Tenchū (天誅?) is a innovative series of stealth ninja games where the player assumes the role of a pair of Azuma Ninja. The title is a Japanese term whose English translation is heaven's punishment or Divine Punishment; with 天 (ten) meaning heaven and 誅 (chū) meaning death penalty. Tenchu was created by Takuma Endo, president of the Acquire studio.
Aside from its stealth gameplay, the series is known for its setting of feudal Japan, which incorporates Japanese mythology and other fantasy elements to varying degrees. Magical elements are usually kept to a minimum, with a stronger focus on more grounded battle tactics. The first Tenchu game was the first 3D stealth video game ever released. Likewise, the series was the first mainstream ninja game series to be based around stealth, a crucial aspect of ninjutsu, historical ninjas, and the ninja mythos.
To date there are only four console entries in the mainline series. Numerous spinoffs across several home and portable game consoles, two for mobile phones, with 14 titles in total when including ports and re-releases. Tenchu games were published for the Playstation, Playstation 2, Xbox, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP, and DS gamings systems.
Story
The narratives within the "Tenchu" game series predominantly center around the dynamic duo of ninjas, Rikimaru and Ayame. Rikimaru, a towering figure with striking white hair, dons the attire of a shinobi and wields a singular ninjato blade christened as Izayoi. An unmistakable scar adorns his right eye, lending an aura of mystique to his character. On the other hand, Ayame, a skilled kunoichi, sports the quintessential ninja garb with her midriff exposed. Her chosen armament consists of a pair of Kodachi. Both Rikimaru and Ayame have shared a lifelong affiliation with the venerable Azuma Ninja Clan, fostering their exceptional ninja skills from a tender age.
These intrepid ninjas pledge their unwavering loyalty to the noble Lord Gohda, carrying out clandestine missions on his behalf. Their primary objective involves uprooting corruption and gathering vital intelligence within Lord Gohda's province. Nevertheless, a malevolent and otherworldly sorcerer known as Lord Mei-Oh emerges as a malevolent force, harboring a sinister agenda to annihilate Lord Gohda. Employing his fearsome demon warrior, Onikage, Lord Mei-Oh inflicts widespread chaos and devastation across the province under Gohda's rule. Although Lord Mei-Oh meets his demise in the inaugural game of the series, Onikage persists as a recurring antagonist throughout subsequent installments. His enduring rivalry with the two indomitable ninjas, especially Rikimaru, serves as a compelling narrative throughline.
Furthermore, the plot frequently entangles Princess Kiku, Lord Gohda's daughter, in its intricate web. Kidnapped by adversaries of Lord Gohda on multiple occasions, Princess Kiku's perilous predicaments inject a compelling element of intrigue and urgency into the unfolding storyline. The intertwined destinies of Rikimaru, Ayame, Lord Gohda, and the enigmatic forces arrayed against them create a captivating tapestry of ninja espionage, loyalty, and unrelenting conflict within the "Tenchu" universe.
Main Characters
Playable characters
- Rikimaru, a figure of great distinction within the Azuma Ninja Clan, presently holds the esteemed position of its leader. This role places him in the dedicated service of Lord Gohda. As the current head of the clan, Rikimaru is the worthy bearer of the legendary sword known as Izayoi. This cherished artifact has been passed down through generations of Azuma Clan leaders. The mantle of leadership was passed onto Rikimaru by his master and predecessor, Shiunsai. Tragically, Shiunsai met his demise at the hands of a fellow clan member, Tatsumaru, marking a sorrowful chapter in the clan's history. Rikimaru embodies qualities of unwavering dedication, unwavering honor, and an innate inclination towards introspection. His steadfast commitment to his duty is exemplified by his willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice, a testament to his resolute character. In fact, he did so at the conclusion of "Stealth Assassins," only to reappear in subsequent installments like "Wrath of Heaven" and "Return from Darkness." Beneath his stoic exterior lies a warrior who harbors no illusions about the unforgiving nature of his chosen path. He carries with him a constant reminder of his past, symbolized by the scar etched over his eye by none other than Tatsumaru. This scar serves as a poignant reminder of the unforgivable betrayal within his clan. Rikimaru's strength lies not only in his exceptional combat prowess but also in his remarkable ability to maintain composure and unwavering determination. This resilience enables him to undertake missions that others might deem suicidal, reflecting his profound sense of destiny and responsibility. Despite his imposing presence, Rikimaru harbors no mercy for his adversaries, a facet of his character that underscores the gravity of his missions and the unyielding resolve that drives him forward.
