Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 - Road to Boruto Expansion for Xbox One is a mixed bag that attempts to extend the Naruto gaming franchise but falls short of its potential. As an experienced retro gaming journalist, I commend the dedication of Bandai Namco Games and CyberConnect2 in staying true to the source material and capturing the essence of the Naruto universe. However, despite the nostalgic feel that the game evokes, there are several flaws that prevent it from living up to its predecessors.
One aspect that stands out in the Road to Boruto Expansion is the visual presentation. The cel-shaded graphics lend themselves well to recreating the anime aesthetic, and the cutscenes are incredibly well done, immersing players in the Naruto universe. The attention to detail in character models and environments is admirable, evoking a sense of nostalgia for avid fans of the series.
However, while the visuals may be top-notch, the gameplay leaves much to be desired. The combat system, which forms the core of the game, feels repetitive and lacks the depth and complexity that one would expect from a fighting game. The limited move set and shallow combo system hinder the overall experience, making battles feel monotonous and lacking in strategic depth.
Furthermore, the AI opponents in Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 - Road to Boruto Expansion are disappointingly unchallenging. Even on higher difficulty settings, battles feel more like button-mashing exercises rather than engaging encounters that require skill and tactical prowess. This lack of challenge may deter more experienced players from fully immersing themselves in the game, diminishing the overall replay value.
In terms of content, the Road to Boruto Expansion offers an adequate amount of story-driven missions and side quests that effectively expand upon the Naruto narrative. It is clear that the developers have put effort into crafting a cohesive and immersive story experience. However, the pacing of the campaign can feel sluggish at times, with certain missions feeling like unnecessary filler, detracting from the overall enjoyment.
It is worth noting that fans of the Naruto franchise may find some satisfaction in the Road to Boruto Expansion, as it offers a glimpse into the future of the series with the introduction of Boruto, Naruto's son. The addition of new playable characters and new jutsu techniques provides a fresh twist on the gameplay, breathing some life into an otherwise stagnant experience.
In conclusion, Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 - Road to Boruto Expansion for Xbox One is a game that exhibits both nostalgia-inducing qualities and disappointing flaws. While the visual presentation successfully captures the essence of the Naruto universe, the shallow gameplay and lack of challenge hinder its overall enjoyment. For die-hard Naruto fans, this expansion may offer some entertainment value, but for those seeking a deep and engaging fighting experience, there are more fulfilling options available.
