3 Ninjas Kick Back did a decent enough job of breaking the cycle of poor licensed video games. It’s not perfect, but it won’t waste your time. The Sega CD version added a few bells and whistles to the presentation, along with a few exclusive stages, possibly making this the best version to play. If you’re looking for a solid platformer, this one is worth a look.
Author: Doug Jackson
Action Fighter
Action Fighter tried to be the Master System’s answer to Bally/Midway’s Spy Hunter, but it lacked the same charm and excitement. The result is an average game that doesn’t quite live up to its name. “Average Fighter” would perhaps have been a more accurate moniker.
Taz-Mania (Master System)
Taz appeared on just about every Sega console during the early ’90s. Some were better than others, but the often-overlooked Master System version remains one deserving of some attention. It’s not the best of the brand, but what’s there is enough to keep you interested all the way through.
Kenseiden
The Master System saw its fair share of sword-slinging action, and one game that many have overlooked is Kenseiden. Though not perfect (and quite challenging), the game is worth spending some time with. Great visuals and a variety of levels are sometimes overshadowed by the stiff gameplay, but there’s fun to be had.
My Hero
A year after its 1985 arcade debut, Sega released a home port of its beat-’em-up My Hero on the Master System. The home version kept things mostly intact, but there really wasn’t that much to preserve. Thin on gameplay and presentation, My Hero fit on a Sega card and probably left a ton of memory to spare.