Tenchu Z review

A stealthy study on nature's most murderous mammal

GamesRadar+ Verdict

Pros

  • +

    A wealth of stealth

  • +

    Blood spurts like a leaky dam

  • +

    Purchasable weapons and abilities

Cons

  • -

    Controls are needlessly complicated

  • -

    Screaming swordplay

  • -

    Killing dogs

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It’s been nearly ten years since Tenchu creptup behind our consoles, silently doling out deathwhile Splinter Cell’s Sam Fischer was still in Osh Kosh Kevlar. But thanksto the Snakes and Fischers of this world artfully sneaking about and delivering the big sleep, Tenchu’s soft-footed warriors of quiet have looked a little meager by comparison. Tenchu Z hopes to right the slow but steady decline the series has been in since its inception by focusing on what ninjas do best: Ultra-stealthy bloodletting.

A ninja’s best friend has always been the things that cut, stab and kill.You’re certainly not without your swords, arrows and shuriken, but you’ll also find that shadows and bushes are also very worthy companionsindeed. Tenchu emphasizes clandestine concealment over rampant killing, imploring you to holster your murderous instinct until it’s absolutely necessary.

To lenda hand, the on-screen display does a great job of conveying your sound, danger proximity and visibility -all of which you’ll want to keep to a minimum. If you’re not carefully silent, maneuvering amongst light and cover, you’llquickly be spotted and dealt with. Even the reflection of a drawn sword can attract unwanted attention.

More info

GenreAction
DescriptionCareful timing, stealthy assassination and meticulous strategizing mean that we don't have to go to Japan to become ninjas - or to play the new Tenchu game.
Franchise nameTenchu
UK franchise nameTenchu
Platform"Xbox 360"
US censor rating"Mature"
UK censor rating"Rating Pending"
Release date1 January 1970 (US), 1 January 1970 (UK)
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