**Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound – A Nostalgic Revival of Classic Action**

The RPS Advent Calendar 2025 has commenced, unveiling a selection of standout games, with Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound by The Game Kitchen emerging as a highlight. This title breathes new life into the beloved franchise, capturing the spirit of the classic 2D action platformers that shaped gaming in the 1990s.

### A Nostalgic Reimagining

Ragebound is not just a continuation; it’s a heartfelt homage to its predecessors. The game opens with a prologue featuring Ryu’s father, a nod to the original Ninja Gaiden’s lore. Players are reintroduced to familiar foes, including the memorable Pumpkin Head—a gourd-like enemy from the original series—who serves as the first obstacle for the new hero, Kenji. His design, reminiscent of Ryu Hayabusa’s iconic blue attire, instantly evokes nostalgia for veterans of the franchise.

### Pure Action Focus

What sets Ragebound apart in 2025 is its commitment to pure, unadulterated action. The Game Kitchen, known for their work on the Metroidvania title Blasphemous, has intentionally sidestepped the temptation to include excessive exploration elements. Instead, Ragebound features over 20 meticulously designed levels focused exclusively on platforming and combat, eliminating the need for cumbersome map navigation. This design philosophy offers players a straightforward path lined with challenging enemies and exhilarating gameplay.

### Dynamic Duo: Kenji and Kumori

Ragebound introduces a dual-character mechanic that enriches the gameplay. Players control Kenji, a melee-focused warrior, while also managing Kumori, a kunoichi who aids in ranged attacks and puzzle-solving by manipulating the game’s environment. This synergy between characters becomes essential as players navigate various challenges, each requiring the strategic use of both warriors to defeat enemies imbued with different energy types.

### Mastering the Mechanics

As players progress, they will find themselves engaged in a rhythm of combat that rewards skilled play and quick reflexes. The game’s system encourages players to chain together attacks and utilize character-switching effectively to conquer enemies, which are categorized by their color-coded energy. Successfully managing these dynamics allows players to build their Rage Meter, unlocking powerful screen-clearing abilities as they achieve high rankings.

### A Thrill for Speedrunners

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound not only caters to casual gamers but also to the thriving speedrunning community. Its design, reminiscent of the original NES games, offers a familiar arena for those seeking to master level completions at breakneck speeds. The balance of challenge and accessibility makes it a perfect title for both nostalgic fans and new players alike.

### Conclusion

While Ninja Gaiden 4 may garner more attention as the franchise’s latest installment, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound stands out as a remarkable tribute to its roots. By merging nostalgia with innovative gameplay, The Game Kitchen has crafted a title that resonates deeply with gamers, making it a deserving contender for the title of top ninja game of 2025. Through a blend of classic elements and fresh mechanics, Ragebound not only revives a beloved series but redefines what it means to be a ninja in the modern gaming landscape.