After more than a decade, Ninja Gaiden is officially back. Team Ninja, in collaboration with Platinum Games, has unveiled Ninja Gaiden 4, slated to release in Fall 2025. The highly anticipated sequel was announced during the Xbox Developer Direct, where fans were treated to a gripping gameplay trailer and new story details.
Set in a rain-soaked, neon-lit Tokyo, Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces Yakumo, a young member of the Raven clan, as the new protagonist. On a mission to defeat the Dark Dragon and its lingering evil, Yakumo brings a fresh perspective to the series. Notably, his clan is a rival of the Hayabusa clan, and Yakumo holds a personal grudge against the franchise’s iconic ninja, Ryu Hayabusa.
The trailer gave fans a tantalizing look at Yakumo’s dynamic combat style and platforming abilities, along with a heated confrontation between him and Hayabusa. In one dramatic moment, Yakumo declares, “Step aside, Hayabusa—I’ll finish this mission.” This rivalry sets the stage for a story that intertwines the new hero’s journey with the legacy of the legendary ninja.
Although Yakumo is the star of Ninja Gaiden 4, fans can rest assured that Ryu Hayabusa will still play a major part in the story. According to producer Fumihiko Yasuda, Hayabusa will serve as a key figure in the narrative, with his motivations and actions unfolding as the game progresses. The clash between the two ninjas promises to be one of the game’s highlights, offering a mix of tension, legacy, and high-stakes drama.
The trailer showcased the series’ signature fast-paced combat, blending Team Ninja’s precision with Platinum Games’ flair for stylish action. Players can expect Yakumo to wield an array of weapons and abilities, seamlessly transitioning between brutal combat and fluid platforming. The game’s world, ravaged by eternal rain and darkness following the events of Ninja Gaiden 3, adds a brooding atmosphere that complements the intense action.
Ninja Gaiden 4 is just the beginning. A remake of Ninja Gaiden 2 and a spinoff titled Ninja Gaiden: Radebound are also in development, signaling a full revival of the franchise.
With its thrilling trailer and intriguing story, Ninja Gaiden 4 is shaping up to be a triumphant return for the series. The game will launch on Xbox, PC, and PS5 in Fall 2025.