3 Ninjas Kick Back

About

3 Ninjas Kick Back is a 1994 action-platformer where you control one of three nimble ninjas battling wild beasts and rival warriors. Set in a world of martial arts mayhem, the game blends side-scrolling platforming with beat-'em-up combat as you leap, kick, and slash through levels to rescue Grandfather Mori and reclaim a stolen dagger. The stages mix environmental hazards, enemy waves, and puzzle-like obstacles, all while maintaining a campy, over-the-top tone that matches the film it’s based on. Split-screen co-op lets two players team up to tackle the chaos together. The game stands out for its quirky charm and surprisingly solid multiplayer mode. While the graphics and controls hold up better on the Genesis version, the split-screen feature remains a highlight, encouraging chaotic teamwork or rival play. Though it never reached cult classic status, 3 Ninjas Kick Back offers a lighthearted, fast-paced experience that feels like a 90s arcade port with a ninja twist. Its mix of goofy enemies and straightforward mechanics makes it a nostalgic pick for fans of retro platformers.

Storyline

Fifty years ago, the master samurai fought in a ninja tournament to win a magical dagger that together with an ancient samurai sword, is believed to be the key to unlocking a secret cave laden with riches. After winning the tournament and rightfully gaining the dagger, it was stolen by the master's archrival, Koga. Though the master searched far and wide, he never found any trace of Koga or the dagger. Now, too old to continue searching, the master sends his three young apprentices, the young ninja brothers, Rocky, Colt, and Tum-Tum, to assist him in retrieving the prized dagger. Once it has been restored to its rightful owner, the dagger shall once again be passed along to younger generations, through the winners of the ninja tournament.