, Streets of Rage 4, which received post-launch content updates. The team behind Shinobi: Art of Vengeance has experience delivering quality add-on content.
Players can expect both cosmetic DLC like the Ghost Outfit and potentially gameplay-expanding content similar to what other modern revivals of classic franchises have offered. The Medic character mentioned in the Starter Pack suggests multiple playable characters might be available.
Pre-order bonuses and special editions may include exclusive content that could become available as paid DLC later. SEGA has historically supported their revival titles with substantial post-launch content.
The hand-drawn art style of the game provides opportunities for visual DLC options such as alternate character skins, weapon effects, or level variations. More details about the DLC roadmap will likely be revealed closer to the August 29 release date.
Community and Support
SEGA has built a strong network for Shinobi fans to connect and get assistance for the upcoming Art of Vengeance release. Players have multiple official and community-driven options to engage with the game and fellow fans.
Official Website and Forums
The official Shinobi: Art of Vengeance website serves as the central hub for all game-related information. Players can find detailed game descriptions, character profiles, and the latest news about the August 29 release.
The site features a comprehensive FAQ section addressing common questions about gameplay mechanics, system requirements, and pre-order bonuses.
SEGA maintains active forums where developers interact with fans, providing insights into the game’s development process. These forums also allow players to report bugs, suggest improvements, and discuss strategies.
Technical support resources are readily available through the website, with troubleshooting guides for various platforms including PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox systems.
Fan Base and Social Media
Shinobi has cultivated a dedicated fan community since its original release decades ago. The upcoming Art of Vengeance has reignited excitement across various social platforms.
The official Shinobi Twitter account regularly posts development updates, gameplay snippets, and responds to fan questions. With over 100,000 followers, it serves as a quick source for news.
Discord has become a popular gathering place for the Shinobi community. The official server hosts channels for gameplay discussions, fan art, and speedrunning strategies.
Fan-created content continues to grow on platforms like YouTube, where players share gameplay analysis, reaction videos to trailers, and speculation about the game’s storyline before its August release.
Comparative Analysis
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance enters a competitive gaming landscape with several notable rivals and unique market opportunities. The game’s positioning and comparisons to similar titles reveal important distinctions for potential buyers.
Similar Titles
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance shares gameplay elements with titles like Dreams of Another, which also features fast-paced action and character progression. Both games emphasize fluid movement and combat mechanics, though Shinobi leans more heavily into traditional ninja abilities.
Hell Is Us provides a darker, more atmospheric alternative with its emphasis on exploration and environmental storytelling. Unlike Shinobi’s more arcade-style approach, Hell Is Us focuses on deliberate, methodical gameplay.
While Borderlands 4 targets a similar August 2025 window, it differs significantly with its first-person shooting mechanics and looter elements. Shinobi offers a more focused, linear experience compared to Borderlands’ open-world design.
Market Positioning
At $29.99 USD, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance enters the market at a mid-tier price point, making it more accessible than premium-priced titles like Sonic Racing: Crossworlds ($59.99) and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii ($69.99).
The game’s multi-platform launch strategy (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series, Xbox One, Switch, and PC) maximizes its potential audience. This approach differs from Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, which initially launches as a console exclusive.
Shinobi targets nostalgic fans of the classic series while appealing to new players through modern visuals and gameplay mechanics. This balancing act distinguishes it from titles like Like a Dragon, which primarily targets its established fanbase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many players are excited about Shinobi: Art of Vengeance and want to know specific details about its release. The game is coming on August 29, 2025, with several platform options and features to consider.
What platforms will Shinobi: Art of Vengeance be available on at launch?
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance will launch simultaneously on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam on August 29, 2025.
The game has been developed to run across both current and previous generation consoles. This wide release ensures most players can experience the new Shinobi adventure regardless of their preferred gaming system.
Can players expect a physical edition release for Shinobi: Art of Vengeance?
Yes, a physical edition is planned for Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. According to the available information, while digital versions will be available on all platforms at launch, physical copies will follow soon after.
SEGA has not yet announced specific retailers or pre-order details for the physical edition. More information about collector packaging and regional availability of physical copies will likely be shared closer to the release date.
What is the genre of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, and does it incorporate Metroidvania elements?
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a 2D action platformer that continues the iconic series’ tradition. The game features a unique hand-drawn art style created by the team behind Streets of Rage 4.
While full gameplay details haven’t been completely revealed, the game appears to focus on the series’ classic action platforming roots. There has been no official confirmation about Metroidvania elements such as ability-gated exploration or an interconnected world map.
Are there any special editions or collector’s items planned for the release of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance?
No special editions or collector’s items have been officially announced for Shinobi: Art of Vengeance at this time. The standard edition is currently available for pre-order at $29.99 USD.
SEGA may reveal limited editions or collector’s packages as the release date approaches. Fans interested in potential collector’s items should follow official SEGA channels for announcements.
What are the system requirements for Shinobi: Art of Vengeance on PC?
The specific system requirements for the PC version of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance have not yet been published. Given the 2D nature of the game, it likely won’t demand high-end hardware.
Players can expect system requirements to be posted on the game’s Steam page closer to release. The hand-drawn visual style may influence optimization needs differently than 3D titles in the series.
Will Shinobi: Art of Vengeance support cross-platform play across different gaming systems?
No information has been shared about cross-platform play features for Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. The game has not been explicitly marketed with multiplayer components.
Traditional Shinobi games have primarily been single-player experiences. If the game includes multiplayer modes, details about potential cross-platform functionality would typically be announced in the months leading up to release.
