Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Hands-on Preview

The Playstation 3 is last of the current crop of home consoles to receive a game based on the Japanese anime, Naruto. Was the game worth the wait? Find out in this hands-on preview of Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm for the Playstation 3.

Story
As a Japanese anime game, Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm will faithfully follow the story from the television show. It will cover up to the first 135 episodes, a little more than five seasons worth of storylines.

Graphics
Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm is probably the best looking cel-shaded game ever created. The vibrant color is enhanced thanks to the high-definition resolution. The graphics looks so smooth (the blur effect is remarkable) that you can argue that it is looks better than the actual animated show.

Sound
Fans of the anime will be happy to hear that the game will feature dual language support for English and Japanese voice-overs.

Gameplay
Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm is not your typical fighting game since you only have one attack button. You won't need to remember any complicated attack combinations in this game.

To deal huge damage, you have to rely on using the Ultimate Jutsu. You will build up the Storm Guage every time you successfully attack your enemy. When it becomes full, you can unleash a devastating and awe-inspiring attack.

Attacks in Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm aren't just limited to a bunch of kicks and punches either. You can also use items to set traps and add support. In addition, you can call up to two friends to help you attack the enemy momentarily.

If the fight isn't going your way, you can activate the Awakening Mode when your health is low. Your character will transform and will become more powerful than ever. Keep in mind that you must have the maximum amount of charka in order to do this move.

While Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm may not seem deep initially due to the lack of attacking options, the real depth comes when you figure out how to use items, support characters and special moves. The gameplay is more like Super Smash Bros. Brawl than Virtua Fighter.