### Celebrating the Spirit of Christmas with Japanese Assassins and Point-and-Click Thrillers

In the festive spirit of Christmas, an intriguing selection of games has been nominated for the yearly RPS Advent Calendar. Among them are titles that delve into the world of Japanese assassins, as well as a captivating point-and-click thriller exploring a dark netherworld filled with torture devices. While some of these selections made it to the final calendar, others did not, prompting a need to share these hidden gems with a broader audience.

#### Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Classic Revived

**Developer:** Team Ninja
**Publisher:** Koei Tecmo
**[Available on Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3287520/NINJA_GAIDEN_2_Black/)**

This year, the Advent Calendar was packed with multiple entries from the Ninja Gaiden series, showcasing not just one, but two iterations. Among them, **Ninja Gaiden 2 Black** stands out, having received a modern remaster that revitalizes the iconic 2008 Xbox 360 title with stunning Unreal Engine 5 graphics. Despite criticisms about its dated elements—settled level design and certain portrayal of female characters—it still embodies the thrilling combat mechanics and breathtaking settings that fans adore. With no new characters to divert attention from Ryu Hayabusa’s gripping narrative, this title serves as an excellent entry point for those wanting to relive the chaos of the original.

#### Kathy Rain 2: A Thrilling Point-and-Click Experience

**Developer:** Clifftop Games
**Publisher:** Raw Fury
**[Available on Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1466390/Kathy_Rain_2_Soothsayer/)**

For fans of narrative-driven adventures, **Kathy Rain 2** offers a masterful blend of storytelling, haunting themes, and engaging puzzles. Drawing comparisons to classic titles like *Gabriel Knight*, this sequel flourishes in its character development and mature storytelling. It features a private investigator unraveling a serial killer case while simultaneously exploring deeper themes of trauma and reliance on others. With exquisite pixel art and intricate gameplay mechanisms, it sets itself apart as a pivotal game for enthusiasts longing for a revival of classic point-and-click adventure styles, even if it requires prior knowledge of its predecessor for full appreciation.

#### Shinobi: Art of Vengeance: A Retro Revival

**Developer:** Lizardcube
**Publisher:** Sega
**[Available on Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2361770/SHINOBI_Art_of_Vengeance/)**

**Shinobi: Art of Vengeance** pays homage to the beloved ninja genre with its vibrant visuals and dynamic combat system. Though it may not quite reach the heights of Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, it certainly captures the essence of retro gaming with its engaging gameplay. While some level design choices might evoke memories of classic block-pushing puzzles, the fluid combination of attacks and stunning hand-drawn artistry pulls players into a captivating world. The game channels a nostalgic yet modern take on the Shinobi franchise, urging players to engage in frenetic battles against waves of foes—each moment feeling like a living painting.

### Conclusion

This year’s nominations for the RPS Advent Calendar celebrate the rich and diverse realm of gaming, particularly focusing on the fantastic portrayals of Japanese assassins and the engrossing narratives of point-and-click thrillers. Each selected title, from the remastered action of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black to the intellectual puzzles of Kathy Rain 2 and the artistic flair of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, presents unique experiences that reflect the evolving landscape of gaming. So this holiday season, while you envision Santa donning a shinobi suit, consider diving into these immersive worlds that bring excitement and nostalgia each in their own right.