In an exciting update for retro gaming fans, Ninja Five-O, a beloved GameBoy Advance title, is making a comeback on modern platforms with minimal modifications. Released all the way back in 2003, this game has held a special place in the hearts of many due to its rarity and unique gameplay. Since it was produced in limited quantities, finding a copy of this game became quite a challenge. But now, thanks to recent developments, gamers today will have a chance to enjoy what has been one of the industry’s hidden treasures.
Interestingly, the game is also known as Ninja Cop in certain markets. The “Five-O” part of its name was strategically used for marketing in North America and Europe, cleverly playing on the famous ’60s television series “Hawaii Five-O.” Developed by Hudson Software, the game never reached shelves in Japan for reasons that remain unclear. Despite its regional availability, it still managed to become one of the rarest GBA titles around, with some copies selling for over $1,000 on auction sites like eBay.
Konami has confirmed that Ninja Five-O will be listed for sale on platforms such as PS4, PS5, Switch, and Steam starting February 25. While physical copies have been priced at $34.99, securing one might be a bit tough, as even the $79.99 Collector’s Editions have already sold out. Those preferring a digital experience can pre-order the game for the lower price of $21.24. However, don’t expect any drastic changes. This isn’t a remake—it keeps the original controls and graphics, albeit with a few tweaks to make it more user-friendly.
Limited Run Games is the name behind this re-release, handling it for Konami. While longtime fans may find this version’s minimal updates disappointing, it does come with two notable improvements: a Quick Save option and an instant rewind feature. Quick Save lets you jump in and out of the game without the hassle of checkpoints, making it more accessible for players with tight schedules. Meanwhile, the instant rewind, reminiscent of mechanics from games like “Prince of Persia,” allows players to wind back time by five seconds—a handy trick for those tricky platforming sections.
For many fans, this upcoming release could have been so much more, with many hoping for a full-blown remake. Yet, there’s a silver lining. This re-release grants a wider audience the opportunity to explore one of the finest action-platformers of its era. Prior to this, only those ready to shell out big bucks or turn to emulators could experience it. Now, acquiring the game is as simple as buying any modern title, offering newcomers a nostalgic journey or a glimpse into the gaming style of two decades ago.
With Ninja Five-O, players dive into the adventurous role of Joe Osugi, a detective who uses his ninja skills to thwart crime and bring justice to the city of Zipangu. The game is famous for its diverse attack modes and the ability to play through levels in Time Trial mode, encouraging gamers to complete stages within set time limits. The addition of the save-anytime feature and the rewind option promises to enhance the player experience even further, allowing newcomers and veterans alike to enjoy this classic.
