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

The Xbox Developer Direct 2025 delivered a thrilling surprise: the announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4 and a remastered Ninja Gaiden 2 Black! Team Ninja, celebrating its 30th anniversary, declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja." This marks a significant return for the franchise, with Ninja Gaiden 4 being the first mainline entry in over a decade.

A New Ninja Takes Center Stage

Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, 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 pivotal challenge and story element.

Ryu Hayabusa remains a key figure, playable and a formidable opponent for Yakumo. The narrative will see Yakumo facing both rivals and the legendary Hayabusa himself.

Revitalized Combat

Ninja Gaiden 4 retains the series' signature brutal, fast-paced combat, enhanced by a new combat style for Yakumo: the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style, alongside the Raven Style. Team Ninja's Masazaku Hirayama assures fans that both styles maintain the core Ninja Gaiden feel, while PlatinumGames' input adds speed and dynamism. The game is nearing completion, currently in the polishing phase, with further details to be revealed soon.

Release Date and Availability

Ninja Gaiden 4 launches 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

Simultaneously, 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: Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel. The remake serves as a satisfying experience for fans while they eagerly await Ninja Gaiden 4.

Team Ninja's commitment to the Ninja Gaiden franchise is evident, promising a thrilling return for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The collaboration with PlatinumGames ensures a fresh take on classic gameplay, while staying true to the series' challenging and rewarding action. The "Year of the Ninja" is shaping up to be an exciting one.