Below is a possible scenario based on real data, outlining how a long-awaited The Last Ninja 4 for the Commodore 64 could be created using the works of creative contributor Robert Ramsay, while respecting the copyright protection of the original creators of the game series, System 3.
Scenario: The Last Ninja 4 – The Return
Background
The Last Ninja series is one of the most iconic titles for the Commodore 64, originally released by System 3 in 1987, followed by sequels (Last Ninja 2 in 1988 and Last Ninja 3 in 1991).
Its success stemmed from stunning isometric graphics, SID-chip-driven music, and a unique blend of adventure, puzzles, and combat. Robert Ramsay, a well-known retro game developer, previously worked on Last Ninja Redux, a PC remake built with the Unity engine that was well-received by fans. Though not an official continuation, Ramsay’s creative approach and dedication to the Commodore 64 could serve as inspiration for a new, official installment.
The current date is April 5, 2025, and the Commodore 64 community remains active, producing new games for the platform amid growing nostalgia. System 3, though less active in recent years, still holds the intellectual property (IP) rights to The Last Ninja, meaning any new installment requires their approval.
Scenario Timeline
- Idea Conception (April 2025)
Robert Ramsay, having proven his talent with Last Ninja Redux, reaches out to System 3 to propose an official fourth installment for the Commodore 64. The pitch: a game that stays true to the spirit of the original series while introducing a fresh story and challenges. Ramsay suggests a Kickstarter campaign to fund development, offering System 3 a licensing fee for the IP rights. - Legal Negotiations (May–June 2025)
System 3, recognizing the renewed interest in retro gaming (e.g., the success of the 2023-announced Last Ninja Collection), agrees to collaborate. The deal stipulates that Ramsay’s team can use the Last Ninja universe, but System 3 retains final approval over the product and receives a share of the crowdfunding revenue. Copyright protection ensures that original creators, such as Mark Cale (the series’ conceptual founder), are credited. - Design and Development (July 2025 – March 2026)
- Team Assembly: Ramsay recruits veteran Commodore 64 developers, such as Soci (a Hungarian retro developer known in the C64 community) for coding, and a SID composer like Jeroen Tel, who crafts music evoking the original series’ atmosphere.
- Story: The Last Ninja 4 follows Armakuni, the ninja protagonist, on a new quest to a forgotten island to stop an ancient sect using the secrets of the Koga scrolls to conquer the world. The narrative introduces new enemies and allies while paying homage to the original trilogy.
- Gameplay: The isometric view and classic combat mechanics remain, enhanced with new weapons (e.g., a kusarigama) and puzzles. Tailored to the Commodore 64’s limitations, the graphics emulate Hugh Riley’s (Last Ninja 2 artist) style, optimized for 64 KB of memory.
- Kickstarter Campaign (April 2026)
The campaign launches and quickly gains traction thanks to fan enthusiasm. Backers receive digital downloads, physical floppy disks, and limited-edition cassettes, plus extras like a documentary about the development process. The funding goal of £50,000 is met within a month, driven by the Commodore 64 community and retro gaming fans. - Release and Reception (December 2026)
The Last Ninja 4 launches on Commodore 64 in emulator-compatible digital format and physical media. Critics praise its balance of nostalgia and innovation, and Ramsay earns accolades from the community. System 3, pleased with the outcome, considers further expanding the series to other platforms.
Challenges and Solutions
- Copyright Hurdles: The licensing agreement with System 3 ensures Ramsay respects the original creators’ rights while retaining creative freedom.
- Technical Constraints: The Commodore 64’s 64 KB memory and SID-chip limitations pose challenges, but Ramsay’s retro development experience (e.g., Last Ninja Redux) ensures successful optimization.
- Market Risk: The retro market is niche, but crowdfunding and a passionate fanbase mitigate financial risks.
Outcome
The Last Ninja 4 enters Commodore 64 history as a worthy sequel, blending Robert Ramsay’s creative vision with System 3’s legacy. It delights longtime fans and introduces new generations to classic ninja adventures, proving that even in 2026, the Commodore 64 remains a relevant platform.
Many thanks to Robert Ramsay for inspiring me about building this great scenario – even if only in theory.
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Nice scenario, one that has been painted before, only this time we know how much interest there is with the existence of the new retro wave of games in various physical forms. As an avid fan of Last Ninja and spending my time tinkering with C64 graphics of various games I often revisit Last Ninja and there is always a great reaction. One of the most prominent games on C64 in the 1980’s and 1990’s it’s bound to exist again. System 3 guard this one heavily from my experience but I think seeing strong public reaction and interest could invoke something… whether that be a C64 ready game or a game that looks and plays like tho old Pixel-Retro games. Should System 3 adopt the ‘Retro’ in a big way, or move forwards trying to make a new titlr for todays’ gaming market. Where do they sit as a company, just a publishers of their existing folio or as something more?
Last Ninja Collection, the recently successfully funded Kickstarter not only has brought some of the fans back with interest, but perhaps stirred in my something that has been dormant for many many years, the will to work on a Last Ninja game for or akin to the Commodore 64 version. Imagine whole new scenarios, moves, weapons, music, removing limitations but keeping that C64 nostalgia in place. Sure, it’s going to cost some $$$k to get going but it will likely be such an epic way to finish the System 3 legacy before it’s too late.!
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Thank you very much for your supportive comments. The opportunity is there, we must try everything to bring to light something really good.
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