As much as we loved the old Tenchu games on PS1, sometimes you need to start over to recapture the magic.
That’s what veteran Japanese dev ACQUIRE appears to be doing with Yakoh Shinobi Ops, a new PS5 co-op game which can best be described as Tenchu-like.
The big twist here is the four-player component, which seems wildly ambitious for a “hardcore stealth action game”.
The press release explains that you’ll need to “synchronize with your fellow Shinobi and fade into the darkness to avoid detection”. It adds: “A split-second misstep can cost Shinobi their lives. Search for clues and make your way deep into the enemy’s stronghold.”
Each Shinobi will have access to unique abilities, including grappling hooks and smoke screens. You’ll need to understand your role to complement your teammates and progress.
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The press release continues:
“Merely completing the operation isn’t enough. Shinobi must return alive to truly fulfil their duty. Avoid the spectre of death and make a desperate escape. Work together with your team and use every method at your disposal to escape – to survive. Overcoming such trials is the way of the Shinobi.”
The game’s not due out until 2027, but seems wildly ambitious and a pretty unique premise overall.
It’ll be interesting to see how this works in co-op, because while we could imagine the game being immensely satisfying when played properly, it’s going to be irritating when some players lose patience and just run out into the open, isn’t it?
Let’s wait for more information to see how it balances co-operative play.