
Team Ninja's 30th Anniversary: Big Plans on the Horizon
Team Ninja, the Koei Tecmo subsidiary renowned for its action-packed franchises like Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, has hinted at significant projects to commemorate its 30th anniversary in 2025. Beyond these iconic series, the studio's portfolio boasts successful soulslike RPGs, including the Nioh series and collaborations with Square Enix (Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty). The recent release of Rise of the Ronin further showcases their diverse capabilities.
In a recent interview, Team Ninja's Fumihiko Yasuda alluded to upcoming releases "fitting for the occasion." While specifics remain undisclosed, speculation centers on potential new entries in the Dead or Alive or Ninja Gaiden series. The anticipation is high, especially given the long-awaited return of Ninja Gaiden.
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, announced at The Game Awards 2024, is a side-scrolling title aiming to revitalize the franchise with a blend of classic 8-bit gameplay and modern enhancements. This follows the divisive 2014 release of Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z.
The Dead or Alive franchise, last updated with Dead or Alive 6 in 2019, also remains a focal point for fan speculation. The absence of a new mainline entry fuels hopes for a significant anniversary release. Similarly, the Nioh series has a dedicated fanbase eager for future installments.
2025 promises exciting developments from Team Ninja, with the developer's 30th anniversary poised to deliver noteworthy additions to its already impressive legacy.