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 reveal of Ninja Gaiden 4 and the release of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. Team Ninja, celebrating its 30th anniversary, declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja," promising a thrilling return to form for the iconic series.

A New Era for the Ninja Gaiden Series

Thirteen years after Ninja Gaiden 3, a new mainline entry arrives. Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a direct sequel, promising the intensely challenging yet rewarding gameplay the series is known for. The partnership between Team Ninja and Xbox is a natural progression, given their history of successful collaborations.

Introducing Yakumo: A New Protagonist, A Familiar Challenge

Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces 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 series' iconic protagonist. Producer and Director Yuji Nakao (PlatinumGames) explains the decision to introduce a new hero: to broaden the series' appeal while still providing a significant role for Ryu Hayabusa as a key challenge and mentor figure for Yakumo.

Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial part of the narrative and will be playable, ensuring that longtime fans will still find plenty to enjoy. Yakumo will face formidable foes, including the legendary Ryu Hayabusa himself.

Evolved Combat: Speed and Brutality Redefined

Ninja Gaiden 4 retains the series' signature fast-paced, brutal combat. Yakumo's unique fighting style incorporates the new "Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style," alongside the "Raven Style." Director Masazaku Hirayama (Team Ninja) assures fans that while distinct from Ryu's style, the action remains true to the Ninja Gaiden spirit. Nakao emphasizes the blend of Ninja Gaiden's challenging gameplay with PlatinumGames' signature speed and dynamism.

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

Ninja Gaiden 4: Fall 2025 Release

Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for release in Fall 2025 across Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5. It will be a day-one Xbox Game Pass title. Producer Fumihiko Yasuda (Team Ninja) highlights the collaborative effort between Koei Tecmo and PlatinumGames, emphasizing the shared vision and the belief that PlatinumGames' expertise perfectly complements Team Ninja's vision.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: Available Now

Complementing the Ninja Gaiden 4 announcement is the immediate availability of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the Xbox 360 classic. Available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and included with Xbox Game Pass, it features additional playable characters (Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel), offering a satisfying experience for both veterans and newcomers. This serves as a perfect appetizer for the arrival of Ninja Gaiden 4.