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

Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action

The Xbox Developer Direct 2025 delivered a surprise double-whammy for fans of the Ninja Gaiden franchise: the announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4 and the release of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. Team Ninja, celebrating their 30th anniversary, declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja."

Ninja Gaiden 4: A New Era Begins

Developed by the collaborative might of Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the series' return after a 13-year hiatus. This direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3 promises the signature blend of brutally challenging yet rewarding gameplay.

The game introduces a new protagonist, Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, striving to become a Master Ninja. Art Director Tomoko Nishii (PlatinumGames) describes Yakumo as a character designed to stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa, the epitome of a ninja. Producer and Director Yuji Nakao (PlatinumGames) explains the reasoning behind the new protagonist: to broaden the series' appeal to newcomers while ensuring long-time fans remain satisfied. Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial part of the story, serving as a major obstacle and a key figure in Yakumo's development. Rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa will also be playable.

A New Combat Style

Ninja Gaiden 4 boasts breakneck-speed combat with the signature brutality of the series. Yakumo utilizes two distinct fighting styles: Raven Style and the newly introduced Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Director Masazaku Hirayama (Team Ninja) assures fans that these styles, while different, maintain the core feel of the Ninja Gaiden series. The collaboration with PlatinumGames brings a heightened sense of speed and dynamic action to the mix.

The game is nearing completion (70-80% complete), currently in the polishing phase. Further details are promised soon.

Release Date and Availability

Ninja Gaiden 4 launches 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 Remastered Classic

A remake of the original Ninja Gaiden 2 (Xbox 360, 2008), Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, also included with Xbox Game Pass. This version features additional playable characters (Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel), fulfilling fan requests since the release of the Ninja Gaiden Master Collection in 2021.

This serves as a satisfying appetizer for fans eagerly awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4. The team aimed to create a version enjoyable for both veterans and newcomers.