5/5 ★ – Supergamerguy's review of Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master.

I REFUSE to believe this game was released in 1993 for the Sega Genesis. It's just not possible, not with a game like Revenge of Shinobi being released a mere 3 years earlier (for the same console). Shinobi III is leaps and bounds above most of the Shinobi titles that came before or after its release. First off, Shinobi III plays like a lovingly-crafted indie game released in the modern era, and it looks like one too! The gameplay is the tightest it has ever been in the series, with a plethora of offensive moves and dodges in your arsenal. This pairs well with the inventive and challenging level design, encouraging the player to look at new ways of getting past each challenge. The graphics are also outstanding for the Genesis, especially in 1993! The sprites are large (with lots of little details), and the environments are immersive, as well as distinct from one another. Backgrounds are also constantly in motion, truly convincing the player that they've entered an enemy stronghold or dangerous forest. The music is just the cherry on top, with a fresh, energetic tune for every area (sometimes even separate sections within a level). All of this considered, Shinobi III is easily one of the best games on the Sega Genesis, and anyone looking to call themselves a retro gamer has to give it a playthrough.