Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Revives Sega’s Classic Ninja Action

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, revived by Sega, offers a modern take on arcade action. Developed by Lizardcube, the game stars Joe Musashi on a quest for vengeance. Fans can preorder the game for digital release at $29.99, with a special edition also available.

Shinobi Returns with a Modern Twist

Unveiled during the PlayStation State of Play stream, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance marks the return of Sega’s long-running arcade franchise. The first footage showcases fast-paced action and a stunning new art direction for the 2D action platformer.

The last Shinobi game launched in 2011 for the 3DS, receiving mixed reviews from critics and fans, leading to a lengthy hiatus. The franchise’s comeback was first teased during the 2023 Game Awards, when Sega confirmed several classic IP revivals, including Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, Streets of Rage, and Shinobi. Now, Sega has provided fans with an in-depth look at Shinobi: Art of Vengeance.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance – Gameplay and Features

Developed in collaboration with Lizardcube, the team behind Streets of Rage 4, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a 2D action platform game launching on August 29, 2025, across Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One. The game features a striking new art style, blending modern visuals with the franchise’s arcade roots. Players will once again step into the role of Joe Musashi, who embarks on a quest for vengeance after discovering his village in ruins. The game includes over a dozen environments to explore, filled with intense ninja combat and platforming challenges.

Preorder and Special Edition Details

Fans can preorder Shinobi: Art of Vengeance digitally for $29.99. While no physical release has been confirmed, a special edition priced at $39.99 offers additional content:

• Base Game
• Early Access
• Starter Pack (Includes the Ghost Outfit, the Medic Lite Amulet, and In-Game Currency for upgrades)
• Digital Art Book & Soundtrack
• Sega Villains Stage (Coming in early 2026, featuring iconic bosses from Sega’s classic franchises)

Shinobi Expands Beyond Gaming

The return of Shinobi after 14 years is exciting for fans, but Sega has even bigger plans. Following the massive box office success of the Sonic the Hedgehog movies, Shinobi is next in line for a Hollywood adaptation, with a film currently in early development.

A Thrilling Year for Ninja Fans

The release of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance adds to an already exciting year for ninja-themed games. Last month, Team Ninja surprise-launched Ninja Gaiden 2: Black on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles, confirming that Ninja Gaiden 4 is in development. Meanwhile, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, is slated for a March release, featuring dual protagonists—a samurai and a stealthy ninja.

With Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Sega is bringing back one of its most iconic action franchises, ensuring both longtime fans and new players can experience the thrill of ninja combat once again.