Ninja Gaiden 4 is set to make waves this fall as the iconic action franchise returns after over a decade of dormancy, announced during Microsoft's Xbox Developer Direct. This new installment marks the continuation of the beloved series, which has long been regarded for its challenging gameplay and engaging narratives.
Co-developed by Team Ninja, well-known for its work on previous Ninja Gaiden titles, and the esteemed PlatinumGames, known for hits like Bayonetta and Nier Automata, this collaboration promises to revitalize the franchise with fresh energy. Ninja Gaiden 4 will see players step back onto the streets of Tokyo, under the looming threat of the Dark Dragon, as two ninjas, Ryu Hayabusa and the newcomer Yakumo, rise to the challenge.
Set after the events of 2012's Ninja Gaiden 3, the new game introduces Yakumo, hailing from the rival Raven clan. This latest entry aims to preserve the series’ notorious difficulty levels yet is said to be approachable for newcomers to this brutal world. "We expect the same bloody, quick-action gameplay the series is known for," explained developers from Team Ninja. Players will find classic moves such as the Izuna Drop making their return, entwined with new fighting styles unique to Yakumo.
While Ryu Hayabusa remains the franchise's face, Yakumo embodies the potential for the next generation of ninjas. Yuji Nakao, Product and Director at PlatinumGames, states, "Ryu will play a pivotal role in the story and his motives will be revealed as the story unveils and lead him to clash with Yakumo." This suggests complex character dynamics, likely to fascinate both veteran players and newcomers alike.
The gameplay mechanics have been upgraded, allowing players to switch between various styles, namely Raven Style and Nue Style, providing depth and variety to combat encounters. Tomoko Nishii, the Art Director for Ninja Gaiden 4, describes Yakumo as "someone who can stand alongside Ryu, the pinnacle of what it means to be a ninja — and a potential Master Ninja of the next generation." This evolution reflects both character development and gameplay innovation.
Interestingly, the reveal of Ninja Gaiden 4 was accompanied by the stealth launch of Ninja Gaiden II Black, offering players both nostalgia and renewed excitement as they await 4's release. The updated version of the 2008 classic features new visuals and is available now on platforms such as PS5, Xbox Series X, and Windows PC.
It's noteworthy to mention the franchise's storied history, beginning with the original Ninja Gaiden arcade game released back in 1988. The series dominated the gaming scene through its development on the NES and later enjoyed successful reboots starting with the release of Ninja Gaiden for Xbox in 2004. This latest resurgence seems to be indicative of the company's commitment to reinvigorate its rich heritage.
Fans eager for the action-filled return of Ryu and his new counterpart will have the chance to join them on Fall 2025 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series consoles, adding another layer of joy to the anticipation. Notably, Ninja Gaiden 4 will also be available on Xbox Game Pass, providing convenient accessibility to gamers worldwide.
With the excitement around Ninja Gaiden 4 building, including the promise of intense, fast-paced combat and the revival of the franchise, players can look forward to a thrilling adventure set against the backdrop of not just the city of Tokyo but also the larger-than-life battles against the Dark Dragon. The luminary legacy of Ninja Gaiden continues, and this new installment is set to claim its place among the greats of the action genre.