Difference between revisions of "Alex Kidd in Shinobi World"

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{{Bob
 
{{Bob
| bobscreen=Alex_Kidd_in_Shinobi_World_title.png
+
| bobscreen=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World title.png
| publisher=[[Sega]]
+
| publisher={{company|[[Sega Enterprises, Ltd.]]|system=SMS}} {{company|[[Sega Corporation (2000-2015)|Sega Corporation]]|system=VC}}
| developer=[[Sega R&D 2]]
+
| developer={{company|[[Sega R&D 2]]|system=SMS}}
| system=[[Sega Master System]], [[Virtual Console]]
+
| distributor={{company|[[Ecofilmes]]|region=PT}}, {{company|[[Tec Toy]]|region=BR}}
 +
| system=[[Sega Master System]], [[Virtual Console]]  
 
| players=1
 
| players=1
 +
| genre=Action{{fileref|Alexkiddshinobiworld sms eu cover.jpg}}
 
| releases={{releasesSMS
 
| releases={{releasesSMS
 +
| sms_date_us=1990
 +
| sms_rrp_us=29.95{{magref|vgce|20|86}}
 +
| sms_code_us=7044
 
| sms_date_eu=1990
 
| sms_date_eu=1990
| sms_date_uk=1990-08{{magref|cvg|105|93}}
+
| sms_code_eu=7044
 +
| sms_date_uk=1990-10{{fileref|BristolEveningPost UK 1990-10-18 Page 75.jpg}}<!--1990-08{{magref|cvg|105|93}}-->
 +
| sms_code_uk=7044
 
| sms_rrp_uk=29.99{{magref|raze|11|76}}{{magref|cvg|107|116}}
 
| sms_rrp_uk=29.99{{magref|raze|11|76}}{{magref|cvg|107|116}}
 
| sms_rrp_fr=329{{magref|playerone|3|33}}
 
| sms_rrp_fr=329{{magref|playerone|3|33}}
| sms_code_eu=7044
+
| sms_date_de=1990
 
| sms_rrp_de=100
 
| sms_rrp_de=100
| sms_date_us=1990
+
| sms_code_de=7044
| sms_rrp_us=29.95{{magref|vgce|20|86}}
 
| sms_code_us=7044
 
 
| sms_date_br=199x
 
| sms_date_br=199x
 
| sms_date_ca=199x
 
| sms_date_ca=199x
 
| sms_date_au=199x
 
| sms_date_au=199x
 +
| sms_code_au=FALE05SEC
 +
| sms_date_gr=199x
 +
| sms_date_pt=199x
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{releasesWii
 
{{releasesWii
Line 25: Line 33:
 
| vc_date_eu=2009-12-11{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20170515033254/http://www.nintendolife.com:80/games/mastersystem/alex_kidd_in_shinobi_world}}{{ref|https://archive.is/C9NqG|https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Alex-Kidd-in-Shinobi-World--276170.html}}
 
| vc_date_eu=2009-12-11{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20170515033254/http://www.nintendolife.com:80/games/mastersystem/alex_kidd_in_shinobi_world}}{{ref|https://archive.is/C9NqG|https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Alex-Kidd-in-Shinobi-World--276170.html}}
 
| vc_rrp_eu=500{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20170515033254/http://www.nintendolife.com:80/games/mastersystem/alex_kidd_in_shinobi_world}}
 
| vc_rrp_eu=500{{ref|http://web.archive.org/web/20170515033254/http://www.nintendolife.com:80/games/mastersystem/alex_kidd_in_shinobi_world}}
 +
| vc_rating_eu=12
 
| vc_date_au=2009-12-11
 
| vc_date_au=2009-12-11
 
| vc_rrp_au=500{{ref|1=http://web.archive.org/web/20120328013849/http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=42&prod_id=20073&pageID=4}}
 
| vc_rrp_au=500{{ref|1=http://web.archive.org/web/20120328013849/http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=42&prod_id=20073&pageID=4}}
 
| vc_rating_au=g
 
| vc_rating_au=g
 
}}
 
}}
| genre=Action
 
| pegi=12
 
 
}}
 
}}
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a game released in 1990 for the [[Sega Master System]] console. It is the sixth and final game in the [[Alex Kidd]] series. The game is a parody of the game ''[[Shinobi]]'', with the small difference of Alex Kidd playing the hero’s role. Alex Kidd must rescue his girlfriend from the evil ninja Hanzo. He is transformed into a ninja by a mysterious deity, the White Ninja, to help him perform this task.
+
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a game released in 1990 for the [[Sega Master System]] console. It is the sixth and final game in the [[Alex Kidd]] series. The game is a parody of the game ''[[Shinobi]]'', with Alex Kidd replacing the ninja Joe Musashi.
  
