With games like Metal Gear Solid 5 and Splinter Cell, it’s easy to think of stealth games as expansive, even bombastic affairs. The proliferation of open world stealth has meant an increased interest in massive toolsets and complex level layouts. That kind of clockwork design can be incredibly thrilling, just look at Hitman World of Assassination. But even the most elaborate games cannot forget the thrill of waiting in the shadows for the right moment to strike. Mark of the Ninja Remastered is a lean stealth classic because it focuses on the fundamentals.
Mark of the Ninja builds itself up around the very basics of the best stealth games. It starts simple but gradually gives you a more robust set of tools. Its 2D structure means that there aren’t that many places to go, often given the game a puzzle-box flavor. Don’t let its back-to-basics approach fool you. Mark of the Ninja may be easy to learn, but it is hard to master.
This all works because Mark of the Ninja is gorgeous. The game’s dark shadows and blinding lights make it instantly readable. Its Saturday morning cartoon look makes it feel like a playable Batman Beyond or Jackie Chan Adventures, albeit way more violent. Its shuriken-sharp gameplay is matched by its beautiful aesthetics.
You can pick up Mark of the Ninja Remastered for $5.99 on Steam. If you already own the original game, you can pick up the remastered upgrade for $1.89. The sale ends on June 26.
If Mark of the Ninja has you craving more daring looks at classic game genres, take a look at the best indie games. If you want more high-flying thrills, our list of the best platform games has you covered.
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