Ninja Gaiden

The game uses a side-scrolling stage format where a single player guides Ryu forward through waves of enemies. Combat centers on punches, kicks, jumping attacks, and close-range throws that can quickly neutralize targets. Ryu can cling to walls and move along them briefly, which helps with repositioning and evasion. Stages feature armed thugs, ninjas, heavier enemies, and boss encounters. Progress depends on clearing each area while managing health, spacing, and the timing of jumps and grabs against surrounding foes.

Ryu Hayabusa

The main protagonist, a skilled ninja who battles through the city and enemy strongholds using martial arts and agility.

Jaquio

The criminal mastermind and principal target behind the enemy organization Ryu is pursuing.

Avoid rushing directly into crowds. Try to funnel enemies to one side and control spacing before committing to attacks. Jump kicks and throws are effective against nearby opponents, but armed enemies are safer to approach after baiting out their strikes. Wall-climbing can help you escape pressure or reset position, though staying on a wall too long can leave you exposed. Before boss fights, preserve as much health as possible and learn each boss's attack rhythm to find reliable punish windows.

Tips and tricks

• Throws are very useful at close range and can interrupt enemy pressure.
• Use walls to reposition, not as a place to camp indefinitely.
• Against weapon users, bait the attack first and then move in.