It was known as '''''Shinobi Kid''''' during development{{magref|egm|9|78}} (according to GamePro's March 1990 "Short ProShots" section, at least)
+
''Alex Kidd in Shinobi World'' received favourable responses from both gamers and reviewer alike, and many consider it one of the finest Master System games ever made. It also notably introduced a wall-to-wall jumping mechanic that would later appear in ''[[Ninja Gaiden (Master System)|Ninja Gaiden]]'' for the Master System and ''[[Shinobi III]]'' for the [[Mega Drive]].
  
''Alex Kidd in Shinobi World'' received favourable responses from both gamers and reviewer alike and many consider it one of the finest Master System games ever made.
+
==Story==
 +
A malevolent being called the Dark Ninja has escaped from 10,000 years of banishment. As part of his plan to take over Miracle Girl, he kidnaps Alex Kidd's girlfriend while the pair are vacationing on the planet Shinobi. A mysterious entity, the White Ninja, appears and grants his ninja power to Alex so he can rescue her.
  
 
==Gameplay==
 
==Gameplay==
The game plays similarly to previous games in the Alex Kidd series, with {{1}} assigned for attacking and {{2}} for jumping, but with some major differences. Alex attacks with a sword, instead of his trademark fist. Ninja knives can be found, which can be used to attack enemies at a distance. Ninja magic can also be found, which allows Alex to temporarily turn into a whirlwind. Alex can also climb up ropes, bounce off walls, or swing from lamp posts and pipes to fling himself at his attackers. This is the only game in the series that has a life meter. Alex can take three hits, but he can restore his health by finding a heart. When Alex has six hit points, any further hearts become extra lives.
+
The game is an action platformer that plays more similarly to the original ''[[Shinobi]]'' game than to the previous [[Alex Kidd]] games, with some unique mechanics. The player controls Alex Kidd, who must make it to the exit of each stage and fight a boss at the end of each round. Environments and enemy designs are also inspired by ''Shinobi'' but in a more cartoonish style.
 +
 
 +
Alex walks with {{left}} or {{right}}. He squats with {{down}} or walks while crouched with {{downleft}} or {{downright}}. He can jump with {{2}}. Alex attacks with {{1}}, using a sword instead of his trademark fist. He can attack while jumping or squatting (and he can destroy flashing blocks or treasure chests below him by attacking while squatting). Ninja knives can be found, which can be used to attack enemies at a distance, replacing his sword attack. Ninja magic can be found that allows Alex to temporarily turn into an invincible whirlwind.
 +
 
 +
Alex can climb up ladders, ropes, or poles with {{up}} or {{down}}. He can grab a horizontal bar with {{up}}+{{2}} when standing under it or {{down}}+{{2}} when standing on top of it. While hanging from a pole or bar, Alex can start spinning on it by holding {{1}}, which causes him to turn into a fireball, then launch away when the player releases {{1}} (optionally while holding a direction on the D-Pad to direct Alex). He is invulnerable in this state, so he can eliminate enemies or plow through destructible blocks while in his flying fireball form. It also allows him to reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible to him. Alex can bounce between two close walls by pressing {{2}} while holding {{left}} or {{right}} toward the wall. He can repel up narrow passageways this way.
 +
 
 +
This is the only game in the series that has a life meter. Alex starts each round with three health points, but he can restore a lost health point by finding a heart. Alex can obtain up to six health points, after which any further hearts become extra lives. He loses a life if he loses all of his health points, and the game ends if the player runs out of lives but can be continued from the beginning of the round. The player gets a 2,000-point bonus for every health point left when a round is completed and a 10,000-point "Perfect Bonus" for completing a round with six health points. There is also a 10,000-point "Secret Bonus" given for completing the entire round without getting hit or losing life at any point.
  
