Like a ninja suddenly appearing when foes least expect it, Sega has dropped a free demo for its upcoming 2D platformer, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, giving a tease of its high-octane side-scrolling action ahead of the game’s launch on 29 August.
The demo, which was released alongside two new trailers, will give players a glimpse of its full release by offering a demo-exclusive version of its tutorial stage, Oboro Village, including notable changes that differ from its full release, like tougher foes to encounter and adjustments made to its shop system that allows players to experiment with different skills and combos early, alongside a ton of hidden secrets to discover, including a challenging trial that will test a player’s platforming mettle.
Alongside the tutorial stage, an Arcade Mode will also be available in the demo, allowing players to replay the stage to chase high scores, with additional point multipliers and challenges like completing it without taking damage, using Ninjutsu skills or assists.
Additionally, a special game-themed filter is also available on TikTok in celebration of its imminent launch, letting users express themselves with a mini-game of sorts, where they time their facial expressions to match descriptions on the screen to fill up a gauge and gain a high score. To find the filter, simply scroll to any available filter, click on “view all effects”, then type Shinobi Execution in the search box.
Co-developed by Lizardcube, the team behind the 2020 brawler Streets of Rage 4, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance marks a revival of the classic ninja franchise after 14 years, bringing to life its protagonist Joe Musashi’s quest for revenge with a slick hand-drawn 2D action platformer with an emphasis on speedy, precise combat and challenging platforming. Momentum is the name of the game here, as players are encouraged to plan their moves in combat tactically, keeping the flow going with combos and Ninpo skills while avoiding getting hit.
The demo for Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is now available on the PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch and PC, with its full release arriving on 29 August 2025.
Kevin is a reformed PC Master Race gamer with a penchant for franchise “duds” like Darksiders III and Dead Space 3. He has made it his life-long mission to play every single major game release – lest his wallet dies trying.
