Koei Tecmo

Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword Koei Tecmo

Ninja Gaiden has moved to the realm of the portables with Dragon Sword, the first Ninja Gaiden title on DS.

Dragon Sword leaves behind the button-mashing controls of console versions, instead relying on the DSs touch screen the control the action. All of Ryus movement and attacks are performed using the DS stylus and touch screen. Players can slash across an enemy on screen to throw Ryu into a sword attack, while tapping on the screen throws a ninja star. More complex moves become available as the game progresses.

The DS is held on its side during gameplay, and the left screen is used to display statistics and a detailed map. Both screens work together during cutscenes to produce impressive dual storytelling. The 3D visuals during gameplay are some of the best seen on DS so far.

Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword is a prime example that the DS is more than capable of producing the kind of visceral, graphically impressive games that many gamers expect from higher end handhelds. It continues the Nina Gaiden saga well and creates a unique gameplay shift for Gaiden fans.