===Rounds===
+
===Items===
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=200|
+
{{InfoTable|
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 1-1
+
| title=Treasure Chest
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage1 Part1.png
+
| sprite={{sprite | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
| desc=Parody of Shinobi's first level.
+
| desc=Destroy to unveil an item. Chests can only be broken in close range (even when using throwing knives).
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 1-2
+
| title=Heart
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage1 Part2.png
+
| sprite={{sprite | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
| desc=
+
| desc=Gives Alex another health point, up to a maximum of 6. Any extra hearts found when at the maximum number of health points are turned into extra lives.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 1-3
+
| title=Darts
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage1 Part3.png
+
| sprite={{sprite | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
| desc=End boss is Kabuto who is also a parody of Ken Oh from Shinobi ''and someone else.'' (See below)
+
| desc=Replaces Alex's sword with "darts" (kunai), which are thrown as projectiles and can deflect enemy projectiles that they hit. This item lasts until Alex loses a life or moves on to the next stage.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 2-1
+
| title=Power
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage2 Part1.png
+
| sprite={{sprite | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
| desc=Parody of Shinobi's second level, particularly level 2-3 with lots of jumps, swimming and harbor background.
+
| desc=Increases the power of Alex's sword, which increases its damage and range and gives it the ability to deflect enemy projectiles. This item lasts until Alex loses a life or moves on to the next stage.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 2-2
+
| title=Ninja's Crystal Ball
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage2 Part2.png
+
| sprite={{sprite | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
| desc=
+
| desc=Temporarily turns Alex into a tornado, which flies through the air and can be moved in any direction using the D-Pad. He is invulnerable in this state (aside from bottomless pits) and can damage enemies by touching them. The tornado also generates smaller twisters that bounce around the screen attacking damage enemies.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 2-3
+
| title=Alex Doll
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage2 Part3.png
+
| sprite={{sprite | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=80 | crop_y=0}}
| desc=End boss is "Heli". Another parody of Shinobi's bosses, "Black Turtle".
+
| desc=Gives the player an extra life.
 
}}
 
}}
{{InfoRow
 
| title=Round 3-1
 
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage3 Part1.png
 
| desc=Take place in Jungle.
 
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Rounds===
 +
The game consists of four rounds, roughly based on the missions from the original ''[[Shinobi]]''. Each round is divided into three stages, with the last stage consisting of a boss battle.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=256|
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 3-2
+
| title=Kabuto
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage3 Part2.png
+
| screenshot=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-1.png
| desc=
+
| screenshot2=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-KabutoPart1.png
 +
| map2=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-KabutoPart2.png
 +
| info1name=Boss
 +
| info1=Kabuto
 +
| desc=Set in a city. It is a parody of the first round of ''Shinobi''. The end boss, Kabuto, is a parody of Ken Oh from ''Shinobi'', a samurai who throws fireballs. He shrinks to a smaller size after sustaining enough damage (after which he can only be hit by squatting attacks), similar to [[Nintendo]]'s mascot Mario, whom he originally parodied when the game was in development.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 3-3
+
| title=Raid of the Helicopters
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage3 Part3.png
+
| screenshot=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-1.png
| desc=End boss is "Robster" a giant lobster, which is obviously a parody Shinobi's of 4th level boss "Lobster".
+
| screenshot2=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-RaidoftheHelicoptersPart1.png
 +
| map2=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-RaidoftheHelicoptersPart1Building.png
 +
| map3=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-RaidoftheHelicoptersPart1Ship.png
 +
| map4=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-RaidoftheHelicoptersPart2.png
 +
| info1name=Boss
 +
| info1=Heli
 +
| desc=Set in a harbor. It is a parody of the second round of ''Shinobi''. The end boss is Heli, a robotic face who spits a fleet miniature helicopters (resembling [[Fantasy Zone|Opa-Opa]]). It is a parody of the Black Turtle, who attacks with a cadre of ninjas rather than helicopters, and Mandara, a robotic face, from ''Shinobi''.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 4-1
+
| title=The Jungle
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage4 Part1.png
+
| screenshot=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-1.png
| desc=Take place in a ancient Japanese castle. Mostly a parody of Shinobi's final level.
+
| screenshot2=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-TheJunglePart1.png
 +
| map2=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-TheJunglePart2.png
 +
| info1name=Boss
 +
| info1=Robster
 +
| desc=Set in a jungle. The end boss is Robster, a parody of Lobster from ''Shinobi'', as an actual lobster instead of a samurai clad in red armor.
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
| title=Round 4-2
+
| title=The Battle with the Dark Ninja
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage4 Part2.png
+
| screenshot=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-1.png
| desc=
+
| screenshot2=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2.png
}}
+
| screenshot3=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2 Boss 1.png
{{InfoRow
+
| screenshot4=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2 Boss 2.png
| title=Round 4-3
+
| screenshot5=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 1.png
| screenshot=AKiSW SMS Stage4 Part3.png
+
| screenshot6=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 2.png
| desc=End boss also acts just like Nakahara, Shinobi's final boss with different appearance.
+
| screenshot7=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| map=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-TheBattlewiththeDarkNinjaPart1.png
 +
| map2=AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-TheBattlewiththeDarkNinjaPart2.png
 +
| info1name=Boss
 +
| info1=The Dark Ninja
 +
| desc=Set in an ancient Japanese castle. It is a parody of the final round of ''Shinobi''. Kabuto and Robster are fought again in the second stage, then the Dark Ninja is fought in the final stage, with very similar phases as the Masked Ninja of ''Shinobi''.
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
===Super Mario Parody===
+
===Development===
During the development phase, in which the game was named "Shinobi Kid", first boss Kabuto was actually going to be a parody of Super Mario, Nintendo's most well-known character. He was supposed to have a moustache and named "Mari-Oh" but this was later dropped due to possible copyright problems. The obscure reference still remains however as Kabuto shrinks (similar to Mario who also shrinks when damaged, before the dies) when players inflict enough damage to him.
+
It was known as '''''Shinobi Kid''''' during development{{magref|egm|9|78}} (according to GamePro's March 1990 "Short ProShots" section). The first boss Kabuto was originally supposed to be a parody of Super Mario, [[Nintendo]]'s most well-known character. He was supposed to be named "Mari-Oh" and have a moustache, but this was later dropped due to possible copyright problems. The reference still remains however as Kabuto shrinks (similar to Mario who also shrinks when damaged, before the dies) when players inflict enough damage to him.
  
