These drops, which arrive later in the game, are distinguished by a prominent blue crate dropping from the sky, attracting players like moths to a flame. The race for these crates not only promises rare loot, but it also increases the intensity of the game, as players engage in heated conflicts over these floating containers.

I wasn't expecting much from Thursday's Xbox Direct, but then isn't that always the way: It turned out to be the most laser-targeted assault on my gaming desires in years. What Microsoft is calling "The Year of the Ninja" saw the announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4,