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Review of Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 (PS3)
Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 continues CyberConnect2s celebrated anime-fighting series, bringing cinematic storytelling, flashy combat, and the beloved cast of the Naruto Shippuden universe to the PlayStation 3. It builds on the mechanics of Ultimate Ninja Storm 2, offering smoother gameplay, larger battles, and an emotional retelling of major moments from the Fourth Great Ninja War.
The gameplay is a mix of 3D arena-style fighting and narrative-driven adventure. Players control one character at a time, engaging in fast-paced, combo-heavy combat with accessible controls that make it easy for newcomers but still engaging for veterans. Movement feels fluid, allowing players to dash, guard, teleport (Substitution Jutsu), and unleash devastating Ultimate Jutsus.
The combat emphasizes cinematic spectacle massive chakra-powered attacks fill the screen with vibrant effects. Boss battles are a highlight, featuring giant-scale encounters against iconic foes like the Nine-Tails and masked Madara, blending quick-time events, dodging, and strategy into epic set pieces.
Support characters return, allowing players to summon allies mid-battle to extend combos or defend against attacks. Chakra management and timing are crucial using too many abilities too quickly can leave players vulnerable.
Overall, the fighting feels both thrilling and satisfying, capturing the animes dramatic energy perfectly.
The story mode covers an extensive portion of the Naruto Shippuden saga, from the aftermath of Pains attack on the Hidden Leaf Village through the climactic battles of the Fourth Great Ninja War. The game does an excellent job of blending anime storytelling with interactive gameplay, offering over a dozen hours of content.
Cutscenes are beautifully animated and often indistinguishable from the anime itself. Key story moments are delivered with intense emotion the confrontation with Pain, Narutos inner struggle with Kurama, and the wars large-scale conflicts are handled with care and respect for the source material.
Adventure segments allow players to explore iconic locations such as Konoha, the Sand Village, and the battlefield. These areas contain side missions, collectibles, and character interactions that add depth to the world. While exploration isnt overly complex, it offers a nice break from the intense fighting sequences.
The game also features branching choices in certain story moments Hero or Legend paths which slightly alter battles and dialogue, adding replayability to the narrative.
The roster is one of the strongest points of Ultimate Ninja Storm 3, featuring over 80 playable characters from across the Naruto saga. From heroes like Naruto, Kakashi, and Gaara to villains like Itachi, Kisame, and Madara, the selection is generous and diverse.
Each fighter has their own moveset, ultimate attack, and awakening transformation. For instance, Naruto can enter Sage Mode or access Kuramas chakra cloak, while Sasuke channels the power of the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan.
Customization options allow players to assign support types, jutsu preferences, and team combinations. Special team combinations unlock hidden synergy effects and intro animations, paying tribute to memorable anime moments.
Beyond Story Mode, the game includes several other modes:
Free Battle: Classic versus mode where you can fight against the AI or friends locally.