 
==Production credits==
 
==Production credits==
{{creditstable|
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Production credits}}
*'''Game Design:''' [[Yoshio Yoshida|Yoshio.Y]], [[Captain Elf|Cap.Elf]]
 
*'''Programming:''' [[Takubo]], [[Kuma]]
 
*'''Graphic Design:''' [[Youko]], [[Gen Adachi|Gen]], [[Stresteles]]
 
*'''Music Compose:''' [[XOR]]
 
*'''Special Thanks:''' [[Pata]], [[Teriyaki.Fanks]], [[Okaru]]
 
| console=SMS
 
}}
 
  
 
==Magazine articles==
 
==Magazine articles==
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==Promotional material==
 
==Promotional material==
 
{{gallery
 
{{gallery
 +
|{{gitem|MSII NO promo.jpg|NO advert (1991)}}
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
|sv|2|36-37
 
|sv|2|36-37
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Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (Booklet) SMS AU Manual Photo.JPG|AU Booklet Manual
 
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (Booklet) SMS AU Manual Photo.JPG|AU Booklet Manual
 
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (Fold Out) SMS AU Manual Photo.JPG|AU Fold-Out Manual
 
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (Fold Out) SMS AU Manual Photo.JPG|AU Fold-Out Manual
 +
</gallery>
 +
 +
==Artwork==
 +
<gallery>
 +
SegaForeverYT AlexKidd4 1202x1202.jpg|Cover
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
 
==Physical scans==
 
==Physical scans==
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|SMS}}
| icon=SMS
 
