While Spark Unlimited’s Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z has plenty to draw us in – mutant zombies and a cyborg ninja rendered in sharp cel-shaded detail – it some how felt as though it was missing that unique hook to truly grab us and never let go. Until Tecmo Koei revealed a new trailer for the bonus ‘Ninja Gaiden Z’ mode, which looks to pay homage to the original side-scrolling Ninja Gaiden games. Check it out above (and admire the ol’ 8 bit cut-scenes as well).
Ninja Gaiden Z will feature the game’s signature 3D art-style, but is relegated to a 2D perspective. It also implements the difficulty of the old-school titles, so don’t be surprised if you have yours handed to you on the first playthrough. The mode will unlock once you finish the original campaign.
Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z releases on PS3, Xbox 360 and PC on February 28th 2014 in Europe and on March 4th 2014 in North America. Has this new retro mode motivated you to give it a shot? Let us know below.