Hayate
A young ninja and the game's protagonist. He uses shuriken, a sword, magic, and ninja movement techniques.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move and crouch |
|---|---|
A | Throw a shuriken |
B | Slash with the sword |
C | Jump |
How it plays
How does Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi play?
The game uses a side-scrolling, two-dimensional perspective. Hayate advances through urban and industrial stages, defeats enemies, avoids traps, and reaches a boss at the end of each area.
Players can throw shuriken, slash nearby targets with a sword, jump across platforms, and command Yamato to restrain or attack certain enemies. Limited magic techniques provide powerful screen-clearing attacks. Progression is stage-based, with enemy patterns, hazards, and boss behavior becoming more demanding.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi?
Learn enemy placement rather than rushing. Use Yamato to control dangerous targets, then finish them safely with shuriken or the sword.
Save magic for bosses or crowded sections, and keep moving near projectile enemies. Practice each boss's attack pattern and avoid jumping blindly into hazards.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Yamato
Hayate's trained ninja dog, which can attack or immobilize enemies and is central to the game's combat system.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockNo reliable cheats or unlock conditions are listed.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use Yamato before entering groups of enemies.
- 2
Keep a safe distance and use shuriken against enemies that are difficult to approach.
- 3
Do not spend magic early unless a section is especially crowded.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0