June 26^th, 2006 (12:43pm) - Video game publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that Naruto: Ultimate Ninja is now available in retail stores for the PlayStation 2.

This intense fighting game is based on the hit anime series, SHONEN JUMP’s NARUTO, from VIZ Media airing on the Cartoon Network. Aspiring ninjas can now compete in fierce hand-to-hand combat or use deadly ranged weapons in order to become the greatest ninja of all. With multiple game modes, unique 2-D interactive stages and incredible multi-level super attacks, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja provides an intense fighting experience that will test any gamer’s chakra.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja features blazing single and multiplayer ninja battles that bring the colorful series to life. Fans can play as their favorite characters including Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Rock Lee, Shikamaru, Kakashi and more, and can summon support characters for super attacks and special items. With fighting moves based on the animation series, a variety of ninja fighting techniques are at player’s disposal, including ranged weapon attacks and close combat moves. When the timing is right, players also have the ability to switch stages mid-combat, with 12 interactive stages based on the hit series available to choose from. Naruto: Ultimate Ninja array of game modes allows players to follow their favorite character’s storyline, accomplish specific missions or battle it out against a friend. Secret characters, movies and other unlockable features further immerse fans in the ultimate NARUTO experience!

Developed by CyberConnect 2, known for the .hack series, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB.