Originally released on the Game Boy Advance (GBA) in April 2003, Ninja Five-O (known as Ninja Cop in some regions) became a cult classic despite its limited production run. Developed by Hudson Soft and published by Konami, it combined swift platforming, sword combat, and a grappling hook mechanic that let players swing across levels like a stealthy superhero.
Low print numbers and minimal marketing turned Ninja Five-O into a prized collector’s item, with used cartridges fetching high prices online. Critics adored the game’s tight controls and arcade feel, praising its unexpected depth and polished presentation. Over time, word-of-mouth elevated it to near-legendary status among GBA enthusiasts.
Now, Konami is finally acknowledging that legacy. Their recent Tweet teased a remastered edition of Ninja Five-O, sparking excitement across social media. Meanwhile, the official Konami website overview confirms the revival, promising updated visuals, scaled to modern screens, as well as potential new modes for speedrunners and fans chasing high scores.
Harness the full power of Ninjutsu and rid the city streets of a maniacal threat! 🥷💪
— Konami (@Konami) January 21, 2025
Originally released in 2003 for the GameBoy Advance, action platformer Ninja Five-O swings onto PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, and Steam on Feb. 25.
Digital pre-orders begin later… pic.twitter.com/APJBVYLMR3
While the story, levels, and trademark difficulty remain, the remake is expected to include adjustable challenges for newer players. Crucially, the beloved grappling hook feature returns, letting you swing, slash, and stealth through each stage. No firm release date has been announced, but Konami suggests it will appear on multiple modern platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.
For fans who missed the original’s short-lived retail run, this re-release marks an affordable chance to try a near-forgotten gem. With old-school ninja flair and frenetic 2D combat, Ninja Five-O could once again captivate a generation used to open-world epics and high-definition shooters.
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