Naruto: Clash of Ninja (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Naruto: Clash of Ninja (2003) is a fighting game developed by Eighting and published by Bandai for the GameCube and PlayStation 2. It is the first installment in the Naruto: Clash of Ninja series, and is based on the popular anime and manga series of the same name.

The game features 8 playable characters (and 2 unlockables) from the Naruto anime, including Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, Kakashi Hatake, Rock Lee, Gaara, Neji Hyuga, and Shikamaru Nara. Each character has their own unique abilities and fighting style, and players can choose to play as either the protagonist or the antagonist.

The game’s story mode follows the events of the first season of the Naruto anime, and players must battle their way through a series of missions in order to progress. The game also features a variety of multiplayer modes, including a versus mode, a tournament mode, and a survival mode.

Naruto: Clash of Ninja was released to generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and roster of characters. However, some critics found the game to be too short and repetitive.

Gameplay

Naruto: Clash of Ninja is a 3D fighting game that uses a cel-shaded art style. The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, and players can perform a variety of basic attacks, special moves, and ultimate techniques.

The game’s combat system is based on a chakra gauge, which players must manage in order to perform special moves and ultimate techniques. Chakra is gradually replenished over time, but players can also use items to restore their chakra.

Naruto: Clash of Ninja features a variety of game modes, including:

  • Story Mode: In story mode, players follow the events of the first season of the Naruto anime. Players must battle their way through a series of missions in order to progress.
  • Versus Mode: In versus mode, players can battle against each other in either single-player or multiplayer mode.
  • Tournament Mode: In tournament mode, players can compete in a single-elimination tournament against a series of computer-controlled opponents.
  • Survival Mode: In survival mode, players must battle against an endless wave of computer-controlled opponents.

Characters

Naruto: Clash of Ninja features a roster of 8 playable characters (and 2 unlockables) from the Naruto anime. Each character has their own unique abilities and fighting style.

  • Naruto Uzumaki: Naruto is the protagonist of the Naruto series. He is a young ninja who dreams of becoming Hokage, the leader of his village. Naruto is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful ninjutsu techniques.
  • Sasuke Uchiha: Sasuke is Naruto’s rival and best friend. He is a skilled ninja who is obsessed with revenge against his older brother, Itachi. Sasuke is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of fire-based ninjutsu techniques.
  • Sakura Haruno: Sakura is a kunoichi who is in love with Sasuke. She is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of medical ninjutsu techniques.
  • Kakashi Hatake: Kakashi is a jounin who is the leader of Team 7. He is a skilled ninja who uses a variety of powerful ninjutsu techniques.
  • Rock Lee: Rock Lee is a genin who is a master of taijutsu. He is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful taijutsu techniques.
  • Gaara: Gaara is a jinchuriki who is the host of the One-Tailed Shukaku. He is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful sand-based ninjutsu techniques.
  • Neji Hyuga: Neji is a genin who is a member of the Hyuga clan. He is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful Byakugan techniques.
  • Shikamaru Nara: Shikamaru is a genin who is a member of the Nara clan. He is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful shadow-based ninjutsu techniques.
  • Jiraiya: Jiraiya is a legendary Sannin who is Naruto’s mentor. He is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful ninjutsu techniques. (Unlockable)
  • Orochimaru: Orochimaru is a legendary Sannin who is Naruto’s enemy. He is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of powerful ninjutsu techniques. (Unlockable)

Reception

Naruto: Clash of Ninja was released to generally positive reviews from critics. The game’s graphics, gameplay, and roster of characters were all praised. However, some critics found the game to be too short and repetitive.

IGN gave the game a score of 7.5 out of 10, saying “Naruto: Clash of Ninja is a solid fighting game that’s sure to please fans of the anime. The graphics are impressive, the gameplay is solid, and the roster of characters is great.”

GameSpot gave the game a score of 7 out of 10, saying “Naruto: Clash of Ninja is a fun and fast-paced fighting game that’s perfect for fans of the anime. The graphics are impressive, the gameplay is solid, and the roster of characters is great. However, the game is a bit too short and repetitive.”

Overall, Naruto: Clash of Ninja is a solid fighting game that’s sure to please fans of the Naruto anime. The game’s graphics, gameplay, and roster of characters are all top-notch. However, the game is a bit too short and repetitive.

Review Score

7/10

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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