Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2

The Ultimate Version of "Ninja Gaiden II".

If you're an action fan and have a Sony PlayStation 3, then you owe to yourself to pick up this nifty revamp of the ultraviolent XBOX 360 title "Ninja Gaiden II'. If you've ever played it before, the first thing you'll notice is the omission of gore. In that game, blood sprayed continously as master ninja Ryu Hayabusa shredded up his enemies into bloody chunks using all sorts of wicked weapons. Beheadings and severed limbs are still a casual sight, but the gore has been replaced with a lame blue smoke. There is some blood that still appears, but it's of the 'T' rated nature. I found this version's 'M' rating to be quite questionable. Maybe it's really because of the constant killing, I dunno. However, the other changes to the game are for the better. Numerous improvements and additions have been made including online battles, but I'll get to that later.

Let me first say, that If you love hack ' slash titles, than you'll have a grand time with "Sigma 2". It's not innovative in the least, but it's up there with "Devil May Cry" and "God of War" when it comes to action. In addition to all the demonic monsters, you'll fight commandos, mechs, ninjas, dragons and more. You can mix up normal and heavy attacks with button combinations. And your weapons are right out of "Soul Calibur", they include the Dragon Sword, twin katanas, tonfu sticks, a staff, Wolverine-like claws and a Scythe presumably stolen from the Grim Reaper (amongst others). Each can be upgraded as you progress in the game. You can also use shurikens, a bow and arrow and a giant cannon to whittle away the enemies health. There is also magic attacks that can be utilized when the action gets too hot.

The biggest addition is online where you and a fellow ninja can play cooperatively. You'll team up in 30 different arenas to fight a constant onslaught of enemies. Many conclude with boss fight. Before each game begins, you can choose your character, costume and weapons. At the end, you'll be given your statistics and the option to save a recorded film of the fight. In fact, when you beat the single player game, you'll be given the option to play each level individually and have the same option to record. You can upload and download recorded fights on the internet. Other additions includes more detailed graphical textures, an improved camera, re-designed levels, additional bosses, an extra weapon, no slowdown, a better upgrade system and three new chapters where you control three other female warriors. They are "Ninja Gaiden" veterans Momiji, Ayane and the buxom blonde Rachel (the hottest video game babe ever). A while there are no longer "Tests of Valor" and less bad guys on screen at a time, the enemy A.I. has been amped up considerably. They dodge and weave player's attacks more so than their 360 counterparts. The game offers five difficulty levels, so you could spend lots of time mastering your inner ninja.

The new cutscenes which introduce the new bosses, levels and sections are very well done and add to the excitement of the game. If you love the of "The Matrix" and "Metal Gear Solid"/"Devil May Cry" cutscenes, then you'll be at home with "Sigma 2"s cinematics. However, the story is still one-dimensional, so don't expect a Krato's-like tale. Overall, it is one of the best action games you'll ever play on the PS3. If you can't wait for "God of War III", than "Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2" will seriously whet your appetite.