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After nearly 11 years and over 10 million copies sold worldwide, the Naruto: Ultimate Ninja series stands as a testament to the successful adaptation of a popular manga into a video game franchise. With engaging gameplay, impressive graphics, and a faithful representation of the Naruto universe, each new installment has been met with anticipation and positive fan reception. However, recent entries have begun to stagnate, lacking significant innovation. CyberConnect2, recognizing this, developed Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution with numerous enhancements, hoping to deliver a fresh experience. Does Revolution truly live up to its name?

Engaging and Diverse Gameplay

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution offers fast-paced, dramatic battles filled with surprises. With a roster of 118 characters, each boasting unique jutsu and fighting styles, players can tailor their combat approach. For close-range combat, swift ninjas like Minato (the Fourth Hokage) or Yugito Nii (the Two-Tails jinchuriki) excel. Ranged fighters like Deidara or Temari provide powerful long-distance attacks.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution gameplay screenshot showing characters in mid-battle.

Furthermore, team battles allow players to select two support characters. These characters don’t directly participate but can be summoned to unleash jutsu, providing offensive support or defensive aid. Choosing the right support pair becomes a crucial strategic element, as each character’s support abilities differ.

With a roster of 118 characters, each boasting unique jutsu and fighting styles, Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution allows players to tailor their combat approach.

Revolution features a variety of game modes. “Free Battles” alone offers five options. “VS Battles” provides traditional 1v1 combat, while “League” and “Tournament” enable participation in round-robin or single-elimination tournaments against AI or friends. “Survival” mode presents challenging trials, and “Online Battles” pits players against each other online. With improved AI, battles are more engaging and demanding.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution gameplay screenshot showcasing the dynamic combat system.

The Ninja World Tournament

A brand new game mode, “Ninja World Tournament,” introduces a unique gameplay experience. Unlike traditional 1v1 fights, players engage in four-player free-for-all battles on a large arena.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution gameplay screenshot displaying the Ninja World Tournament mode.

Unlike traditional 1v1 fights, players engage in four-player free-for-all battles on a large arena.

Starting with 1000 Battle Orbs, the objective is to defeat opponents and collect their orbs. Navigating the chaotic battlefield requires skillful offense and defense. Environmental hazards, like exploding bombs, and disruptive ninja intrusions add further complexity. Strategically using these elements can lead to victory.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot showcasing the four-player battles in Ninja World Tournament.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot showing characters battling in the Ninja World Tournament.

Exciting New Features

Beyond the “Ninja World Tournament,” Revolution introduces numerous gameplay changes. The “Counter-attack” mechanic, costing 25% of the Chakra gauge, allows players to counter enemy attacks and stun them, creating an opening for a counter-offensive. “Guard Break” helps overcome defensive opponents, intensifying battles, especially in the final moments.

Beyond the “Ninja World Tournament,” Revolution introduces numerous gameplay changes.

The combat system is revamped with three fighting styles: Ultimate Jutsu, Awakening, and Drive. Awakening transforms characters, granting them new powers and jutsu. Drive enhances offense and defense with support character assistance. Ultimate Jutsu unleashes devastating attacks. Each style offers unique advantages and disadvantages, requiring strategic choices.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot displaying a character's special attack.

The Network Clone system allows players to create and customize a character, equipping them with collected items. This clone is then sent to participate in other players’ “World Ninja Tournament” online, earning experience and rewards.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot showcasing dynamic combat between characters.

A Short Story Mode

Those eager to continue the main storyline will be disappointed. “Ninja Escapades” offers only three short side stories: the formation of the Akatsuki, the friendship between Shisui and Itachi, and Kushina’s tale. These are told through 50 minutes of animation and a mere seven battles. Unlocking Mecha-Naruto’s story requires completing the “Ninja World Tournament.” While emotionally resonant, it’s too brief.

Those eager to continue the main storyline will be disappointed.

Furthermore, the game lacks any recap of previous events, making it difficult for newcomers to understand the context.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot depicting a cinematic moment from the game.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot showing a character performing a powerful jutsu.

Some Shortcomings

While the three fighting styles aim for balance, Drive Type often feels superior. The pre-match choice between Ultimate Jutsu and Awakening limits in-battle options. Frequent loading screens also disrupt the flow.

While the three fighting styles aim for balance, Drive Type often feels superior.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot displaying a dynamic scene with multiple characters.

alt text: Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution screenshot showing a close-up of a character's face during a battle.

Conclusion

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution introduces exciting new features, like the “Ninja World Tournament” and revamped combat mechanics. However, the short story mode and some gameplay imbalances prevent it from being a true revolution. Despite these flaws, the diverse roster, engaging combat, and variety of game modes still offer a compelling experience for Naruto fans.