If you have been waiting to pick up the reboot of Sega's legendary ninja series, the barrier to entry just got significantly lower. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is currently 30% off for both Standard and Deluxe Editions, but the discount isn't the only headline here. Sega has revealed a bizarre and brilliant roadmap for upcoming DLC that turns the game into a celebration of the publisher's history.
The Mad Dog of Shimano Meets the Ninja
The upcoming "SEGA Villains Stage DLC," slated for launch in early 2026, introduces a crossover lineup that sounds like a fan-fiction fever dream in the best way possible. Players will face off against three iconic antagonists from completely different genres:
- Dr. Eggman (Sonic the Hedgehog)
- Death Adder (Golden Axe)
- Goro Majima (Yakuza / Like a Dragon)
For a game focused on precise, stealth-based combat and timing, these additions suggest some interesting mechanical shifts. Death Adder fits the high-fantasy aesthetic of Shinobi naturally, likely offering a heavy, armor-clad boss fight similar to the base game's tougher encounters. Dr. Eggman, presumably piloting one of his mechs, will likely force players to utilize verticality and aerial combos to hit a moving weak point.
Majima is the wildcard. Translating his erratic, fast-paced dagger combat into a 2D side-scrolling boss fight presents a unique challenge for the developers at Lizardcube. If his AI mimics his "Mad Dog" fighting style, expect a fight that demands rapid parrying and reflex-heavy dodging rather than stealth.
Is the Deluxe Edition worth it now?
With the 30% discount active, the Deluxe Edition becomes a much more attractive proposition for players looking ahead. This version includes the SEGA Villains Stage DLC automatically upon its release next year. If you plan on tackling these legacy bosses, grabbing the Deluxe version during this sale window secures that future content at a reduced price.
While the crossover content doesn't drop until early 2026, the current sale makes this the optimal time to jump in and master the core mechanics before Majima arrives to test your reflexes.