NINJA GAIDEN 4 Preview from Tokyo Game Show 2025: Hands-On Experience

Ninja Gaiden 4: A Bold Evolution in Action Gaming

Unveiled earlier this year at Xbox’s Developer Direct, Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the long-awaited return of this iconic franchise, helmed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames. This sequel is particularly notable as it introduces a fresh protagonist, Yakumo, a member of the Raven clan and heir to the powers of the Dark Dragon—a character who has historically clashed with the beloved Ryu Hayabusa. Players can expect an immersive character action experience that pays homage to the series’ rich legacy.

An Uncompromising and Gory Experience

Ninja Gaiden 4 doesn’t shy away from extreme violence; it stands out as one of the bloodiest action games in recent memory. Engaging in combat, players will witness brutal finishing moves that send limbs flying with an impressive display of blood. While this visceral element harks back to classic titles, it might require players to tweak accessibility settings if they find the gore overwhelming. Yakumo’s unique Bloodraven form harnesses this bloodshed, introducing a novel gameplay mechanic that not only intensifies the action but also empowers him to use blood as a weapon.

Combat Versatility with Yakumo

Yakumo mirrors Ryu Hayabusa’s combat prowess while also bringing his unique flair. He can wield various weapons, from a lethal katana to a spear and a powerful hammer. Players can equip two weapons simultaneously, enhancing combat depth with blood-based counterattacks and combo finishers. For instance, the thrusting sword acts more like a war rapier, transforming into a formidable drill in its blood-drained state. Though it may struggle against groups, Yakumo’s Flying Swallow technique enables him to engage multiple foes effectively from afar.

Thrilling Gameplay Dynamics

Combat in Ninja Gaiden 4 is inherently frenetic, as Yakumo rarely finds himself up against singular foes; hordes of enemies often surround him. The game features a user-friendly targeting system that allows players to fluidly shift attacks between enemies during combos. Players can also utilize shuriken to maintain offensive momentum and disrupt enemy actions. Transitioning between weapons is instantaneous, enabling strategies such as switching from a thrusting sword to a spinning staff to keep adversaries on their toes. This level of flexibility proves critical, especially when employing heavy hitters like a rocket-powered hammer to break enemy defenses.

A Challenging Adventure Awaits

Pushing the envelope of action gaming, Ninja Gaiden 4 delivers a compelling challenge—one that many recent titles have lacked. The demo showcased at the Tokyo Game Show revealed a robust difficulty that inspires aggressive play, urging players to adapt their game style against varied enemy types and bosses. Having the opportunity to experience this firsthand has heightened my anticipation for what promises to be a standout action title in 2025.

A New Visual Style and Launch Date

The transition to a cyberpunk aesthetic represents a natural evolution in the Ninja Gaiden series, moving away from the traditional environments seen in past installments. The game’s setting is characterized by industrial landscapes cloaked in perpetual rain, offering a dramatic backdrop for exhilarating combat. While nostalgic fans might yearn for the quaint locales of Hayabusa Village, the vibrant urban setting adds a refreshing dimension to the series.

The long wait for Ninja Gaiden 4 is approaching its end, with the game set to launch on Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC on October 21st. Additionally, it will be available on day one for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, making it accessible to an even wider audience.

As anticipation builds, Ninja Gaiden 4 is poised to be a game-changer, blending nostalgic elements with innovative mechanics that redefine the action genre.

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