Reviving the Legacy: Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections
It’s been seven long years since the release of a proper Ultimate Ninja Storm game, and fans have been eagerly awaiting the next installment. Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections aims to pick up where the previous games left off, showcasing a “greatest hits” collection of characters and gameplay elements from the series. As I experienced the game firsthand at Summer Game Fest, I felt a sense of nostalgia mixed with excitement for the new era this game represents.
Bringing Familiarity and Accessibility
Mechanically, Naruto X Boruto plays similarly to its predecessors, offering a 3D arena fighting experience with basic attacks, combos, and an array of powerful Jutsus. The game also features tag-fighting mechanics, allowing players to form teams of three characters and execute devastating Combination Ultimate Jutsus. Additionally, the simplified control scheme provides a more accessible experience, catering to both newcomers and seasoned players.
Expanding the Roster and Gameplay
With over 130 characters from Naruto’s history, Naruto X Boruto offers an expansive roster for fans to choose from. The game also introduces new characters from the Boruto series, presenting fresh gameplay opportunities. From Naruto’s Nine-tailed Fox transformation to Jigen’s Otsotsuki power, the battles are filled with over-the-top, flashy combat moves and epic spectacles.
Exploring the Stories
In addition to the extensive gameplay options, Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections features two story modes. History Mode allows players to relive iconic moments from the original Naruto series, providing nostalgia for longtime fans. Special Story Mode focuses on pivotal battles from the Boruto anime, offering an enticing entry point for newcomers to the franchise.
The Rise of Boruto
Boruto, the successor to Naruto, has been gradually gaining popularity among fans. Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections aims to capitalize on this trend by introducing players to Boruto’s story and potentially sparking interest in watching the anime or reading the manga. While it may not reach the same heights as its predecessor, the game acknowledges Boruto’s growing popularity and dedicates a Special Story Mode to his adventures.
A Platform for Shonen Anime
The 3D arena fighter subgenre has proven to be a successful platform for adapting shonen anime series. From Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi to Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm, these games offer thrilling action and faithful character portrayals. Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections enters this lineup as a game that stays true to the source material and provides enjoyable gameplay for fans of the franchise.
Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections is set to release later this year for PlayStation platforms, Xbox consoles, PC, and Nintendo Switch.