Ninja Gaiden 4 and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Double Dose of Ninja Action Announced at Xbox Developer Direct 2025
Team Ninja declared 2025 "The Year of the Ninja," culminating in a surprise double reveal at the Xbox Developer Direct 2025: Ninja Gaiden 4 and a remake, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black. This marks a significant return for the franchise, thirteen years after Ninja Gaiden 3.
Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a direct sequel to Ninja Gaiden 3, promising the series' signature blend of brutally challenging yet intensely rewarding gameplay. The choice of an Xbox event for the reveal is unsurprising given Microsoft's long-standing relationship with Team Ninja.
A New Ninja Takes Center Stage
Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, aspiring to master the art of ninjutsu. PlatinumGames' Art Director, Tomoko Nishii, describes Yakumo's design as aiming to create a character who can stand alongside Ryu Hayabusa. Yuji Nakao, Producer and Director at PlatinumGames, explains the decision to introduce a new protagonist: to broaden the series' appeal to newcomers while ensuring long-time fans remain engaged through Ryu's pivotal role in the narrative. Ryu Hayabusa remains playable, offering a significant challenge for Yakumo and a nostalgic treat for veterans.
Revamped Combat and a New Style
Ninja Gaiden 4 maintains the series' breakneck speed and brutal combat, adding a new combat style for Yakumo: the Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nue Style, alongside his Raven Style. Team Ninja assures fans that despite the introduction of a new protagonist and style, the core Ninja Gaiden action remains intact. The game is currently 70-80% complete and in the polishing phase.
Release Date and Availability
Ninja Gaiden 4 is slated for a Fall 2025 release on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: A Remastered Classic
In addition to the highly anticipated sequel, a remake of Ninja Gaiden 2 (originally released on Xbox 360 in 2008), titled Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, and is included with Xbox Game Pass. This remake expands on the original with additional playable characters from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2: Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel. The decision to create this remake stemmed from fan feedback following the release of the Ninja Gaiden Master Collection in 2021.
The future of the Ninja Gaiden franchise looks bright, with a new entry promising thrilling action and a remastered classic offering a taste of what's to come.
