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While the concept of a 3D action title on the underpowered DS seems a bit mind-boggling, the developers have made it happen with some clever use of pre rendered backgrounds. Coupled with well animated 3D character models, Dragon Sword is one of the most visually impressive handheld action games available. Soundtrack wise, the game features plenty of great tracks that fit the levels. Although there is little voice work featured and most of the story is displayed in text accompanied by comic book panels.

The Ninja Gaiden series has always been known for it’s fast paced action and punishing difficulty. Both these features have made it into Dragon Sword, although everything is streamlined this time around. Almost all of the controls have been mapped to the touch screen, with all face buttons used to block enemy attacks. Running, throwing shurikans, sword slashes and magic attacks all work great on the DS and are easy to execute.

Once adjusted to the new control scheme, you’ll come to appreciate the exceptional design. There isn’t much that can top cutting through drones of fiends with your katana, and that’s a good thing because the game is heavy on the action. Bland level layouts and simplistic puzzles break up fights, but feel like an afterthought compared to the combat. Even the giant boss battles feel on the easy side, but they are still more than capable of sending you to the game over screen if you’re not careful.

In terms of length, Ninja Gaiden comes up as a rather short game only lasting 5-6 hours. Sadly, this is a strictly linear experience with no branching paths or extras to the story. To increase replay value, the developers have thrown in additional game modes, multiple difficulty levels and online scoreboards. The package still comes up small, but is still sufficient enough to please its audience.

Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword is definitely worth a look for fans of the series or fans of action games in general. Its unique approach and design make it hard to top and it leaves gamers wanting for more.

Platform reviewed: Nintendo DS

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