How2Day: "Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2" Strategies

"Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2" is a fighting game based on a popular Japanese anime and manga series. A player must choose one of numerous characters to follow a specific story mode, which sees him put up against rival fighters in a linear narrative. Available on the Nintendo GameCube and Wii, the game mixes action and drama to create intense combat situations, where players must perform a variety of button configurations to defeat opponents.

In "Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2," the primary aim is to defeat your opponent via any form of attack -- be it kicks, punches or special moves. You must initially learn the various buttons and the moves they perform. Once comfortable with the basic kick, punch, jump and move configurations, try out combinations of these in Practice Mode on a still opponent. Then move on to the special moves -- powerful attacks that are launched by a specific button combo. The list of attacks for every character are available in the game booklet and online (see first link in References).

Since every player has specific moves and characteristics, it is important to get to know the strengths and weaknesses of each one. Some fighters are powerful if used correctly. Sasuke is a character that uses kunais in attack, with a special move of throwing them from distance. He's a mediocre fighter but good for attacks from afar.

Rock Lee is the only fighter to have two special-move attacks. However, if both are performed he is weakened significantly. Hyuuga Neji can deplete the opponent's "chakra" with some attacks, which makes him a good tactical fighter. Hyuuga Hinata can cancel her attacks at multiple levels, allowing her sudden surprise attacks -- very good for those with quick combo abilities.

Inuzuka Kiba is a good all-rounder with solid short- and long-range attacks. Nara Shikamaru is a powerful fighter with strong combos. Yamanaka Ino is fast but vulnerable to counter-strikes. Iruka has one powerful offense: the "Shuriken," which causes damage even if blocked. Haku is one of the strongest fighters because of his powerful combos. He is hard to master but deadly with good timing.

When involved in combat, you should consider distance. All players have long- and short-range attacks, so evaluate your opponent and judge what range he is most vulnerable at. Enemies with strong kicks or throws should be fought at distance, preferably with missiles or distance combos. For those vulnerable at close range, such as Ino, blocking strikes is vital. Guard against initial attacks by timing them then, unleash a combo immediately after for maximum damage.

How2Day