NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM 4

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 is a fun arena style fighting game where you play through the last arc of the story: the final war against the major antagonists, Obito and Madara. With an amazing roster of playable characters, awesome special attacks, and a battle system improved, the game is slightly above its predecessors.

Ninja Storm 4 features a wonderfully told backstory, so if you are novice Naruto Shippuden gamer, you will have a chance to see how the main characters have come to be where they are now. Their backstories are told via linear branches, which progress the story from the viewpoint of certain characters.

Graphics 5/5

Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 has an amazing 3D art style with great looking fights and utscenes. The game is beautiful and eye-catching, which keeps you engaged through the entire story.

The visuals are vibrant, with loads of color splashed about the battles especially when a special combo is enacted. The stunning graphics and a huge roster of over 100 playable characters make the game extremely fun and enjoyable.

Gameplay 4,5/5

The gameplay is fun and engaging. In order to progress, you have to take control of one or more characters and prevail in the battles through the game. Completing each chapter, you will open new special equipment and currency called Ryo. The amount of Ryo you earn will depend on how well you perform.

Split paths of the characters make the story easier to follow for novice gamers if they choose to stick it out. They show how certain events, while separate, are either concurrent with each other, or significant. For example, the beginning of the story mode has Sasuke learning about his brother’s past, while Naruto learns about Obito’s past. Sasuke, Itachi, and Obito are all disgraced ninja who had to leave their village for various reasons. Although the manga had a different sequence of events, it was a nice touch to have this artistic direction to make everything packaged together.

Controls 4,5/5

Although each character has a unique set of skills they use in battle, many of the button combinations are similar. So, in the end, you will likely find yourself button-mashing the same attack button.

As a result, many battles have a familiar feel. However, there is enough variation in the battles to keep the gameplay reasonably fresh. And the storytelling within the battles also keeps the combat interesting. Besides, the fact that opponents behave differently also provides a change of scenery.

Replay Value 5/5

Apart from the Story Mode, Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 comes with a plethora of game modes. The Adventure Mode allows you to replay various sections of the Story mode, where you can improve the initial performance and gain the better quality “loot.” Plus, there is a fun Free Battle mode, which gives you a chance to perfect your skills.

If AI competition bores you eventually, there is always the opportunity to jump online and test your skills against other gamers.

In-game purchases

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 costs $29,99. In addition, you can purchase a Shikamaru’s Tale Extra Scenario Pack for $9,99 or Road to Boruto Expansion for $19,99.

Conclusion

Overall, Ultimate Ninja Storm is one of the best fighting games with an excellent combo system. The story is engaging, has no loose ends, and is a great end to the tale of Naruto. In addition, the inclusion of various modes, as well as the ranking and collecting systems, ensure the game's longevity.

The great voice acting and anime visuals complete the story amazingly well. And the game has enough game modes to keep you interested.

Given that, Ninja Storm 4 is a gem and worth picking up, even if you are not an anime fan.

• Graphics 5
• Gameplay 4.5
• Controls 4.5
• Replay Value 5

Pros

Plenty of game modes;
Wonderfully told story;
Beautiful graphics.

Cons

Combat sometimes feels repetitive.