Kamen no Ninja: Hanamaru

A young ninja investigates a series of disappearances of children in an amusement park. The hero is assisted by a hand bird that he sends at enemies. Magic can be knocked out of large scrolls (press down+hit to use it). The music and design are Japanese. The only unfortunate thing is that a single hit from an enemy will turn your character into dust. Upgrades can often be knocked out of the air. Try to collect more of them, as they will help you in battles with bosses to be defeated in the mini-game. The American version is called Yo! Noid and features a different story, music, redrawn levels, enemies and protagonist, and is less difficult.