Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master

Shinobi 3 - Return of the Ninja Master (known as The Super Shinobi 2 in Japan) is a video game by SEGA for the Sega Genesis console that was released in 1993. It is the sequel of the 1989 game The Revenge of Shinobi. Many regard it as the best game of the Shinobi series, due to its high quality visuals and fast, varied gameplay. The game was originally intended to be released in 1992, and be very different from the final version of the game in terms of levels and storyline.

Neo Zeed is threatening the world once more. The evil crime syndicate - thought to have been vanquished 2 years earlier - has returned, headed by a man known only as the Shadow Master. Joe Musashi has felt their presence, and descends from the lonely mountaintops of Japan to face his arch-nemesis once more. He is the Shinobi, stronger than steel and faster than a whirlwind, the last keeper of the Oboro Ninjitsu techniques. Only he can stop Neo Zeed.

Compared to its predecessor The Revenge of Shinobi, the action in Shinobi 3 is considerably smoother, with less emphasis on difficulty (performing trick jumps) and more on speed. In addition to the ability to run from place to place (instead of walk), Joe comes equipped with a new array of moves and techniques, including a mid-air dashkick, the ability to jump-scale walls and a powerful running slash that renders him temporarily invincible.

The D-pad controls Shinobi's movements, while the action buttons C, B and A are used to jump, throw knives (sword-slash) and perform a special ninjitsu technique respectively. Shuriken, as always, are the basic staple of Shinobi's attacks. He can throw them straight toward his enemies one at a time or launch ten at once during a somersault. In addition, the power-up bonus triples all knife damage as well as enhancing Shinobi's close-combat skills.