49. Ninja Gaiden Black (XBOX)

Why on the list?
- Easily one of the best action/adventures of last gen, Ninja Gaiden revived an ancient NES franchise thought dead and managed to once again become top of its genre. Not a small achiement of Tecmo. Prince of Persia is the only other franchise I know that has pulled a similar trick.
- Superb gameplay, graphics and audio.
- This is one of the most difficult games of the last few years. You could say that's a weakness (the game isn't accessible for everyone), but I think it's great to have a harder experience in a time where games are getting easier and easier.
- I chose for Black because it's basically the director's cut of the original Xbox Ninja Gaiden, with added missions, weapons, 2 new difficulty settings and an expanded storyline, making the already brilliant game even better.
- Ninjas are cool

- I had to choose between this and Devil May Cry (PS2), but I think NG is slightly better. Sorry Dante

Why not higher?
- No specific reason. I've always prefered the setting of the God of War series *hint hint*, but that's just personal.
- Ryu is no Dante or Kratos.