| cgtc=92
 
| cgtc_source={{num|3|page=83}}
 
| cgtc_1=90
 
| cgtc_source_1={{magref|cgtc|4|90}}
 
| cgts=90
 
| cgts_source={{magref|cgts|1|52}}
 
| cvg=92
 
| cvg_source={{magref|cvg|106|88|printpage=88/89}}
 
| excalibur=50
 
| excalibur_source={{magref|excalibur|18|37}}
 
| gamemania=90
 
| gamemania_source={{magref|gamemania|5|81}}
 
| joystick=91
 
| joystick_source={{magref|joystick|9|92}}
 
| mms=90
 
| mms_source={{magref|mms|1|132}}
 
| playerone=74
 
| playerone_source={{magref|playerone|3|32|printpage=32/33}}
 
| pp=77
 
| s=88
 
| s_source={{magref|s|10|4|printpage=4/5}}
 
| segapower=80
 
| segapower_source={{magref|segapower|23|55}}
 
| segapro=88
 
| segapro_source={{magref|segapro|1|19}}
 
| zero=78
 
| zero_source={{magref|zero|14|128}}
 
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
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}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
| region=GR
+
| region=FR (Blister pack)
| cover=Alexkiddshinobiworld sms GR cover.jpg
+
| front=AKiSW SMS FR blister front.jpg
 +
| back=AKiSW SMS FR blister back.jpg
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
| region=GR<br>8 Languages variant
+
| region=BX
| cover=AKiSW SMS GR Box 8L.jpg
+
| front=AKiSW SMS BX Box Front.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=PT
 +
| cover=AKiSW SMS PT cover.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=GR ([[Zegetron]])
 +
| cover=
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
Line 243: Line 265:
 
| cartback=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Back.JPG
 
| cartback=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Back.JPG
 
| carttop=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Top.JPG
 
| carttop=Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Top.JPG
}}
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| region=Benelux Union
 
| front=AKiSW SMS BX Box Front.jpg
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
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===ROM dump status===
 
===ROM dump status===
 
{{romtable|
 
{{romtable|
{{rom|SMS|sha1=E7C7C24E208AFB986AB389883F98A1B5A8249FEA|md5=D62B631506913712A2103F54912458A5|crc32=D2417ED7|size=256kB|date= |source=Cartridge (EU/US)|comments=|quality=|prototype=}}
+
{{rom|SMS|sha1=E7C7C24E208AFB986AB389883F98A1B5A8249FEA|md5=D62B631506913712A2103F54912458A5|crc32=D2417ED7|size=256kB|date= |source=Cartridge (EU/US)|comments=|quality=}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
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<references/>
 
<references/>
  
 +
{{AlexKiddinShinobiWorldOmni}}
 
{{Alexkidd}}
 
{{Alexkidd}}
 +
{{Shinobi}}

Latest revision as of 22:09, 8 November 2024

n/a

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World title.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World
System(s): Sega Master System, Virtual Console
Publisher:
Sega Master System
Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
Wii Virtual Console
Sega Corporation
Developer:
Distributor: Ecofilmes (PT), Tec Toy (BR)
Genre: Action[1]

















Number of players: 1
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Master System
US
$29.9529.95[2] 7044
Sega Master System
EU
7044
Sega Master System
DE
DM 100100 7044
Sega Master System
PT
Sega Master System
UK
£29.9929.99[4][5] 7044
Sega Master System
GR
Sega Master System
AU
FALE05SEC
Sega Master System
CA
Sega Master System
BR
Wii Virtual Console
US
500pts500[7]
ESRB: Everyone
Wii Virtual Console
EU
500pts500[8]
PEGI: 12+
Wii Virtual Console
AU
500pts500[10]
OFLC: General (G)

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World is a game released in 1990 for the Sega Master System console. It is the sixth and final game in the Alex Kidd series. The game is a parody of the game Shinobi, with Alex Kidd replacing the ninja Joe Musashi.

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World received favourable responses from both gamers and reviewer alike, and many consider it one of the finest Master System games ever made. It also notably introduced a wall-to-wall jumping mechanic that would later appear in Ninja Gaiden for the Master System and Shinobi III for the Mega Drive.

Story

A malevolent being called the Dark Ninja has escaped from 10,000 years of banishment. As part of his plan to take over Miracle Girl, he kidnaps Alex Kidd's girlfriend while the pair are vacationing on the planet Shinobi. A mysterious entity, the White Ninja, appears and grants his ninja power to Alex so he can rescue her.

Gameplay

The game is an action platformer that plays more similarly to the original Shinobi game than to the previous Alex Kidd games, with some unique mechanics. The player controls Alex Kidd, who must make it to the exit of each stage and fight a boss at the end of each round. Environments and enemy designs are also inspired by Shinobi but in a more cartoonish style.

Alex walks with Left or Right. He squats with Down or walks while crouched with Down-left or Down-right. He can jump with 2. Alex attacks with 1, using a sword instead of his trademark fist. He can attack while jumping or squatting (and he can destroy flashing blocks or treasure chests below him by attacking while squatting). Ninja knives can be found, which can be used to attack enemies at a distance, replacing his sword attack. Ninja magic can be found that allows Alex to temporarily turn into an invincible whirlwind.

Alex can climb up ladders, ropes, or poles with Up or Down. He can grab a horizontal bar with Up+2 when standing under it or Down+2 when standing on top of it. While hanging from a pole or bar, Alex can start spinning on it by holding 1, which causes him to turn into a fireball, then launch away when the player releases 1 (optionally while holding a direction on the D-Pad to direct Alex). He is invulnerable in this state, so he can eliminate enemies or plow through destructible blocks while in his flying fireball form. It also allows him to reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible to him. Alex can bounce between two close walls by pressing 2 while holding Left or Right toward the wall. He can repel up narrow passageways this way.

This is the only game in the series that has a life meter. Alex starts each round with three health points, but he can restore a lost health point by finding a heart. Alex can obtain up to six health points, after which any further hearts become extra lives. He loses a life if he loses all of his health points, and the game ends if the player runs out of lives but can be continued from the beginning of the round. The player gets a 2,000-point bonus for every health point left when a round is completed and a 10,000-point "Perfect Bonus" for completing a round with six health points. There is also a 10,000-point "Secret Bonus" given for completing the entire round without getting hit or losing life at any point.

Items

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png
Treasure Chest
Destroy to unveil an item. Chests can only be broken in close range (even when using throwing knives).
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png
Heart
Gives Alex another health point, up to a maximum of 6. Any extra hearts found when at the maximum number of health points are turned into extra lives.
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png
Darts
Replaces Alex's sword with "darts" (kunai), which are thrown as projectiles and can deflect enemy projectiles that they hit. This item lasts until Alex loses a life or moves on to the next stage.
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png
Power
Increases the power of Alex's sword, which increases its damage and range and gives it the ability to deflect enemy projectiles. This item lasts until Alex loses a life or moves on to the next stage.
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png
Ninja's Crystal Ball
Temporarily turns Alex into a tornado, which flies through the air and can be moved in any direction using the D-Pad. He is invulnerable in this state (aside from bottomless pits) and can damage enemies by touching them. The tornado also generates smaller twisters that bounce around the screen attacking damage enemies.
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Items.png
Alex Doll
Gives the player an extra life.

Rounds

The game consists of four rounds, roughly based on the missions from the original Shinobi. Each round is divided into three stages, with the last stage consisting of a boss battle.

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-1.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-2.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-3.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-1.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-2.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 1-3.png

Kabuto
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 
Boss:
Kabuto
Set in a city. It is a parody of the first round of Shinobi. The end boss, Kabuto, is a parody of Ken Oh from Shinobi, a samurai who throws fireballs. He shrinks to a smaller size after sustaining enough damage (after which he can only be hit by squatting attacks), similar to Nintendo's mascot Mario, whom he originally parodied when the game was in development.

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-1.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-2.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-3.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-1.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-2.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 2-3.png

Raid of the Helicopters
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ | 3️⃣ | 4️⃣ 
Boss:
Heli
Set in a harbor. It is a parody of the second round of Shinobi. The end boss is Heli, a robotic face who spits a fleet miniature helicopters (resembling Opa-Opa). It is a parody of the Black Turtle, who attacks with a cadre of ninjas rather than helicopters, and Mandara, a robotic face, from Shinobi.

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-1.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-2.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-3.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-1.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-2.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 3-3.png

The Jungle
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 
Boss:
Robster
Set in a jungle. The end boss is Robster, a parody of Lobster from Shinobi, as an actual lobster instead of a samurai clad in red armor.

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-1.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2 Boss 1.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2 Boss 2.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 1.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 2.png

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 3.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-1.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2 Boss 1.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-2 Boss 2.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 1.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 2.png

  • Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS, Stage 4-3 Boss 3.png

The Battle with the Dark Ninja
Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 
Boss:
The Dark Ninja
Set in an ancient Japanese castle. It is a parody of the final round of Shinobi. Kabuto and Robster are fought again in the second stage, then the Dark Ninja is fought in the final stage, with very similar phases as the Masked Ninja of Shinobi.

