Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action Announced at Xbox Developer Direct 2025
Team Ninja declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja," culminating in a surprise double reveal at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025: Ninja Gaiden 4 and a remake, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. This marks a significant return for the franchise, thirteen years after Ninja Gaiden 3.
Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 directly follows Ninja Gaiden 3. It promises the series' signature blend of brutally challenging yet immensely rewarding gameplay. The collaboration is a natural progression, given Xbox's long-standing relationship with Team Ninja, having previously published several titles in the Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden franchises.
A New Ninja Takes Center Stage:
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, the epitome of a ninja. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director at PlatinumGames, explained the decision to introduce a new protagonist: "A new hero makes the series more approachable for newcomers, while Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial part of the story, serving as a major challenge for Yakumo." Rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa remains playable and a significant force within the game's narrative.
Revamped Combat Mechanics:
Ninja Gaiden 4 maintains the series' hallmark fast-paced, brutal combat. Yakumo utilizes two distinct fighting styles: Raven Style and the new Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Team Ninja's Director, Masazaku Hirayama, assures fans that despite the stylistic differences, the action remains true to the Ninja Gaiden spirit. Nakao highlights the collaboration with PlatinumGames, emphasizing the integration of their signature speed and dynamic combat into the core Ninja Gaiden experience. The game is currently 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase.
Release Date and Availability:
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: A Modern Classic Reforged:
Responding to fan demand, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the 2008 Xbox 360 title, is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and included with Xbox Game Pass. This version features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, including Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel. Producer Fumihiko Yasuda explained the decision to release this remake as a way to provide fans with something to enjoy while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4.
This Fall, prepare for a double dose of high-octane ninja action. The wait is almost over.
