Introduction
I still remember the exact day I first popped Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special into my Nintendo Wii. The familiar sound of the Naruto opening music hit, and I was instantly pulled back into a world of chakra-charged battles, anime rivalries, and frantic controller shaking. If you’re anything like me—a kid who grew up watching Naruto and reenacting jutsu signs during lunch breaks—then this game probably holds a special spot in your memory too.
But here’s the thing: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special isn’t the most well-known Naruto game. It didn’t make waves like Ultimate Ninja Storm. It didn’t get widespread global release like Clash of Ninja Revolution. And yet, it has its own devoted fanbase. Why? Because despite its flaws (and there are some), it delivered something we all secretly wanted—fast, skill-based, anime-accurate ninja fighting.
In this deep dive, we’ll revisit this cult classic. We’ll talk mechanics, characters, comparisons, nostalgia, and why this game—yes, this one—deserves way more credit than it gets.
Understanding Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special
What Is Gekitō Ninja Taisen! All About?
First, some context. Gekitō Ninja Taisen! is a long-running Japanese fighting game series based on the Naruto anime and manga. Developed by Eighting and published by Takara Tomy, this series focused on 3D fighting mechanics that were easy to learn, yet hard to master. Special was a 2010 Wii-exclusive installment, and part of the Naruto Shippūden storyline.
Unlike more cinematic Naruto games (cough Ultimate Ninja Storm), this title emphasized tight, responsive gameplay and team-based mechanics. You could pit Naruto against Sasuke in high-speed combat, tag in Kakashi, and pull off Ultimate Jutsu with the flick of your wrist. Think of it as a more gameplay-first approach to Naruto gaming.
Where This Game Fits in the Naruto Franchise
Within the broader narutosenkiapk.net franchise—which includes anime, manga, movies, novels, merch, and dozens of video games—Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special represents the tail end of the Clash of Ninja / Ninja Taisen line. These games were rooted in Japanese fighting game traditions, closer to Super Smash Bros. than to a typical arena brawler.
While not as flashy as the Storm series, it belonged to a niche of anime video games that prioritized depth and mechanics over spectacle. It was also a part of the Nintendo Wii library, though it sadly never saw release outside Japan in its original form.
Release Details & Platform
Released in 2010, Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special was developed specifically for the Nintendo Wii and never made it to other platforms. It was a Wii exclusive title, and unlike the EX titles that came before it, it streamlined mechanics and added new characters from later in the Shippūden arc.
It wasn’t developed by CyberConnect2 (who handled the Storm series), but rather by Eighting, known for their work on other anime-based fighting games like Bleach: Heat the Soul.
🎮 Game Requirements Table
| Platform | Minimum Requirements | Recommended Requirements | Notes |
| 🕹️ Nintendo Wii (Original Console) | – Nintendo Wii console- Wii Remote & Nunchuk OR GameCube controller- Original Japanese game disc or ISO- Japanese Wii or soft-modded Wii (for non-JP users) | – Wii Classic Controller or GameCube Controller (for precision)- External memory card (to save data) | Japanese-only game: menus & dialogue are in Japanese |
| 💻 PC (Dolphin Emulator) | – OS: Windows 7 (64-bit), macOS 10.13+, or Linux- CPU: Intel Core i3 (2nd Gen) or AMD FX-4300– GPU: Intel HD Graphics 4000 or equivalent- RAM: 4 GB- Dolphin Emulator 5.0+ | – OS: Windows 10/11, macOS Ventura, Linux- CPU: Intel Core i5 (9th Gen) or AMD Ryzen 5 3600- GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti / AMD RX 560 or better- RAM: 8 GB+- GameCube-style controller (e.g., USB adapter or Wii U GC adapter)- Dolphin Emulator (latest stable or dev build) | Requires legally obtained game ISO. Emulator allows upscaling to 1080p/4K.Game runs at 60 FPS on most modern hardware. |
Important Notes:
- This game was never released outside of Japan, so any non-Japanese Wii users will need:
- A modded Wii OR
- The Dolphin emulator to play a dumped or patched ISO
- There are English fan patches available in some communities that translate the UI and menus.
- Wii Motion Controls can be emulated but are more easily handled with a GameCube or Pro-style controller.
- Dolphin emulator allows HD rendering, controller mapping, and save states, making it the best modern way to experience the game.
Gameplay Mechanics and Core Features
Combat System and Battle Modes
One of the strongest aspects of Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special was its combat system. The game used a 3D plane, allowing sidestepping, backdashing, and aerial dodging. Each character had chakra-based attacks, a grab, projectile, and a few devastating combo chains. It supported multiplayer mode for up to 4 players (locally), and offered both single-player campaign and versus modes.
