Shadow Warriors Episode II is one of those NES ninja games that feels like it should've been way harder than it actually is. You slash through waves of enemies with surprisingly smooth controls (for an 8-bit game), and the levels have this cool mix of platforming and straight-up brawling. The first stage throws you right into a burning village—no tutorial, just ninja instincts.

I remember getting stuck on the third boss for way too long until I realized you could actually block his attacks if you timed it right. The music’s got that classic NES vibe—all tense and synth-heavy—and the sword upgrades actually feel worth hunting down. It’s not Ninja Gaiden-level punishing, but it’s got enough challenge to keep you on your toes.

Also, the European version has this weirdly dramatic subtitle that makes it sound way more epic than it needs to be. Still fun though.