The Naruto universe , created by Masashi Kishimoto, has influenced a generation of fans. Its influence has extended far beyond the manga and anime, with a multitude of iconic video games. Among them, several retro titles have made a lasting impression on players on legendary consoles. Here's a retrospective of the best retro Naruto games , analyzing their gameplay and their faithfulness to the original work.
1. Naruto: Ninja Council (Game Boy Advance - 2003)
Naruto: Ninja Council is one of the first Naruto games to be released in the West. This action-platformer allows players to play as Naruto or Sasuke in missions inspired by the first part of the manga.
- Gameplay : The game features fast-paced combat, iconic moves like the Rasengan and Chidori , and realistic levels reminiscent of the manga universe.
- Faithfulness to the work : Although simplified, the game respects the key scenes and dialogues from the beginning of the manga.
2. Naruto: Clash of Ninja (Nintendo GameCube - 2003)
Released exclusively on GameCube, Naruto: Clash of Ninja is a 3D fighting game renowned for its fast-paced gameplay and graphics faithful to the anime design.
- Gameplay : The game offers an accessible yet technical combat system, with iconic special techniques and faithfully modeled characters.
- Fidelity to the work : The cel-shaded visual style, faithful animations and official voice actors reinforce immersion.
3. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja (PlayStation 2 - 2003)
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja is one of the most popular fighting games in the franchise. With a wide variety of characters and iconic arenas, it has won over fans.
- Gameplay : This game features a dynamic 2.5D combat system, incorporating secret techniques and animations directly inspired by the anime.
- Faithfulness to the work : The ultimate techniques are faithful to the iconic scenes of the story, reinforcing the spectacular side.
4. Naruto RPG: Uketsugareshi Hi no Ishi (Game Boy Advance - 2004)
This opus, only released in Japan, is a turn-based RPG that offers an original gaming experience for Naruto fans .
- Gameplay : The focus is on exploration and strategic combat. The game allows you to build a team of ninjas and develop specific skills.
- Faithfulness to the work : Although the story is original, it fits perfectly into the manga universe.
5. Naruto: Path of the Ninja (Nintendo DS - 2007)
This RPG is a direct adaptation of Naruto's early adventures. Its storyline faithfully follows the key events of the manga.
- Gameplay : The turn-based combat system allows for strategic use of ninja techniques and team mates.
- Faithfulness to the work : The plot faithfully follows the beginnings of the manga, reinforcing the narrative immersion.
6. Naruto: Battle Stadium DON (PlayStation 2 - 2006)
This fighting game crosses the universes of Dragon Ball , One Piece and Naruto , offering frenetic gameplay where Naruto fans can face off against Goku or Luffy.
- Gameplay : Dynamic and focused on fast-paced clashes, it allows you to play intense multiplayer battles.
- Faithfulness to the work : Although mixing several licenses, the characters of Naruto are faithfully transcribed with their emblematic techniques.
Conclusion
Retro Naruto games have won over fans thanks to their loyalty to the manga universe and their immersive gameplay. Whether you're a fan of fighting games, RPGs, or platformers, these titles will immerse you in the nostalgic adventures of the orange ninja. For Naruto collectors and enthusiasts , these games are must-haves for retro gaming.
