Even with the difficulty spike, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a remarkable 2D action game. For $30, it provides substance and fun, and Lizardcube escalates difficulty just enough to make finishing a level satisfying. If you're rebooting a 2D action franchise to appeal to fans of its older games, Art of Vengeance is a perfect example of how to do it.

The Paris-based studio has already proven itself with its delicious remake of Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap followed by the excellent revival of Streets of Rage with a new entry in 16 years, both employing a beautiful hand-drawn art style. But Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is perhaps its biggest challenge to date.