Nichibustu went ninja time and released Ninja Emaki!
Version Differences#
There are two Japanese versions of the game. Based on the title screen, the US version appears to be derived from the alternate Japanese release.
Title Screen#
Japan |
Japan (Alternate) |
US |
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In the original Japanese version, the title screen features three ninjas standing on the roof of a temple, with the game’s logo integrated into the scene. In other versions, this was replaced with something more... Satan-esque?
The 1986 in the copyright string was recolored from blue to teal.
Additionally, the US title screen includes a blue "Ninja Emaki" label in the top-left corner, updates the katakana text to match the new game title, and slightly redesigns the devilish figure's face because, if you notice closely, he looked more confused rather than menacing in the Japanese title screen.
Gameplay#
The US version introduces a welcoming addition: a lifebar!
Both Japanese versions go with the traditional "one hit and you're dead", unless you obtained a magic scroll that grants you an extra hit point, but at the cost of losing all magical powers. The US version allows you to take three hits before dying, and if you obtained a magic scroll and lose a life unit, you won't lose the magical powers.