The Xbox Developer Direct 2025 unveiled a double dose of Ninja Gaiden: Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black! Read on for details on the gameplay and release date of the highly anticipated sequel.
Team Ninja Declares 2025: The Year of the Ninja
The surprise reveal of Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025 marks Team Ninja's 30th anniversary, declared "The Year of the Ninja." Fumihiko Yasuda, Head of Team Ninja and Producer of Ninja Gaiden 4, expressed excitement for the series' evolution.
Developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is the long-awaited mainline sequel, arriving 13 years after Ninja Gaiden 3. Expect the signature challenging yet rewarding gameplay. The Xbox showcase is fitting, given Microsoft's history with Team Ninja, including exclusive Dead or Alive titles and the Microsoft Game Studios-published Ninja Gaiden 2 for Xbox 360.
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 as a character designed to stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director from PlatinumGames, explained the reasoning behind the new protagonist: "A new hero makes the series more approachable for new players, while Ryu Hayabusa remains a significant challenge and story element for long-time fans."
Ryu Hayabusa remains a pivotal figure, playable and a formidable opponent for Yakumo.
Revamped Combat: Bloodbind Ninjutsu and Nue Style
Expect breakneck speed and brutal combat, hallmarks of the Ninja Gaiden franchise. Yakumo utilizes two distinct styles: Raven Style and the new Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Masazaku Hirayama, Team Ninja Director, assures fans that despite the differences, the action will feel authentically Ninja Gaiden. Nakao highlights the blend of classic Ninja Gaiden challenge with PlatinumGames' dynamic speed and flair.
Development is 70-80% complete, with the team currently polishing the game. Further details are forthcoming. Yasuda emphasizes the core action gameplay and promises hands-on opportunities for fans.
Ninja Gaiden 4: Fall 2025 Release
Ninja Gaiden 4 launches Fall 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5. It will be a day-one Xbox Game Pass title. Add it to your wishlist now!
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: Available Now!
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. It features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2: Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel. Yasuda explains the remake's origin, stemming from fan requests after the 2021 release of the Ninja Gaiden Master Collection. He assures fans it's designed to appeal to both veterans and newcomers.
