Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2

Since the early 2000s and the smash success of the sixth generation Dragonball-Z titles, there has been a real market for anime fighting games. With the genre growing in popularity and quality since the first real smash hit Dragonball Z: Budokai. So it’s hardly a surprise that the Naruto anime series began throwing its hat into the ring too. Offering the ultimate Ninja series to avid fans. Though, we specifically cast our eyes to the second instalment, Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2.

For those wondering what to expect going into this classic anime beat-em-up. This one plays like more open-plan fighting games like Dragonball Budokai Tenchu or the more recent title Jump Force. Though still has a lot of the same tight controls that are present in side view fighting games such as Tekken, Injustice 2 or Mortal Kombat, with the combat even having a reminiscent style the closer the combat becomes.

A part of the action

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 is divided equally in its focus. Half of the title focuses on tight controls and balanced fighting mechanics. Whilst the other half is focused on adventure and offering an authentic world and storyline that is not only canon to the anime but also fleshes out the story with new events and characters. Giving fans more of the show they love.

Though, even if you aren’t a fan, the storyline is fun and engaging regardless. Plus, it offers more than enough exposition to give players all they need to follow the plot. The plot follows the narrative surrounding Naruto and Sasuke within the anime and stays true to the source material while keeping it feeling fresh with subtle changes and interesting subplots. On occasion, these can sometimes feel forced to pair two characters off against one and other but you can forgive this in a pinch.

An Art style Like Fine Wine

One thing that stands out above all else within this title is the art style Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 was produced back in 2010 and despite this, if this were released in present days gaming landscape it would still look more than respectable. The developers have clearly taken a great deal of time to create a truly authentic Naruto experience and have captured the ambience of each region and unique area perfectly. This is only complimented by the exquisite voice acting and general sound design.

A slow Burner

The mechanics are at first glance, as basic as anything you’ll see in a fighting title. With only a handful of functions available to players such as dodging, jumping and short or long-range attacks. Rather similar to older, more primitive fighters such as street fighter for example. Though as you fight, put together combos and gather more chakra, you can start dealing out signature moves, move at greater speeds and use unique tactics to give you the edge over your opponent.

This allows for a fight that starts slow and builds in intensity. There is nothing more frustrating than games and movie storylines that start at full throttle and have no way to up the ante. Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 doesn’t fall into this trap, providing a refined, well-paced and balanced fighting experience.

Pros

• Outstanding visuals
• Fleshes out anime’s story
• Progressively intense fight style
• Great sound quality

Cons

• Fights can sometimes seem forced from a plot perspective