- Ayame, a formidable presence within the Azuma Ninja Clan, stands as the sole surviving member of this ancient lineage, and, much like her counterpart Rikimaru, she is wholeheartedly dedicated to the service of Lord Gohda. Her journey within the clan was set in motion under the tutelage of the former clan leader, Shiunsai. Shiunsai recognized her innate talents, noting her remarkable aptitude for quickly grasping new skills and techniques, in stark contrast to Rikimaru's more deliberate learning style. However, Ayame's journey was marked by a characteristic impatience to fully master her acquired skills, a trait that set her apart. Ayame is a warrior of undeniable prowess, possessing a ruthless and cold-hearted efficiency when it comes to dispatching her adversaries. Her lethal actions are executed without a moment's hesitation, exemplifying her commitment to her duties. Nevertheless, beneath her steely exterior lies a facet of Ayame's character that reveals a softer side. This softer side is reserved for Princess Kiku, Lord Gohda's beloved daughter, whom Ayame cherishes as if she were her sister. The deep bond between Ayame and Princess Kiku adds a layer of complexity to Ayame's character, showcasing her capacity for empathy and affection. Ayame's persona is marked by her caustic tongue, a renowned aspect of her character that matches the sharpness of her deadly blades. Her bold and swift nature harmonizes with her ability to move in silence, embodying the essence of cunning and stealth. This amalgamation of attributes renders Ayame a formidable and enigmatic presence, making her a vital asset in the ongoing quest to uphold the clan's honor and serve the cause of Lord Gohda.
Supporting Characters
- Lord Gohda Matsunoshin, a figure of great significance within the "Tenchu" series, occupies a pivotal role as the esteemed lord whom the loyal Azuma Ninja Clan faithfully serves. As the revered feudal lord of the province in which the clan resides, Lord Gohda is the embodiment of authority and leadership, commanding the unwavering allegiance of the Azuma Ninja. The Azuma Ninja Clan's commitment to Lord Gohda's service forms the bedrock of their existence, as they diligently carry out missions entrusted to them by their noble lord. His leadership and patronage provide the essential purpose and direction that guide the actions of the clan's skilled ninjas, Rikimaru and Ayame, as they strive to maintain peace, root out corruption, and safeguard the interests of their lord. Lord Gohda Matsunoshin's presence within the narrative underscores the feudal and hierarchical structure of the "Tenchu" universe, where loyalty and duty to one's lord are paramount virtues. His character symbolizes the essence of nobility and governance, setting the stage for the intricate web of espionage, intrigue, and honor that defines the world of "Tenchu."
- Princess Kiku, the cherished daughter of Lord Gohda, holds a position of considerable importance within the "Tenchu" narrative. Both tragedy and resilience mark her character as she grapples with the loss of her mother, Lady Kei, who tragically fell victim to murder during Kiku's formative years. Kiku's role extends beyond that of a mere aristocratic figurehead, as she shares a profound and affectionate bond with Ayame. This bond transcends the confines of their respective roles. Ayame, in turn, regards Kiku not merely as a ward of nobility but as a beloved younger sister. The tragic circumstances surrounding Lady Kei's demise and Kiku's resilience in the face of adversity serve as a poignant backdrop to the unfolding events within the "Tenchu" series. Kiku's character embodies themes of familial love and the enduring spirit of those who confront and surmount adversity, contributing depth and emotional resonance to the intricate tapestry of the game's storyline.
