The smashingly-fun arena brawler, Ninjala, has seemingly become one of the most popular and enjoyable multiplayer romps for Switch this year. With its colorful style and unique mechanics, the game is an entertaining alternative to other kid-friendly shooters like Splatoon and brawlers like ARMS. Given its emphasis on button-mashing combat, the multiplayer combat seems pretty simple on the surface. Yet, there's more strategy to this gum-laden ninja showdown than it lets on. Part of this is on account of the vast lineup of distinct weapons.
While the 12 weapons fall under 3 main categories - Katanas, Hammers, and Yo-Yos - each has their own nuances and abilities tethered to them. Thus, it can be tough to figure out which are best suited for newbies, and which tend to be trickier, and best handled by veterans. This list will highlight 5 of the best beginner-friendly weapons, along with those tougher ones that pros can get the most out of.
10 Beginner: SK8 Hammer
Generally speaking, the hammer weapon class can be a bit dicey for newcomers of the Ninjala scene, as these are heavy weapons that bog down the movement of the player somewhat. Still, if there was a hammer that a less-seasoned player may want to try, it would be the SK8.
It offers extra armor which will mitigate the onslaught of damage that's likely to come your way in the heat of battle. It has the benefit of being a tanky weapon while not being that slow with a 95 speed stat. The Gum Net ability is also fairly easy to use and deceptively effective.
9 Pro: Sushi Axe
This one is similar to the previous entry in some ways, though its abilities are a bit tougher to handle, by and large. Not only does it come with low mobility, but abilities like Gum Grenade and Ninja Tornado may not be too easy for newbies to time and aim properly.
Also - the Power Buster Special move can be effective but takes a degree of strategy to pull off effectively. Still, it certainly comes with a uniquely amusing theme.
8 Beginner: Corn Bat
Speaking of interesting weapon themes - how about a large bat that resembles an ear of buttery corn on the cob? Though this is sort of the oddball of the Katana class, it should be pretty simple for most less-experienced players to manage. Despite its goofy exterior, this thing can be deceptively powerful if used properly.
Firstly, this weapon sports some decent range -and this includes its powerful Dragon Lord Gum Ninjutsu. Between this and the homing Gum Launcher, this is a smart choice for those who want to deal some damage while staying somewhat out of the fray.
7 Pro: Drum Beat
This is one of the better weapons in the game if it's in practiced hands, though it can definitely take some getting used to. It's really the ultimate tank weapon, which would seem to support newbies. Yet, its mobility is so slow at 90 that it tends to negate that advantage for many players.
Still, the combination of abilities can make this a devastating musical weapon if timed and positioned correctly. The Feedback and Up Tempo moves can really work to disrupt an enemy team, while the potent Dragon Lord can finish them off.
6 Beginner: Shinobi Spinner
As is the case with many here, there's a degree of subjectivity to this - as the Yo-Yos do take some getting used to. Still, despite their funky nature and lack of health, the boost in mobility can definitely make it easier on newbies. The increased speed can allow them to more easily escape skirmishes they don't feel comfortable fighting.
And while Katanas are usually a safer bet for beginners, this is probably the Yo-Yo to choose for those who want to give this class a shot. The Gum Net ability is fairly simple, yet effective, and its range can make it easier to land hits.
5 Pro: Iron Noise
Viewed by some as the best heavy weapon in the game, the Iron Noise can really pack a punch and comes with a range of unique abilities. This makes it pretty versatile in battle, but perhaps overwhelming to beginners.
The "Fujiyama Rocket" Gum Ninjutsu, when timed correctly, can be a very powerful and effective move. In fact, it can take out multiple targets at the same time. The Feedback move can also be used strategically to speed up cooldown and spam the bothersome Echoing Scream.
4 Beginner: Scroll Blade
This weapon manages to be pretty well rounded and easy to handle, while also having some impactful abilities. The Gum Shoot called Gum Kunai will target opponents automatically, and the weapon covers a decent amount of ground at close range, making it relatively simple mechanically.
Its balance of health and speed (300 and 100, respectively) makes this a good choice to jump in with when getting acquainted with the mechanics.
3 Pro: Ninja Yo-Yo
Though this one has some overlap with the Shinobi Spinner, it's a bit more tailored to fast maneuvering, strategy, and countering opponents' moves. These traits tend to be more of a fit for seasoned players.
The Yo-Yo Leap special allows players to warp around the map and blindside opponents. Meanwhile, the "Piercing Mixer" Gum Ninjutsu allows players to counter foes that may be sneaking around and going for an ambush.
2 Beginner: IPPON Katana
This is really the definitive, jack-of-all-trades weapon for most players. It's basically like the equivalent of the Octane and Dominus in Rocket League, in that it can be used pretty effectively by beginners and more seasoned players.
It sits in the middle with a health stat of 300 and a speed of 100. For one, its Gum Launcher is pretty "straightforward," so to speak. Then there's Charging Slash, which improves mobility, allowing players to initiate a fight or duck out of one swiftly.
1 Pro: Drill Beast
This one is definitely unique compared to the others in its class, especially the IPPON and Scroll. With a limited range and distinct abilities that can be tricky, this one's best left for the Ninjala veterans.
Not only is the Gum Grenade somewhat tough to aim, but the Drill also emphasizes stealth and tactical moves - with Miracle Charge and Stealth Attack, as well as its "Here and There" special. However, Punishing Blade can be devastating if executed right, so those who can build up their S-Energy fast will get a lot out of this. It's best to train with this one before diving into an online showdown.