History

Development

It was known as Shinobi Kid during development[11] (according to GamePro's March 1990 "Short ProShots" section). The first boss Kabuto was originally supposed to be a parody of Super Mario, Nintendo's most well-known character. He was supposed to be named "Mari-Oh" and have a moustache, but this was later dropped due to possible copyright problems. The reference still remains however as Kabuto shrinks (similar to Mario who also shrinks when damaged, before the dies) when players inflict enough damage to him.

Production credits

Main article: Alex Kidd in Shinobi World/Production credits.

Magazine articles

Main article: Alex Kidd in Shinobi World/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

MSII NO promo.jpg
NO advert (1991)
MSII NO promo.jpg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Sega Visions (US) #2: "October/November 1990" (1990-xx-xx)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Computer & Video Games (UK) #107: "October 1990" (1990-09-16)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Sega Power (UK) #13: "December 1990" (1990-11-01)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg

Photo gallery

Artwork

Physical scans

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
92
[20]
Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
90
[21]
The Complete Guide to Sega (UK) PAL
90
[22]
Console XS (UK) PAL
85
[23]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
92
[24]
Excalibur (CZ)
50
[25]
Game Mania (UK)
90
[26]
Joystick (FR)
91
[27]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
90
[28]
Player One (FR)
74
[29]
Power Play (DE)
77
[30]
S: The Sega Magazine (UK) PAL
88
[31]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
75
[32]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
88
[33]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
85
[34]
VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US)
60
[2]
Zero (UK) PAL
78
[35]
Sega Master System
82
Based on
17 reviews

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World

Master System, US
AlexKiddInShinobiWorld-SMS-US.jpg
Cover
AKiSW US cart.jpg
Cart
Alexkiddshinobiworld sms us manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, EU
6 Languages variant
Alexkiddshinobiworld sms eu cover.jpg
Cover
AKiSW EU cart.jpg
Cart
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (6 Languages) SMS EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, EU
8 Languages variant
AKiSW SMS EU Box 8L.jpg
Cover
Master System, FR (Blister pack)
AKiSW SMS FR blister back.jpgAKiSW SMS FR blister front.jpg
Cover
Master System, BX
AKiSW SMS BX Box Front.jpg
Cover
Master System, PT
AKiSW SMS PT cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, GR (Zegetron)

Master System, BR (cardboard)
AKiSW SMS BR Box Cardboard.jpg
Cover
AlexKiddInShinobiWorld SMS BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, BR (clamshell)
Alexkiddshinobiworld sms br cover.jpg
Cover
AlexKiddInShinobiWorldSMSBRCartridge.jpg
Cart
AlexKiddInShinobiWorld SMS BR Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, CA
AlexKiddInShinobiWorldSMSCABack.jpg
Cover
Master System, AU (Booklet Manual)
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cover.JPG
Cover
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Top.JPG
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Back.JPGAlex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Front.JPG
Cart
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (Booklet) SMS AU Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, AU (Fold-Out Manual)
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cover.JPG
Cover
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Top.JPG
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Back.JPGAlex Kidd in Shinobi World SMS AU Cart Front.JPG
Cart
Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (Fold-Out) SMS AU Manual.pdf
Manual

Technical information

ROM dump status

System Hash Size Build Date Source Comments
Sega Master System
 ?
CRC32 d2417ed7
MD5 d62b631506913712a2103f54912458a5
SHA-1 e7c7c24e208afb986ab389883f98a1b5a8249fea
256kB Cartridge (EU/US)

