Naruto: Uzamaki Chronicles announced

I seriously don't know what the big deal with Naruto is, but since I'm no anime connoisseur, I really can't pass any sort of judgment. Either way, if you're a big fan, you must have surely played Naruto: Ultimate Ninja, which in all honesty was a decent beat-em up. And if you did play that game then this will probably make your day.

Naruto: Uzumaki Chronicles introduces a lush, never-before-seen 3D world that will test the players' Ninjutsu skills as Naruto, the feisty orphan who wants to become the most respected and admired ninja of all time. A brand new story drives the missions as players experience the trials and tribulations of a ninja-in-training - fierce competition from fellow students and constant challenges from their teachers. Players can collect status-boosting chips and plates to customize all aspects of Naruto's abilities and face-off against multiple enemies using either close combat moves or long-range weapons like shurikens and explosive cards.

The game's expected in December 2006 and will be a PS2 exclusive.