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 its 30th anniversary, declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja," promising a thrilling return to the series' signature brutal and rewarding gameplay.

A New Era Begins: Ninja Gaiden 4

Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the series' return after a 13-year hiatus. This direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3 introduces a fresh protagonist, Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan striving for mastery.

PlatinumGames' Art Director, Tomoko Nishii, described Yakumo's design as aiming to "stand alongside Ryu," while Producer and Director Yuji Nakao explained the rationale behind the new hero: "A new hero to make the series more approachable for new players, while Ryu Hayabusa plays a significant role, serving as a major challenge and growth milestone for Yakumo." Rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa remains a crucial element of the story and will be playable.

Ninja Gaiden 4 retains the series' hallmark fast-paced, brutally challenging combat, introducing Yakumo's unique "Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style" alongside the traditional Raven Style. Team Ninja's Masazaku Hirayama assures fans that despite the new style, "the action will feel right at home." The game, currently 70-80% complete, is in its final polishing stages.

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.

A Blast from the Past: Ninja Gaiden 2 Black

Simultaneously, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, a remake of the 2008 Xbox 360 classic, is now available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, including with Xbox Game Pass. This enhanced version features additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, offering fans a taste of classic Ninja Gaiden action while they await the arrival of Ninja Gaiden 4.

Team Ninja aims to provide a satisfying experience for both veterans and newcomers, ensuring Ninja Gaiden 2 Black stands as a worthy modern action game.

The future of Ninja Gaiden is bright, promising a blend of classic action and fresh innovation. Keep an eye out for further updates on Ninja Gaiden 4.