The Shinobi series concludes with this installment on the Nintendo 3DS. Joe Musashi, a skilled ninja, returns to Japan to recover from his last battle against the Neo Zeed organization. However, he soon senses that the organization's leaders are secretly rebuilding their forces and sets out to stop them once again.
The gameplay is largely reminiscent of its predecessors, with side-scrolling action and platform elements. Musashi wields a sword and kunai as his primary weapons, which can be upgraded using power-ups found in crates. The game also introduces new mechanics, such as the ability to block enemy projectiles, perform wall jumps, and dash through enemies.
The game is divided into seven rounds, each with its own unique challenges and bosses. While most levels feature horizontal scrolling, some introduce vertical scrolling elements, including a challenging level where Musashi must navigate falling rocks. Hidden items and secret paths can be discovered in many levels, adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.
The game offers four difficulty levels, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. Players can earn extra lives and points by completing levels without using certain techniques, such as using kunai or ninjitsu. The game also features a unique scoring system that encourages players to experiment with different strategies.