Man, The Ninja on the Sega Master System is one of those games that looks simple at first—until you realize how fast things get chaotic. You start off with basic jumps and shurikens, but by level two, you're dodging arrows, timing jumps over pits, and trying not to get cornered by enemies. The controls are tight, though, which helps when you're mid-air and suddenly need to flip around to avoid a spear.

What I love is how it doesn’t hold your hand. No tutorials, no hints—just you, a ninja, and a lot of trial-and-error deaths. The music’s got that classic 8-bit energy, and the sprite work actually holds up pretty well for its time. By the third stage, you’ll be lunging at enemies with your sword like it’s second nature, though good luck surviving the boss fights on your first try.

It’s the kind of game where you’ll replay levels just to nail that perfect run. Definitely a gem if you’re into old-school platformers with a bite.