Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black were both unveiled during the Xbox Developer Direct 2025, marking a thrilling moment for fans of the iconic series. Dive into the details about the gameplay of the new game and the anticipated release dates.
Ninja Gaiden Games Revealed As Surprise During Xbox Developer Direct 2025
Team Ninja Declares 2025 As The Year Of The Ninja
Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black were announced as the surprise Japanese IP at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025. As Team Ninja celebrates its 30th anniversary, they've declared 2025 as "The Year of the Ninja." Fumihiko Yasuda, the Head of Team Ninja and Producer of Ninja Gaiden 4 at Koei Tecmo, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the evolution of the series.
Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the first mainline entry since Ninja Gaiden 3 in 2012. This direct sequel promises to uphold the series' tradition of challenging yet rewarding gameplay.
The reveal at an Xbox event aligns with the long-standing partnership between Xbox and Team Ninja, known for exclusive releases like the Dead or Alive series and Ninja Gaiden 2 on Xbox 360.
Ninja Gaiden 4 Features New Protagonist
Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces a new protagonist, Yakumo, a young ninja from the Raven clan, who aspires to become a Master Ninja. Tomoko Nishii, Art Director at PlatinumGames, shared their vision for Yakumo, designed to stand alongside the legendary Ryu Hayabusa.
Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director of Ninja Gaiden 4 at PlatinumGames, explained the decision to introduce a new hero. "We wanted to make the series more accessible to new players while ensuring long-time fans enjoy the game. Ryu Hayabusa remains a pivotal figure, challenging and guiding Yakumo's growth," Nakao stated.
Yakumo will face formidable foes, including Ryu Hayabusa himself, ensuring fans of the original protagonist will still find plenty to enjoy, as Ryu remains playable and integral to the narrative.
Ninja Gaiden 4 New Combat Style
Ninja Gaiden 4 promises fast-paced, brutal combat, introducing the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style alongside the new protagonist. Masazaku Hirayama, Director at Team Ninja, highlighted Yakumo's unique combat styles: Raven Style and Nue Style, both designed to fit seamlessly into the Ninja Gaiden universe.
Nakao emphasized the team's commitment to the series' signature challenge and deep action, enhanced by PlatinumGames' dynamic and speedy gameplay.
Currently 70-80% complete, the game is in its polishing phase. More details will be shared soon, and Yasuda assured fans that Ninja Gaiden 4 remains true to its action roots, with opportunities for hands-on experience on the horizon.
Ninja Gaiden 4 Coming Fall 2025
Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for release in Fall 2025, as revealed in the game's trailer. In an Xbox Wire interview, Yasuda shared Team Ninja's long-held desire to revive the series. He credited the close relationship between Koei Tecmo's President, Hisashi Koinuma, and PlatinumGames' CEO, Atsushi Inaba, for facilitating this collaborative effort.
Ninja Gaiden 4 will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one. You can wishlist the game now and visit our NINJA GAIDEN 4 page for more information.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black Available Now On Multiple Platforms And Xbox Game Pass
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the 2008 Xbox 360 classic, is now available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and is included in Xbox Game Pass. This version introduces additional playable characters like Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel, previously seen in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.
The idea for the remake emerged following the release of the Ninja Gaiden Master Collection in 2021, driven by fan demand for an experience akin to Ninja Gaiden 2. Yasuda explained that the team aimed to provide fans with something to enjoy while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4, ensuring the game appeals to both veterans and newcomers.
For more details, visit our NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black page.
