Gameplay will remain much the same as the previous
Tenchu. Something the developers have been dead set on eliminating from the game is the trial-and-error gameplay usually associated with the genre. Scouting out enemies will play a major part of the game. When entering a new area, players can find high perches of dark corners to tuck themselves in and remain undetected. From these vantage points they can take notes of enemy behavior and adapt their tactics to the situation. While in wait, opportunities to strike will reveal themselves to the player, allowing them to pull off what has been a staple of the series -- the stealth kill.
Before getting into the stealth kills, its important to understand the changes to stealth game play in Fatal Shadows. Enemies will be more aware of their surroundings and won't be easily fooled. All enemies will have a set range of sight, how far depends on their type. For example, archers -- who are eagle eyes -- will have a longer range of vision than a lowly thug. Other elements, like sound, will also play into how well you remain hidden. Once spotted, clumsier ninjas will have to deal with smarter enemy AI who will call friends to their aid and actively pursue you. While adding another level of challenge to the game, the increased awareness can also be used against enemies. After killing an enemy, the next logical step is to hide the body. However, bodies can be used as bait, drawing enemies closer to your hiding spot and giving you a shot at another stealth kill.
Stealth kills have long been a staple of the series, and make an expected return with a few new changes. The ability to double stealth kill is a new addition to the series and, as the name suggests, allows you to take out two enemies at once (as long as they're close to each other). The "normal" stealth kills have also undergone some changes. Provided you can remain unseen, which unlocks normal combat, you can sneak up on enemies and unleash a quick-kill maneuver. By timing your button presses with an on-screen cue, you can extend the move and pull off a higher-level kill. Unleashing high-level kills rewards you with scrolls, which can be used to purchase new moves for your character. The more complex the move, the more scrolls you'll receive.