External links

  • Nintendo catalogue pages: US, UK, AU

References

  1. File:Alexkiddshinobiworld sms eu cover.jpg
  2. 2.0 2.1 VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "September 1990" (US; 1990-0x-xx), page 86
  3. File:BristolEveningPost UK 1990-10-18 Page 75.jpg
  4. Raze, "September 1991" (UK; 1991-07-25), page 76
  5. Computer & Video Games, "October 1990" (UK; 1990-09-16), page 116
  6. Player One, "Novembre 1990" (FR; 1990-xx-xx), page 33
  7. 7.0 7.1 http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/LsnQt1IWMHnxeKT6jAhxdAIRP9d_xkar (Wayback Machine: 2010-11-22 22:46)
  8. 8.0 8.1 http://www.nintendolife.com:80/games/mastersystem/alex_kidd_in_shinobi_world (Wayback Machine: 2017-05-15 03:32)
  9. https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Alex-Kidd-in-Shinobi-World--276170.html (archive.today)
  10. http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=42&prod_id=20073&pageID=4 (Wayback Machine: 2012-03-28 01:38)
  11. Electronic Gaming Monthly, "April 1990" (US; 1990-xx-xx), page 78
  12. GamePro, "January 1991" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 44
  13. GamePro, "March 1991" (US; 1991-xx-xx), page 22
  14. Computer & Video Games, "November 1990" (UK; 1990-10-16), page 58
  15. ACE, "November 1990" (UK; 1990-10-xx), page 92
  16. Computer & Video Games, "December 1990" (UK; 1990-11-16), page 168
  17. ACE, "December 1990" (UK; 1990-11-xx), page 102
  18. Sega Power, "January 1991" (UK; 1990-12-06), page 2
  19. Computer & Video Games, "January 1991" (UK; 1990-12-15), page 98
  20. Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume III" (UK; 1990-08-xx), page 83
  21. Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume IV" (UK; 1990-11-xx), page 90
  22. The Complete Guide to Sega, "" (UK; 1991-05-xx), page 52
  23. Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 137
  24. Computer & Video Games, "September 1990" (UK; 1990-08-16), page 88
  25. Excalibur, "" (CZ; 1993-09-10), page 33
  26. Game Mania, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-xx-xx), page 81
  27. Joystick, "Octobre 1990" (FR; 1990-xx-xx), page 92
  28. Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 132
  29. Player One, "Novembre 1990" (FR; 1990-xx-xx), page 32
  30. Power Play, "8/90" (DE; 1990-07-13), page 127
  31. S: The Sega Magazine, "September 1990" (UK; 1990-08-02), page 4
  32. Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 55
  33. Sega Pro, "November 1991" (UK; 1991-xx-xx), page 19
  34. Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 70
  35. Zero, "December 1990" (UK; 1990-1x-xx), page 128


Alex Kidd in Shinobi World

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World title.png

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Alex Kidd punching sprite Alex Kidd series of games
Sega Master System
Alex Kidd in Miracle World (1986) | Alex Kidd BMX Trial (1987) | Alex Kidd: The Lost Stars (1988) | Alex Kidd: High-Tech World (1989) | Alex Kidd in Shinobi World (1990)
Arcade
Alex Kidd: The Lost Stars (1986)
Sega Mega Drive
Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle (1989)
Nintendo Switch
Sega Ages Alex Kidd in Miracle World (2019) | Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX (2021)
Sony PlayStation 4
PlayStation 5
Xbox One
Steam
Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX (2021)
Alex Kidd related media
Music
Alex Kidd Complete Album (2009)
Other List of Alex Kidd merchandise



Games in the Shinobi series
Arcade
Shinobi (1987) | Shadow Dancer (1989)
Sega Master System
Shinobi (1988) | The Cyber Shinobi (1990) | Shadow Dancer (1991)
Amiga
Atari ST
Amstrad CPC
Commodore 64
ZX Spectrum
IBM PC compatibles
MSX
Shinobi (1989)
Sega Mega Drive
The Revenge of Shinobi (1989) | Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi (1990) | Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master (1993)
Sega Game Gear
The GG Shinobi (1991) | The GG Shinobi II: The Silent Fury (1992)
Sega Saturn
Shinobi Legions (1995)
Game Boy Advance
The Revenge of Shinobi (2002)
Sony PlayStation 2
Shinobi (2002) | Nightshade (2003)
Nintendo 3DS
Shinobi 3D (2011) | 3D Shinobi III (2013)
Nintendo Switch
Sega Ages Shinobi (2019)
Shinobi related media
Music
The Super Shinobi & Works (1989) | Shinobi Original Soundtrack (2002) | Legend of Joe Musashi: Shinobi Music Collection (2009) | Shinobi 3D Original Soundtrack (2012) | Kunoichi Original Soundtrack (2014) | Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master (2015) | The Revenge of Shinobi (2016) | Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi (2022)
Book
Shinobi: The Fear Pavilion (1994) | Shin Shinobi Den Hisshou Kouryaku Hou (1995) | Prima's Official Strategy Guide: Shinobi (2002) | Shinobi: The Rise of Hotsuma (2002) | Shinobi: The Complete Guide (2002) | Shinobi the Wide Ilustration Archive (2003) | Kunoichi Koushiki Guide Book (2003) | Kunoichi Perfect Guide (2004)