- Naotada Sekiya, a figure of paramount importance within the inner circle of Lord Gohda's administration, assumes the distinguished role of Lord Gohda's most trusted advisor. His presence within the hierarchy of Lord Gohda's domain is marked by his unwavering loyalty and dedication to his noble lord's cause. Sekiya's role extends beyond the confines of mere counsel; he stands as a critical figure who closely collaborates with the Azuma Ninja Clan, fostering a significant and enduring association with them. This connection between Sekiya and the Azuma Ninja Clan underscores the depth of trust and mutual reliance that exists within the noble lord's innermost circle. As Lord Gohda's most trusted advisor, Sekiya's wisdom and counsel carry immense weight in the decisions that shape the fate of the province. His character embodies the principles of honor, duty, and the enduring bonds of trust that underpin the intricate political landscape of the "Tenchu" universe.
- Semimaru, a loyal and integral member of the Azuma Ninja Clan, assumes a unique and indispensable role within the "Tenchu" series. This steadfast companion, in the form of a trusty dog, is a constant presence throughout nearly all the games in the series. Semimaru's essence is channeled through a valuable item known as the Dog Bone, a mystical artifact that, when employed, summons him to the aid of the ninja who wields it. Upon summoning, Semimaru immediately leaps into action, exhibiting unwavering devotion to his Azuma Ninja comrades. His primary mission is to attack and subdue their adversaries fiercely, thus offering invaluable support in the heat of battle. This distinctive gameplay element, characterized by the summoning of Semimaru through the Dog Bone item, adds a layer of strategic depth and companionship to the "Tenchu" experience. Semimaru's consistent presence underscores the profound bond between the Azuma Ninja Clan and their trusted canine ally, further enriching the immersive world of "Tenchu" with the enduring themes of camaraderie and resourcefulness.
Enemies
- Onikage, an enigmatic and shadowy figure, an accomplished ninja who once held allegiance to the malevolent Lord Mei-Oh. Throughout the course of the "Tenchu" series, he emerges as a formidable and recurring adversary, engaging in multiple confrontations with the stalwart Rikimaru. Amongst all his adversaries, Onikage reserves particular regard for Rikimaru, regarding him as his ultimate and most formidable rival. The first encounter between Onikage and the Azuma Ninja unfolded during the harrowing Burning Dawn incident, a pivotal moment where Onikage assumed the moniker of "Suzaku, the Red Sparrow." His appearance marked a turning point in the series, as Onikage became the only enduring and recurring antagonist, consistently testing the mettle of the Azuma Ninja. Onikage's enduring presence and his relentless pursuit of Rikimaru encapsulate the essence of rivalry and the unyielding determination of both characters. As the series progresses, the ongoing clashes between these two skilled ninjas serve as a central narrative thread, imbuing the "Tenchu" universe with an aura of perpetual conflict and suspense.
Other Recurring Characters
- Tatsumaru, a central and complex character within the "Tenchu" series, weaves a compelling narrative arc that encompasses both tragedy and redemption. A profound connection with the Azuma Ninja Clan and enduring relationships with Rikimaru and Ayame marks his journey. Initially, Tatsumaru held a revered position within the Azuma Ninja Clan, serving as a figure of admiration for Rikimaru and inspiring affection from Ayame. As a previous wielder of the esteemed Izayoi blade, Tatsumaru assumed leadership of the clan, guiding its members with wisdom and skill. However, a tragic turn of events led to the loss of his memory, transforming him into a formidable adversary of the very clan he once led. During this dark period, Tatsumaru's actions resulted in the loss of many lives within the clan, including the esteemed Master Shiunsai. Yet, the complexity of his character revealed itself as he eventually regained his lost memories. Confronted with the weight of his crimes, Tatsumaru engaged in a fateful battle with Ayame, culminating in an act of self-punishment through his demise. However, Tatsumaru's story takes a surprising turn as he is resurrected years later, only to be enslaved by the evil sorcerer Tenrai, who compels him to serve as one of his Lords of Darkness. Despite the darkness that envelops him, Tatsumaru manages to break free from Tenrai's influence, embarking on a path of redemption. In this newfound role, he allies with Rikimaru and Ayame, actively contributing to their mission to defeat Tenrai. Tatsumaru's journey from a revered leader to a fallen antagonist and, ultimately, a redeemed ally underscores the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring bonds that transcend even the darkest of trials within the "Tenchu" narrative. His character's evolution adds depth and emotional resonance to the series' intricate storyline.
