Overview
Ninja Gaiden 4 marks a new chapter in the legendary action-hack-and-slash series. A collaboration between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, it introduces Yakumo—a young ninja from the Raven Clan—while also allowing players to control the iconic Ryu Hayabusa. Set in a near-future, rain-soaked Tokyo threatened by the return of the Dark Dragon, the game blends brutal melee combat with stylish over-the-top gore and agile traversal mechanics.
Key Details
- Developer / Publisher: Team Ninja & PlatinumGames / Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: Action-Adventure / Hack-and-Slash
- Mode: Single-player
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam, Microsoft Store), Xbox Cloud
- Engine: Unreal Engine 5
Release Info
- Release Date: October 21, 2025
- Editions: Standard and Deluxe edition (includes skins, in-game currency, future DLC)
- Pricing: $69.99 (Standard), Deluxe around $89.99
- Availability: Digital and physical availability; Day-One release on Xbox Game Pass and available via Xbox Play Anywhere
Gameplay & Features
- High-speed, precision combat with kombatized swordplay, Bloodbind Ninjutsu, and signature moves like Izuna Drop and Flying Swallow
- Dual-protagonist story featuring Yakumo’s transformation and Ryu’s legendary journey
- Bloodraven Form offers powerful blood-based transformations and combo potential
- Set-piece locations include Near-Future Tokyo, cyberpunk aesthetics, and rain-drenched environments
- Difficulty settings accommodate both veterans and newcomers to the series
Developer Commentary
Producer/director Yuji Nakao explained the partnership between Team Ninja’s disciplined combat and PlatinumGames’ stylistic flair aims to modernize Ninja Gaiden and reignite its fierce action experience. Xbox Game Studios’ involvement ensures a global showcase and Game Pass integration.
Community & Press Reaction
Early impressions highlight excitement over Yakumo’s introduction, the gore-soaked action, and balance of tension and flair. Some fans raised concerns about the influence of PlatinumGames’ style over Ninja Gaiden’s trademark brutality—though most believe the core remains intact. The Deluxe Edition’s cosmetic offerings and premium content were received positively.
Final Thoughts
Ninja Gaiden 4 appears to deliver a powerful return to form—fusing intense combat, polished mechanics, and brutal artistry. With its October 21 launch and inclusion on Game Pass, it’s poised to be one of Fall 2025’s most canonical action-adventure releases.