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

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

Team Ninja declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja" with a surprise double reveal at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025: Ninja Gaiden 4 and a remake, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. This marks a significant return for the franchise, thirteen years after Ninja Gaiden 3.

Developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3, promising the series' signature blend of brutally challenging yet rewarding gameplay. The collaboration between these two studios is a significant event, leveraging Team Ninja's legacy and PlatinumGames' renowned action expertise. The Xbox partnership continues a long-standing relationship, dating back to the Dead or Alive and original Ninja Gaiden 2 releases.

A New Protagonist Takes Center Stage

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, striving to become a Master Ninja. Art Director Tomoko Nishii (PlatinumGames) describes Yakumo as a character designed to stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa, representing the pinnacle of ninja skill. Producer and Director Yuji Nakao (PlatinumGames) explains the decision to introduce a new protagonist: "We wanted a new hero to make the series more approachable for new players, while ensuring long-time fans enjoy Ryu Hayabusa's significant role in the story."

Rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa remains a pivotal figure, serving as both a formidable opponent and a benchmark for Yakumo's growth. Ryu will also be playable.

Revamped Combat and a New Style

Expect breakneck speed and brutal combat, hallmarks of the Ninja Gaiden series. Yakumo's introduction brings a new fighting style: the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style, alongside the Raven Style. Team Ninja's Masazaku Hirayama assures fans that both styles maintain the feel of classic Ninja Gaiden action, while incorporating PlatinumGames' dynamic flair. The game is currently 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase.

Release Date and Availability

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

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the 2008 Xbox 360 classic, is available now 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 satisfying experience for both veterans and newcomers. It serves as a perfect appetizer while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4.