To truly understand Ninja Blade is akin to grasping the concept of a Japanese gameshow. It is garish, nonsensical, over-the-top goofiness. Most sites and publications have dismissed it as mediocre at best. However, if one looks below the tacky facade, they might just find a hidden treasure. So let's get to it, shall we?

Ninja Blade isreally a no-holds-barred hack and slash with extremely rudimentary RPG elements. You can upgrade your weapons. That's about it. There is a great deal of character customization ranging from color palettes to creating a ridiculous fashion abomination.

Combat is simple but satisfying. I find the different weapons to have distinct heft and feel to them, and the combos flow fairly effortlessly. The set piece boss battles are impressive, and I enjoy their scale.

Now for the criticisms. If you despise QTE, then for the love of all that's holy, DO NOT PICK UP THIS GAME!! I enjoy QTE's, but it is over the top (seriously, about 50% of the action is QTE based).

Now, the biggest complaint. Ninja Blade's save system is absolutely infuriating. There are ZERO, I repeat ZERO true save points during a stage. Don't even attempt to go through a level unless you have a good hour to set aside.

Overall, however, its a fun action romp worth a rental. Just be sure to check your brain at the door.

My score: 7.0