Press release: 2002-11-12: SEGA Releases Shinobi for the PlayStation 2; SEGA's Legendary Ninja Action Series Makes Its Triumphant Next-Generation Console Debut

This is an unaltered copy of a press release, for use as a primary source on Sega Retro. Please do not edit the contents below. Language: English Original source: The Free Library

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 12, 2002

SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today announced the release of "Shinobi(TM)" exclusively for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. The latest chapter in one of the most popular and revered video game franchises of all time, "Shinobi" delivers intense, lightening-fast gameplay, stunning 3-D graphics and a dark, tragic story of rage and revenge.

In "Shinobi" gamers have a deadly arsenal of ninja moves and weapons at their disposal, including the ability to run on walls, use ninja magic and stealth dash between enemies, allowing them to get the upper hand in even the most dire situations. The game's innovative stealth dash move allows gamers to string together breathtaking combos and confuse their enemies with a ghostly afterimage. The action culminates in dramatic samurai movie-inspired "Tate" cut scenes, where enemies literally fall to pieces.

The first new Shinobi game in more than seven years, "Shinobi" casts gamers as the ninja Hotsuma, who has defeated his brother Moritsune to become leader of the famous Oboro clan. As the leader of the Oboro, Hotsuma inherited the cursed sword Aukujiki, which feeds off the souls of his enemies. But the sword comes with a price: if Hotsuma does not feed Aukujiki, it will eat his own soul. Then, when a mysterious earthquake decimates Tokyo and an evil force turns his own clan against him, Hotsuma is forced onto a dark quest for the ultimate revenge.

"One of SEGA's greatest strengths is our staggering back catalog of blockbuster content, including seminal hits like Shinobi," said Mike Fischer, vice president, entertainment marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. "Now fans of the original Shinobi and new-school action gamers alike can experience the next chapter in this legendary action series on the PlayStation 2."

Shinobi features 16 massive levels, ranging from the Earthquake-ravaged streets of Tokyo to the rooftops of ancient temples, with nightmarish undead enemies ripped straight from Japanese folklore.

Gamers can also play "Shinobi RivalClash" online for free at www.shinobigame.com. This interactive Rock Paper Scissors-style game lets gamers join a clan and challenge hundreds of players to interactive turn-based battles online. The game features six characters from "Shinobi" and more than a dozen of their in-game animations. "Shinobi RivalClash" was created by Sega.com(TM).

"Shinobi" is rated "M" for Mature and is available at retailers nationwide for an MSRP of $49.95. For screenshots and artwork visit the SEGA FTP site at: ftp://segapr.segaamerica.com/Sega_Games/SEGA_ENTERTAINMENT.

About SEGA

SEGA(R) of America, Inc. is the American arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corp., a $3.5 billion corporation by market capitalization, recognized as a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. SEGA of America's Web site is located at www.sega.com.

About Sony Computer Entertainment

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation(R) game console and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PlayStation game console and the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
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