Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4

About Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 is a 2D/3D hybrid fighting game and adventure title set in the Naruto anime universe. Developed by CyberConnect2 and published by Bandai Namco, it launched on February 4, 2016, for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. The game adapts the final arcs of the Naruto Shippuden storyline, serving as the series’ last entry. It combines single-player narrative progression with arcade-style combat, letting players battle as iconic characters like Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. With over 12 million copies sold across the Storm series, this title adds next-gen visuals and expanded story content. Best for fans craving a deep dive into the Naruto saga’s conclusion.

Gameplay

The core loop blends story-driven missions with 1v1 and 2v2 combat. Players execute flashy combos, charge chakra-based special moves, and switch between characters in team battles. The story mode follows key Shippuden arcs, like the Fourth Great Ninja War, with scripted cutscenes and boss fights. Each session involves navigating platforming segments, dodging enemy attacks, and chaining techniques using a directional pad. Multiplayer lets you test skills in ranked matches or custom lobbies. While the mechanics are polished, the AI in story mode can feel inconsistent. Newcomers might find the move list overwhelming, but the deep roster of 130+ characters and customizable difficulty keep it engaging.

What Players Think

IGDB scores it 76.3/100, with praise for its roster and story pacing but criticism for repetitive combat. Community moods skew positive, with many highlighting the 12+ hour campaign and nostalgic value. Average playtime clocks in at 15-20 hours for completionists. Critics note the game’s dated physics engine compared to later 2D fighters. Achievement completion rates are moderate, at 68% overall. Fan forums debate the lack of post-launch content, though most agree it’s the best entry for Shippuden purists. Price points vary, but it’s often available for $20-30, making it a budget-friendly fix for anime enthusiasts.

PlayPile's Take

A must-play for Naruto series completists, but not a gateway for new players. The 76.3 score reflects solid execution over innovation, with a focus on nostalgia over fresh mechanics. At 12+ million sales, it’s a safe bet for fans seeking the saga’s end. Achievements are plentiful but not overly challenging. If you’ve followed Naruto’s journey, this is the final chapter worth experiencing. Others might find it too reliant on prior knowledge or combat that feels derivative. Stick with it for the story, but don’t expect a fresh brawler.

Storyline

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate ninja Storm 4 covers the final arcs of the Naruto storyline, therefore making it the last installment in the series.