- Tesshu Fujioka, a multifaceted character within the "Tenchu" series, embodies a unique and intriguing duality. By day, he assumes the noble profession of a doctor, dedicating his life to the healing arts. However, as night descends, Tesshu transforms into a shadowy assassin. This role sets him apart from the trained ninjas of the Azuma Clan and distinguishes him as a character with a distinct path. Tesshu's affiliation diverges from the allegiance held by Rikimaru and Ayame, as he operates as a mercenary for an underground vigilante organization known as Muzen. This clandestine group adheres to a strict code, reserving acts of murder solely when they serve the cause of justice. Tesshu's association with Muzen introduces a complex ethical dimension to his character as he grapples with the moral implications of his dual identity. His unique role within the "Tenchu" universe reflects themes of morality, justice, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Tesshu's character serves as a captivating addition to the series, challenging conventional notions of heroism and virtue while contributing to the intricately woven tapestry of the game's storyline.
- Rin, a compelling character introduced within the "Tenchu" series, carries with her a poignant and tragic backstory that drives her character development. Hailing from a hidden village that suffered the devastating fate of being reduced to ashes, Rin stands as one of the few survivors amid the wreckage, a witness to the horrifying massacre of her fellow villagers. Her initial encounter with Ayame, who happened to be in the vicinity while searching for survivors, casts a shadow of suspicion upon their interactions. Rin harbors the belief that Ayame may have played a role in the ruin of her village, setting the stage for a complex and emotionally charged relationship between the two kunoichi. Rin's combat skills and her proficiency with a sword named Natsume are noteworthy, but what truly sets her apart is her preference for unarmed combat, much like Tesshu and Tatsumaru. A profound desire for vengeance drives her unwavering determination as she embarks on a quest to avenge the tragic loss of her kin and the devastation inflicted upon her village. Rin's character encapsulates themes of resilience, justice, and the indomitable spirit of a survivor seeking retribution. Her presence adds depth to the "Tenchu" narrative, introducing layers of complexity to the storyline while exploring the facets of trust, redemption, and the enduring pursuit of justice.
Gameplay
As a stealth-centric series, "Tenchu" places a strong emphasis on executing specific objectives while evading detection by vigilant guards. The gameplay across all the games is presented from a third-person perspective. In earlier entries, the camera remained fixed behind the main character's back. At the same time, later iterations introduced a more dynamic camera that permits full rotation around the character. Upon entering the story mode, players are presented with a choice of 2-3 characters to assume the role of. Subsequently, they select a mission from a list, with missions unlocking sequentially as each prior mission is completed. Prior to embarking on a mission, players are directed to an item screen, where they make critical decisions about the gear and equipment they wish to carry with them. Essential items such as health potions and shuriken are available from the outset. At the same time, more advanced gear like disguises are unlocked as missions are completed with higher scores. Once the mission begins, players find themselves immersed in the intricate level design tasked with achieving a variety of objectives. While the primary goal in most missions revolves around assassinating specific characters, such as corrupt merchants, some missions adopt more straightforward objectives like crossing checkpoints to deliver a crucial message or rescuing individuals held captive by the enemy. As players progress through the level, they are presented with the option to eliminate guards through "stealth kills," which are lethal, one-hit takedowns executed when attacking unaware enemies. The Grappling Hook is a valuable tool for scaling buildings and avoiding enemy encounters.
