Team NINJA Unveils Stealth Revelry: Ninja Gaiden 4 Emerges

Team Ninja's highly anticipated Ninja Gaiden 4, alongside a remake, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, were unveiled as surprise announcements at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025. This marks a significant return for the franchise after a 13-year hiatus since Ninja Gaiden 3. Read on for details on gameplay and release date.

Team Ninja Declares 2025: The Year of the Ninja

The reveal at the Xbox event is unsurprising given Team Ninja's long-standing relationship with Xbox, having released several exclusive titles on their platforms. Fumihiko Yasuda, Head of Team Ninja and producer of Ninja Gaiden 4, expressed excitement about the franchise's evolution and hopes fans will share his enthusiasm.

Developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 promises a direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3, retaining the series' signature challenging yet rewarding gameplay.

A New Protagonist Takes Center Stage

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, striving to achieve Master Ninja status. PlatinumGames' Art Director, Tomoko Nishii, described the design process, aiming for a character who could stand alongside the legendary Ryu Hayabusa. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director from PlatinumGames, explained the reasoning behind the new protagonist: "A new hero makes the series more accessible to newcomers, while Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial part of the story, serving as a major challenge for Yakumo." Ryu Hayabusa will also be playable.

Revamped Combat System

Ninja Gaiden 4 will feature the series' trademark brutal, fast-paced combat, enhanced by a new combat style for Yakumo: the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Masazaku Hirayama, Director of Team Ninja, confirmed Yakumo's dual combat styles – Raven Style and Nue Style – while assuring fans the action will remain true to the Ninja Gaiden spirit. Nakao highlighted the collaboration with PlatinumGames, blending the series' core challenge with PlatinumGames' dynamic action.

The game is nearing completion (70-80% complete), currently 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.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black Available Now

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the 2008 Xbox 360 classic, is now available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, also included with Xbox Game Pass. This remake features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering fans a taste of the action while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4.