The Naruto vs Sasuke gameplay dynamic was often used in the story mode and felt well-balanced—both had unique move sets, with Naruto favoring close-range brawls and Sasuke mastering spacing and jutsu timing.
Control Scheme and Wii Integration
Let’s talk controls—because, let’s be honest, Wii motion controls were either a novelty or a nightmare depending on the game. In Gekitō Ninja Taisen!, you could use the Wiimote/Nunchuk combo or plug in a GameCube controller for a more traditional experience.
Performing an Ultimate Jutsu sometimes meant physically slashing with the controller or executing a precise button combo. Did it always work? No. Did it feel epic when it did? Absolutely.
The control scheme was one of the more polarizing features. While motion controls made battles more interactive, many players (myself included) stuck with the GC controller for its consistency—especially in combo chains.
Visual Effects and Special Moves
Graphically, this game wasn’t trying to wow with HD visuals. But the visual effects for special moves were charming in their own right. Chakra attacks burst with cel-shaded flair. Characters’ movements mimicked anime animation styles. Sure, the resolution was Wii-limited, but it captured the energy of the anime surprisingly well.
Ultimate Jutsus were short cinematic attacks that reflected key moments from the show—Naruto’s Rasenshuriken, Sasuke’s Chidori, Kakashi’s Lightning Blade—all animated faithfully.
Character Roster and Progression
Fan Favorites and Unlockables
The character roster was a highlight. It featured a robust lineup, from core characters like Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura, and Kakashi, to lesser-seen characters like Kiba, Sai, Hinata, and even Asuma.
Unlocking characters required completing different story arcs or challenges, which made progression feel rewarding. Some of the unlockables—like Killer Bee and Minato—were fan favorites and added depth to the gameplay. If you’re the type who gets a kick out of unlocking every last hidden fighter, this was your jam.
How Characters Differ Mechanically
What impressed me most was how different each character felt. Naruto’s fighting style focused on multi-hit melee attacks and clones. Sasuke leaned on ranged jutsus and speed. Hinata was great for counterplay. Kakashi had versatile tools and a long combo tree.
Mastering chakra attacks, combo chains, and ninja techniques gameplay with each character gave the game replay value well beyond the story mode.
The Evolution from Previous Games
Compared to earlier titles like Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! EX 3 or Clash of Ninja Revolution 3, this game refined the combat formula. It improved combo buffering, introduced tighter hitboxes, and added a handful of new mechanics.
Fans of Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm often preferred the visuals and drama of that series, but mechanically, Gekitō Ninja Taisen! had the better core gameplay loop.
Storyline and Anime Integration
How the Game Reflects the Shippūden Plot
Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special roughly covers the early Naruto Shippūden story arc—just before and during the hunt for the Akatsuki. It doesn’t go deep into storytelling, but the storyline progression is solid enough to give context to battles.
Characters have intro dialogues and cutscenes that reflect the anime’s tone, and the anime integration is clear in both visuals and voice work (Japanese audio only, no dub).
Notable Battles and Cutscenes
Some of my favorite moments? The Naruto vs Sasuke fight during the Orochimaru hideout arc. The Sasuke boss fight was a solid challenge. Cutscenes were short but snappy, often used as pre-battle intros or victory sequences.
The Ultimate Jutsus brought dramatic flair—Naruto’s Rasengan animation and Sasuke’s lightning-infused finisher still hold up surprisingly well today.
Multiplayer and Competitive Play
Local Multiplayer Features
Multiplayer was a blast. Up to 4 players could fight in chaotic brawls. The game used player-vs-player mechanics with limited but effective team battles. You could switch characters mid-fight or support your main with side characters.
Unlike other multiplayer fighting games, this one didn’t rely on online. So if you had friends over—and a few GameCube controllers—it was instant fun.
The Competitive Scene (or Lack Thereof)
Sadly, Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special never gained much traction in the competitive scene. The lack of an online mode hurt its potential. That said, the game has a loyal niche fanbase that organizes small tournaments and still discusses Gekitō Ninja Taisen controls, balance, and hidden mechanics on forums.
How It Compares to Other Naruto Games
Gekitō Ninja Taisen! vs Ultimate Ninja Storm
This is the age-old comparison: mechanics vs visuals. Ultimate Ninja Storm, developed by CyberConnect2, was flashy. It had sweeping cinematic sequences, giant boss battles, and anime-accurate story arcs. But when it came to gameplay depth? Honestly, it was more spectacle than strategy.
On the other hand, Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special prioritized tight controls, precise hitboxes, and combo-based mechanics. It wasn’t perfect, but if you cared about gameplay over story cutscenes, this was the better choice. You didn’t just mash buttons—you had to learn your characters.
