Shadow Dancer doesn’t get enough love compared to other Shinobi games, but honestly? It’s got this weird charm. You play as a ninja with a dog—yes, a dog—that you can sic on enemies mid-jump. Feels ridiculous and cool at the same time.

The Genesis version is totally different from the arcade one—more levels, better pacing, and way less punishing. Graphics hold up surprisingly well, too, with these moody cityscapes and flickering neon signs. First time I played, I kept getting wrecked by the bosses until I realized the dog is basically your secret weapon.

It’s not perfect, but there’s something about the rhythm of slashing, dodging, and unleashing your furry sidekick that just clicks. Definitely worth a shot if you’re into retro action with a little extra flair.