The Ki Meter, positioned as a colored circle in the lower-left corner of the screen, serves as a vital tool for monitoring the awareness level of nearby guards. It changes color to indicate their state of awareness, transitioning from unaware (green) to suspicious (yellow), aware (blue), and finally, aware and in pursuit (red). The meter also displays a numerical value, ranging from 1-99, based on the proximity of the nearest guard. If no guards are nearby, the number remains hidden.
When in extreme proximity to an enemy, it maxes out at 99. Upon completing a mission, players are presented with a ranking screen. Points are allocated for mission completion and for eliminating enemies through stealth kills, with more points awarded for eliminating more foes. Conversely, points are deducted for being detected, with increasing penalties each time the player is spotted. The highest attainable rank is "Grand Master" (忍術皆伝 Ninjutsu Kaiden), and achieving this rank bestows unique rewards upon the player, with each mission offering a distinct and highly advantageous item. These unique items often include coveted tools such as invisibility scrolls or explosive arrows, enhancing the player's capabilities in subsequent missions.
Music
The musical landscape of the "Tenchu" series is a harmonious fusion of traditional Japanese musical elements interwoven with the innovative sounds of electronic synthesizers. This captivating blend encompasses an array of instruments, including plucked reed and flutes, evocative percussion, and resonant Buddhist and "traditional" chanting, crafting a sonic tapestry that transports players to the feudal landscapes of Japan.
The maestro behind most of these evocative compositions and arrangements is Noriyuki Asakura, whose creative talents breathe life into the game's musical identity. However, it is worth noting that one exception to this musical tradition exists within the series. In "Tenchu 2: Birth of the Assassins," the soundtrack diverges from the conventional approach. Instead of a comprehensive musical score, the game utilizes music pieces solely for the opening, ending, and boss battles. For the remainder of the match, atmospheric and mood-enhancing effects take precedence, contributing to the immersive ambiance of the gameplay experience. This unique marriage of traditional Japanese musical motifs and electronic synthesis underscores the rich cultural backdrop of the "Tenchu" universe while elevating the emotional depth and atmosphere of the gameplay, making it an integral and memorable component of the series.
Development History
An exciting and somewhat unconventional origin marks the inception of the "Tenchu" series. It began as a noteworthy independent game that emerged from a contest hosted by Sony Music Entertainment Japan. This competition sought to discover exceptional game developers within the independent gaming community, offering the tantalizing prize of having the winning game published by Sony Music.
Remarkably, "Tenchu" emerged triumphant in this contest, thrusting its development team, Acquire, into the spotlight and granting them newfound recognition. Activision, a prominent game publisher, took notice of the game's potential and subsequently secured ownership rights to the series, paving the way for its release in North America and Europe.
Following the release of the second installment, Activision made the strategic decision to entrust the development of the series to another studio, K2. From that point forward, K2 undertook the responsibility of creating all the main entries in the "Tenchu" series.
However, in 2004, Activision opted to transfer ownership of the series to the renowned Japanese studio From Software while retaining ownership of the titles they had previously published. Under From Software's stewardship, the first "Tenchu" game to be released was "Fatal Shadows."
Subsequently, Software appointed Sega to handle publishing duties for the series in countries outside of Japan. This arrangement, unfortunately, led to the non-release of "Time of the Assassins" in North America, as Sega chose not to release it in that particular market. A similar situation nearly transpired with "Tenchu Z," the latest entry in the series. However, Microsoft intervened and independently published the game, ensuring its availability to players. These transitions in ownership and publishing highlight the complex journey of the "Tenchu" series within the gaming industry.
| Tenchu Series |
|
Main Series Stealth Assassins • Tenchu 2 • Tenchu 3 • Tenchu 4 Portable Games Time of the Assassins • Dark Secret Other Versions and Releases Dimensional Ninja Action Movie • Shinobi Gaisen • Shinobi Hyakusen • Return from Darkness • Fatal Shadows • Tenchu Z • Shadow Assault |