Clash of Ninja Evolution
If you’ve played Clash of Ninja Revolution 3, you’ll find this game feels like its spiritual successor. In fact, many call Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special the real Revolution 4, especially since the Gekitō Ninja Taisen controls evolved naturally from the prior titles.
The combat system was tightened. Jutsu timings were more responsive. The character roster grew smarter, with better-balanced matchups. Where Revolution 3 felt a bit rushed, Special felt more refined.
The Legacy of Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special
Why It’s a Cult Classic
Despite being Wii-exclusive and Japan-only, this game still has a loyal fanbase. Why? Because it focused on gameplay first.
In an era where most anime video games were flashy but shallow, Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special delivered satisfying, replayable combat. It sits comfortably in the broader Naruto video game series and deserves recognition alongside more popular titles.
This game represents a forgotten gem in the Nintendo Wii library—a must-play for fans of fast-paced anime fighters and couch multiplayer.
What Modern Games Can Learn from It
Here’s a wild thought: Maybe not everything needs to be open-world, 4K, and loaded with microtransactions. Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special teaches that simple mechanics, fast pacing, and local multiplayer can still hold value in 2025.
Modern developers—especially those creating anime-based game collections—could revisit this formula. Bring back the tight 3D fighting systems, team dynamics, and unlockable rosters. Add rollback netcode, and you’d have a modern-day classic.
How-To Guide — Mastering the Game
How to Unlock All Characters
Here’s the thing: Not every character is available right away—and that’s a good thing. Earning them feels satisfying. Here’s how to unlock key characters:
- Killer Bee: Complete arcade mode with Naruto, Sasuke, and Jiraiya.
- Minato Namikaze: Finish survival mode with no losses.
- Itachi (Eternal Mangekyō version): Defeat 100 enemies in Time Attack.
The game doesn’t spoon-feed you unlocks. It encourages exploration, mastery, and replayability.
How to Perform Ultimate Jutsus
There are two ways to activate Ultimate Jutsu:
- Motion Controls (Wiimote/Nunchuk):
- Charge your chakra gauge by holding the down button.
- Swing the Wiimote in a specific pattern when prompted.
- GameCube Controller:
- Input a specific combo (e.g., A → Down → A → Up + Special).
If your controller is unresponsive? Try using the GC controller for precision. The Wii motion controls are fun, but not tournament-friendly.
How to Dominate in Team Battles
Team battles are where strategy shines. Here’s what works:
- Character synergy: Pair a fast attacker like Rock Lee with a defensive support like Shino.
- Switch wisely: Don’t button mash. Switch to disrupt an enemy combo or recover chakra.
- Use assists: Each support has an assist jutsu. Master it. A well-timed assist can turn the tide.
Team battles reward timing, planning, and practice—not just flashy moves.
More Realated Games
Common Questions About the Game (Q&A)
Was Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special released outside Japan?
Unfortunately, no. It was a Japan-only title, though fans in the West imported it and even translated the menus. If you’re curious, there are patched ISOs with English text available through fan communities
Can you still play it on modern systems?
Yes—with some work. You’ll need:
- A soft-modded Nintendo Wii or Wii U
- Dolphin emulator (PC/Mac)
- A ROM file of the game (you must legally own a copy)
Using Dolphin, you can even upscale the visuals to 1080p or 4K.
How is it different from Ultimate Ninja Storm?
Storm is cinematic. Gekitō Ninja Taisen! is mechanical. That’s the biggest difference.
- Storm: Flashy, story-driven, easier for casual play
- Taisen: Tight controls, team-based fights, rewards skill and practice
Is it worth playing in 2025?
Absolutely—if you’re into classic fighting games. It might feel dated if you’re used to AAA polish, but for fans of the genre or Naruto purists, it’s a must-play.
Which Naruto game is best for beginners?
Honestly? Probably Ultimate Ninja Storm 4. But if you want something more technical, with less fluff and more fighting? Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special is a solid pick—just be prepared to learn the systems.
Conclusion
So, is Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special a hidden gem? In my opinion—absolutely. It’s not perfect. It doesn’t have global recognition. And you’ll need to jump through hoops to play it. But once you do? You’ll discover one of the most underrated entries in the Naruto video game series.
It captures the essence of the anime without trying too hard. It makes you feel like a ninja. And above all, it respects your time as a gamer.
I’ve played just about every Naruto game out there—from Storm to Rise of a Ninja to even that weird DS RPG. But Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special? It’s the one I keep coming back to. Not for the graphics. Not for the story. But for the pure fun of the fight.
