So, here it is. As my loyal readers (all three of you) may know, its been a few days since my last article. Well, it's been a tossup of what to write about. Now, two nights ago, I had my toenail removed. So, I figured I COULD talk about the currently blood encrusted and puss covered toe (Dont you just love my mental imagery, folks?) since really, the fact that I am forced off my feet has left me with some free time to write this article. However, I'll spare you this topic, since I'm so merciful. I could also talk about the greatness that is City of Heroes, but that would take valuable talk time away from TheLazarus. I could also talk about the Ryzom beta, but considering that I am still waiting in line for it to download (After waiting three hours to get to download it for what was supposed to be a 34 minute wait, thanks FilePlanet, you f**kers!) I have decided not to. Instead, I will talk about my newest gaming Aquisition, Ninja Gaiden for the X-Box.

Let me begin by saying that Ninja Gaiden is one of the best friggin console games, EVER. First of all, the game is just downright Beautiful. From the varied area's (Consisting of places like a japanese dojo, a blimp, a large city, and an egyptian tomb) to the enemies (from Ninja's, to Armored troops and tanks, to giant zombie humanoids and clawed fiends) this game is crawling with some of the sweetest graphics around. And the enemies dont just gush red stuff either, as some of the otherworldy enemies explode in a thick greenish yellow gore. And of course you cant forget the beautiful waterfalls and old tombs you'll be running through either. Meanwhile, you play one of the most badass Ninja's to walk the earth. From the varied weaponry of Ryu (Bows, Shuriken, Swords, and even bladed nunchucks) and his magic abilities (Like the ever classic Art of the Fire Wheel) to his insane fighting moves and downright skills.

Running across walls and water, acrobatics, and some nasty ass fight moves, Ryu has it all. And your gonna have to use it all, as Ninja Gaiden is also one of the hardest games EVER. The first boss alone had me questioning my Manhood before finally beating him, and you WILL get Skooled. However, the beauty is, is that the more you adjust to fighting, the better you get. This is what really makes the game, as each time you get better and better, and earn new ways of bringing a painfull beating to rain down on your foes. And damn, do you look good while doing it. Of course, all roses have their thorns, and Ninja Gaiden has one thing that is a bleamish on its otherwise remarkable record... The camera. Although it is not the worst camera to grace gaming, its not the best, either, and every so often you WILL feel the sting of it. However, its not enough to bring the game down. Simply put, even with the occasional camera problems, with the beauty, plethora of fighting moves, and even the ability to unlock all THREE of the NES Ninja Gaidens, this trip is one NO X-Box owner should miss out on.