Ninja Gaiden 4 Unveiled at Xbox Developer Direct 2025

Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black were both unveiled during the Xbox Developer Direct 2025, marking a thrilling moment for fans of the iconic series. Dive into the details of the new gameplay and anticipated release dates.

Ninja Gaiden Games Revealed As Surprise During Xbox Developer Direct 2025

Team Ninja Declares 2025 As The Year Of The Ninja

During the Xbox Developer Direct 2025, Team Ninja announced the much-anticipated Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, revealing them as the surprise Japanese IP teased earlier. As Team Ninja celebrates its 30th anniversary, they've declared 2025 as "The Year of the Ninja." Fumihiko Yasuda, the Head of Team Ninja and Producer of Ninja Gaiden 4 at Koei Tecmo, expressed his excitement and hopes that fans will be thrilled with the evolution of the series.

Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the first mainline entry since Ninja Gaiden 3 in 2012. This direct sequel promises to uphold the series' tradition of challenging yet rewarding gameplay.

The reveal at an Xbox event aligns with the long-standing partnership between Xbox and Team Ninja, which has seen exclusive releases like the Dead or Alive series and Ninja Gaiden 2 on Xbox platforms.

Ninja Gaiden 4 Features New Protagonist

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces a new protagonist, Yakumo, a young ninja from the Raven clan, who aspires to become a Master Ninja. Tomoko Nishii, Art Director at PlatinumGames, shared their vision for Yakumo, designed to stand alongside the legendary Ryu Hayabusa.

Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director of Ninja Gaiden 4 at PlatinumGames, explained the decision to introduce a new hero. "We wanted to make the series more accessible to new players while ensuring that long-time fans would enjoy it. Ryu Hayabusa remains a pivotal figure in the story, serving as a mentor and challenge for Yakumo," Nakao stated.

Yakumo's journey will see him confront various foes, including the formidable Ryu Hayabusa himself. Fans of the original protagonist can rest assured, as Ryu will also be playable, maintaining his significant presence in the game.

Ninja Gaiden 4 New Combat Style

Ninja Gaiden 4 promises fast-paced, brutal combat, introducing a new style alongside Yakumo: the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style. Masazaku Hirayama, Director at Team Ninja, highlighted Yakumo's unique combat styles, Raven Style and Nue Style, which, while distinct, fit seamlessly into the Ninja Gaiden series.

Nakao emphasized the team's commitment to the series' core elements of challenge and deep action, enhanced by PlatinumGames' signature speed and dynamic expression.

Currently, the game is 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase. More details will be shared soon, and Yasuda emphasized that Ninja Gaiden 4 remains true to its action roots, with opportunities for fans to experience the game firsthand.

Ninja Gaiden 4 Coming Fall 2025

Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for release in Fall 2025, as announced in the game's trailer. In an Xbox Wire interview, Yasuda shared Team Ninja's long-held desire to revive the series. He noted the collaborative effort with PlatinumGames, facilitated by the close relationship between Koei Tecmo's President Hisashi Koinuma and PlatinumGames' CEO Atsushi Inaba.

The game will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one. You can wishlist it now and find more information on our dedicated Ninja Gaiden 4 page.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black Available Now On Multiple Platforms And Xbox Game Pass

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the original Ninja Gaiden 2 from 2008, is now available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and is included in Xbox Game Pass. This version introduces additional playable characters like Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel, previously seen in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.

The idea for the remake emerged following the release of the Ninja Gaiden Master Collection in 2021, driven by fan demand for an experience akin to Ninja Gaiden 2. Yasuda explained that the team aimed to provide fans with something to enjoy while awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4, ensuring it appeals to both veterans and newcomers.

For more details, visit our Ninja Gaiden 2 Black page.