Arcade Archives 2 NINJA EMAKI brings the 1986 Nichibutsu arcade shooter to modern platforms including Xbox Series and PC. Players control the young hero Shinbei in an overhead action shooter set against an evil spirit army, with the goal of rescuing a princess. The title uses the original Japanese ROM and features multiple language support for menus and instructions.
Gameplay
Control centers on movement and shooting in a run-and-gun style across varied stages filled with enemy spirits and obstacles. Shinbei starts with basic attacks and collects scrolls that unlock one of eight distinct ninja magic abilities. These powers provide temporary advantages such as enhanced attacks or defensive effects, and selecting when to activate them shapes progress through each area. The game supports one or two players in local co-op, with a life system that allows limited hits before continuing from checkpoints. Settings for difficulty, screen display, and input options allow adjustments to match personal preference or replicate the original arcade cabinet feel.
Game Modes
Four distinct modes structure play sessions. Original Mode delivers the standard arcade experience with full progression and scoring. Hi Score Mode focuses on achieving the highest possible points across attempts. Caravan Mode limits play to a fixed time window to encourage high scores within constraints. Time Attack Mode, added in this Arcade Archives 2 release, challenges players to complete the game in the shortest time possible independent of score. Online leaderboards track performance across all modes for global competition.
Additional Features
Convenience tools include a rewind function for correcting mistakes, rapid-fire options, and multiple save slots for preserving progress. Variable Refresh Rate support improves visual stability and responsiveness on compatible displays. These elements preserve the core arcade loop while adding modern accessibility without altering the original mechanics or level design.
Is It Worth Playing?
This release suits players who enjoy classic overhead shooters and precise score chasing. The faithful reproduction of the 1986 original, combined with the expanded mode selection and quality-of-life additions, provides clear value for fans of the genre. Those seeking quick sessions or competitive time trials will find dedicated options that reward repeated play. Availability on current platforms with online rankings extends its appeal beyond single sessions.
