Last updated on October 13, 2025
After years of absence and failed revival attempts, 2025 marks the true return of ninja gaming’s legendary franchise. Amid a wave of ninja-themed titles flooding the Japanese scene—Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Shinobi, and Ghost of Yotei—one name stands out for nostalgic fans: Ninja Gaiden 4.
A Surprise Collaboration and Reveal
Unveiled at the Tokyo Game Show 2025, the new installment brings together Team Ninja and PlatinumGames in a powerhouse partnership promising adrenaline-fueled action, high speed, and outstanding technical flair.
A New Hero Steps In: Yakumo of the Raven Clan
Expectations were high for the comeback of Ryu Hayabusa, but the playable demo surprised everyone with Yakumo—a young, stylish ninja from the rival Raven Clan. Yakumo is quick, precise, and introduces an original combat twist: the Bloodraven Form. This mechanic enables him to manipulate his own blood (and that of his foes) to forge temporary weapons and unleash brutal attacks.
Ryu Hayabusa hasn’t disappeared, though; he remains a playable character crucial to the story, anchoring the franchise’s roots while the new installment boldly breaks into fresh territory.
PlatinumGames Reimagines Gaiden Combat
The biggest change comes behind the scenes, with PlatinumGames renowned for titles like Bayonetta and Nier: Automata now steering the series. The result is seamless combos, cinematic battles, and a combat system focused on tight reflexes and precision—perfectly demonstrated in the playable demo’s signature “perfect dodge,” slowing time for devastating counterattacks. Players balance light and heavy strikes with the R1 and R2 buttons, while unleashing a special L2 technique that consumes weapon energy but devastates enemies.
Boss Fight: Precision Meets Punishment
Far from a gentle tutorial, the demo climaxed with a cybernetic samurai boss encounter, blending traditional and futuristic design. This two-phase duel demands flawless timing for counters—any mistake can end the battle instantly. The difficulty isn’t punishing for its own sake; it’s what makes every victory feel earned and every fight memorable.
Cyberpunk Visuals and Smooth Performance
Art direction is a bold blend of classic Japanese motifs and cyberpunk vibes, inspired by ’90s anime and futuristic cityscapes. Technical realism takes a back seat to fast responsiveness, with smooth 60 FPS gameplay ensuring Ninja Gaiden’s trademark split-second action remains at the forefront.
Why This Might Be a Top-Tier Action Game
Defeating the demo boss leaves players with the sense that Ninja Gaiden 4 has all the ingredients for a major hit. Ryu Hayabusa returns, Yakumo refreshes the formula, and PlatinumGames seems ready to guide the franchise into an exciting new era.
