Ninja Gaiden 4 Was the Surprise Reveal at Xbox Developer Direct 2025

Team Ninja's highly anticipated Ninja Gaiden 4, along with a remastered Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, were unveiled as surprise announcements at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025. This marks a significant return for the franchise, thirteen years after Ninja Gaiden 3. Team Ninja, celebrating its 30th anniversary, declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja."

The collaboration between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames promises a thrilling new chapter. Ninja Gaiden 4 directly follows Ninja Gaiden 3, maintaining the series' signature challenging yet rewarding gameplay. The choice of an Xbox event is fitting, given Microsoft's long-standing relationship with Team Ninja.

A New Protagonist Takes Center Stage

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, aspiring to become a Master Ninja. PlatinumGames' Art Director, Tomoko Nishii, describes Yakumo as a character designed to stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa, the series' iconic protagonist. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director from PlatinumGames, explains the decision to introduce a new hero: "We wanted a new hero to make the series more approachable for new players, while ensuring long-time fans enjoy the game." Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial figure, serving as a formidable opponent and benchmark for Yakumo's growth. Ryu will also be playable.

Evolved Combat Mechanics

Ninja Gaiden 4 retains the series' signature brutal, fast-paced combat. Yakumo utilizes two distinct fighting styles: Raven Style and the newly introduced Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Masazaku Hirayama, Team Ninja's Director, assures fans that while different, both styles maintain the core Ninja Gaiden feel. Nakao emphasizes the blend of classic Ninja Gaiden challenge with PlatinumGames' dynamic action.

The game is nearing completion (70-80% complete), currently in the polishing phase. Further details will be revealed soon.

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. Fumihiko Yasuda, Head of Team Ninja and Producer of Ninja Gaiden 4, highlighted the collaborative effort with PlatinumGames, emphasizing the shared vision and strong relationship between Koei Tecmo and PlatinumGames.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black – Available Now

A remastered version of Ninja Gaiden 2, titled Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and is included with Xbox Game Pass. This remake features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering fans a satisfying experience while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4.