Surprise Unveiling: Ninja Gaiden 4 Revealed at Xbox Event

Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action

The Xbox Developer Direct 2025 delivered a thrilling surprise: the reveal of both Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. This announcement marks a significant moment for Team Ninja, celebrating their 30th anniversary and declaring 2025 "The Year of the Ninja."

A New Era for the Ninja Gaiden Franchise

Developed by the collaborative forces of Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is the long-awaited mainline sequel, arriving thirteen years after Ninja Gaiden 3. The game promises to deliver the series' signature blend of brutally challenging yet intensely rewarding gameplay. The partnership with Xbox is a natural progression, given their history of collaborations on franchises like Dead or Alive and the Xbox 360 release of Ninja Gaiden 2.

Introducing Yakumo: A New Protagonist

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, striving to become a Master Ninja. PlatinumGames' Art Director, Tomoko Nishii, describes Yakumo's design as aiming to create a character who can stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa, the epitome of ninja mastery. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director from PlatinumGames, explains the decision to introduce a new protagonist: "A new hero makes the series more approachable for new players, while Ryu Hayabusa remains a pivotal figure, serving as a major challenge and a key part of Yakumo's journey." Rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa remains a significant presence and is playable.

Revitalized Combat: Raven and Nue Styles

Ninja Gaiden 4 maintains the series' hallmark breakneck-speed combat, enhanced by the introduction of Yakumo's unique Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style, alongside his Raven Style. Team Ninja's Director, Masazaku Hirayama, assures fans that while distinct from Ryu's style, Yakumo's combat will feel authentically Ninja Gaiden. The development team aims to blend the series' established challenge with PlatinumGames' signature speed and dynamic action. The game is currently 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase.

Ninja Gaiden 4 Release Date: Fall 2025

Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for release in Fall 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5. It will be a day-one Xbox Game Pass title.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Remastered Classic

Responding to fan demand, 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 with Xbox Game Pass. This version features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering a refined experience for both veterans and newcomers. It serves as a satisfying prelude to the arrival of Ninja Gaiden 4.