Naruto Shippūden: Ryujinki (Import Review)

Game: Naruto Shippuden: Ryujinki
Genre: Action-Adventure/Fighting Game
Developer(s): Takara Tomy
Publisher(s): Takara Tomy
Release Date: November 26, 2009 (JPN)
CERO Rating: A (All Ages)
System(s): Nintendo Wii



Here's a game for those looking for Japanese Imports for the holiday season and this is one you might wanna pass. Naruto Shippuden: Ryujinki is a new game for the Wii that was released in Japan on November 26, 2009 and this game is celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Naruto series. This game takes a different leap from the previous Fighting Game Naruto series, Clash of Ninja and then developed a free-roaming hack-and-slash video game. Graphics and Design look quite similar to the Clash of Ninja games, and even reuses several character models. All characters receive detailed, new outfits that are based on their normal attire.



The story is loosely based on the Hunt for Itachi arc, although Jiraiya does not fight Pain, who does not appear. Naruto's half of the story revolves around attempting to stop Kuroma from unleashing the powers of five powerful dragons on the world with the help of a young girl named Akari, who gives Naruto the Dragon Sword to fight. Sasuke, on the other hand, has already formed Hebi by the time the story begins, in order to hunt down and kill Itachi.

However, his efforts are hindered by Akatsuki's attempts to capture the dragons that Kuroma has summoned for their own purposes. Throughout the story, the player either plays as Naruto or Sasuke along their journey, utilizing their respective blades and team members' abilities to fight through various levels. Other characters make an appearance as well such as Sakura, Kakashi, Shikamaru, Neji and a few more in the Naruto Series.



The Gameplay reminds me of playing The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time just with Naruto characters and many many MANY flaws involved into this game as in Very frequent annoying load times, various slowdowns when 2 or more enemies are on the screen, the controls get repetitive after a while and the Camera angles are pretty awful.

I expected alot more with this title since it was supposed to an Action Adventure Beat 'em up game but my hopes on this game was a major lost.

Rating: 2 out of 5

Trailer + Gameplay: