Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action
Team Ninja declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja," and they weren't kidding. The Xbox Developer Direct 2025 unveiled not one, but two major Ninja Gaiden titles: Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. This surprise announcement marks a significant return for the iconic franchise after a long hiatus. Fumihiko Yasuda, Head of Team Ninja and producer of Ninja Gaiden 4, expressed his excitement and gratitude to fans, promising an evolution of the series they'll love.
Developed by the powerhouse duo of Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3, picking up the thread 13 years later. Expect the same brutally challenging yet immensely rewarding gameplay that defines the series. The Xbox announcement is fitting, given Microsoft's long-standing relationship with Team Ninja, having previously published several Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden titles.
A New Ninja Takes Center Stage
Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces a fresh face: 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 the legendary Ryu Hayabusa.
Yuji Nakao, the game's producer and director from PlatinumGames, explains the reasoning behind the new protagonist: "Since it's been a while since the last game, we wanted a new hero to make the series more approachable for new players. Of course, we also wanted long-time fans to enjoy the game, so Ryu Hayabusa plays a significant role in the story, serving as a major challenge and growth milestone for Yakumo." Rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial part of the narrative and will be playable, ensuring fans of the original protagonist aren't left disappointed.
Revitalized Combat: Speed and Style
Prepare for breakneck-speed combat with the signature brutality of the Ninja Gaiden series. Yakumo's introduction brings a new fighting style: the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style, complementing the Raven Style. Masazaku Hirayama, Team Ninja's director, assures fans that while distinct from Ryu's style, both styles maintain the core feel of the Ninja Gaiden franchise. Nakao highlights the collaboration between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, promising a blend of the series' challenging action with PlatinumGames' dynamic flair.
The game is currently 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase. More details are forthcoming, and Yasuda emphasizes the game's core action focus, promising future hands-on opportunities.
Ninja Gaiden 4: Fall 2025 Release
Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for release in Fall 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5. It will launch day one on Xbox Game Pass, and you can wishlist it now. In an Xbox Wire interview, Yasuda detailed Team Ninja's long-held desire to revive the series, crediting the collaborative effort with PlatinumGames and the close relationship between Koei Tecmo and PlatinumGames' leadership for making it possible.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Remastered Classic
Responding to fan demand following the release of the Ninja Gaiden Master Collection, 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 included with Xbox Game Pass. This version features additional playable characters like Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel, enhancing the experience for both veterans and newcomers. Yasuda explains this release as a way to keep fans engaged while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4.
