The PlayStation 2's fourth Ultimate Ninja game is the first to be set in the Naruto: Shippuden sequel storyline, taking place after the hero has undergone years of training and featuring allies and villains who are more powerful than they were in the original Naruto animé series -- and at least a little bit wiser, as well. The action focuses on one-on-one, 3D fighting. The game's control scheme is similar to that of earlier Ultimate Ninja games, with button-presses that translate to punches, kicks, and powerful chakra attacks. Between bouts, players can explore Naruto's world and interact with other heroes and villains in an RPG-style "Master" mode, where there are quests to complete, new characters and areas to unlock, and the chance to level up fighters with new and more powerful attacks and defenses. Ultimate Ninja 4: Naruto Shippuden deals a full deck of 52 playable heroes and villains from the latter-day animé series, including several hidden and unlockable fighters.