Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action
The Xbox Developer Direct 2025 delivered a thrilling surprise: the announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4 and the remastered Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. This marks a significant return for the franchise, celebrating Team Ninja's 30th anniversary and ushering in "The Year of the Ninja."
Team Ninja, in collaboration with PlatinumGames, is developing Ninja Gaiden 4, a direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3, thirteen years in the making. The game promises the series' signature blend of brutally challenging yet deeply satisfying gameplay. The partnership with Xbox is a natural progression, given their history of collaborations on franchises like Dead or Alive.
A New Ninja Takes Center Stage
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 as a character designed to stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa, the epitome of ninja mastery. Producer and Director Yuji Nakao explains the decision to introduce a new protagonist: "A new hero makes the series more approachable for newcomers, while Ryu Hayabusa's crucial role ensures longtime fans will also enjoy the game."
Ryu Hayabusa remains a significant presence, serving as both a formidable opponent and a benchmark for Yakumo's growth. He will also be playable, ensuring fans of the original protagonist aren't left disappointed.
Evolved Combat and Breakneck Speed
Ninja Gaiden 4 retains the series' hallmark fast-paced, brutal combat. Yakumo's unique fighting style, incorporating the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style alongside the Raven Style, promises a fresh yet familiar experience. Team Ninja assures fans that despite the new styles, the action will feel authentic to the Ninja Gaiden legacy. The collaboration with PlatinumGames brings a heightened sense of speed and dynamic expression.
The game is nearing completion, currently in the polishing phase, with further details to be revealed soon.
Release Date and Availability
Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for a Fall 2025 release 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
Alongside the announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the 2008 Xbox 360 title, is now available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and included with Xbox Game Pass. This version features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering a fresh take on a classic for both veterans and newcomers.
