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

Ninja Gaiden 4 & Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action Announced at Xbox Developer Direct 2025

Team Ninja's surprise announcement at Xbox Developer Direct 2025 sent shockwaves through the gaming community: Ninja Gaiden 4 and a remake, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, are both on their way. This marks a significant return for the franchise, celebrating Team Ninja's 30th anniversary and declaring 2025 "The Year of the Ninja." Fumihiko Yasuda, Head of Team Ninja and Producer of Ninja Gaiden 4, expressed excitement for the series' evolution.

A New Era for the Ninja Gaiden Franchise

Developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3, breaking a 13-year silence. The game promises the signature challenging yet rewarding gameplay the series is known for. The collaboration with PlatinumGames, known for its fast-paced action titles, is a significant development. The Xbox announcement is fitting, given Microsoft's long-standing relationship with Team Ninja.

Introducing Yakumo: A New Protagonist

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, striving to become a Master Ninja. PlatinumGames' Art Director, Tomoko Nishii, described Yakumo's design as aiming to create a character who could stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director from PlatinumGames, explained the reasoning behind a new protagonist: to broaden the series' appeal while ensuring long-time fans remain satisfied. Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial part of the story and will even be playable.

Revamped Combat: Speed and Brutality

Expect breakneck speed and brutal combat, hallmarks of the Ninja Gaiden series. Yakumo will wield two distinct fighting styles: Raven Style and the new Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Masazaku Hirayama, Team Ninja Director, assures fans that despite the new styles, the action will remain true to the series' core. The development team is aiming for a blend of Ninja Gaiden's challenge and PlatinumGames' dynamic action. The game is currently 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase.

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. Yasuda highlighted the collaborative effort between Koei Tecmo and PlatinumGames, emphasizing their shared vision for the game's development.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Remaster Now Available

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 remake features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering fans a taste of classic Ninja Gaiden action while they await the arrival of Ninja Gaiden 4.