10 Second Ninja X
Overview -
In 2014, Four Circle Entertainment released '10 Second Ninja' on PC. The masocore platformer, whose hook was that every level must be completed within 10 seconds, received a positive response from both critics and consumers. Now two years later, the developer has returned to the concept with a sequel called '10 Second Ninja X.'
Video Review
'10 Second Ninja X' features a colorful 2D art style, but one that just seems generic. Each set of levels features a different theme, but they're all pretty generic in nature. There are ice levels, stages that feature grassy plains, and every other platforming trope is represented. Even the titular hero doesn't stand out, and all of the baddies are just dull looking robots. It's completely lacking in any personality from a visual perspective, which is strange since the few lines of dialogue in the game are all bursting with character.
Audio Review
While the visuals may be generic, at least they are polished and nice to look at. '10 Second Ninja X's music on the other hand adds nothing to the experience. Every area features generic rock music that loops in the background infinitely. It's forgettable and deeply disappointing when its masocore contemporaries like 'Super Meat Boy' feature fantastic music.
Final Thoughts
While '10 Second Ninja X' suffers from a lack of difficulty scaling, it's still an enjoyable skill based title that is as much a puzzle game as a platformer. I felt satisfied every time I laid out the correct path to take in a stage, and it was even more thrilling when I was able to successfully execute my plans. The biggest problem is that the main game ends just as it begins to hit its stride, and it feels like the core idea could've been fleshed out more than it has.
