In a surprise announcement during today’s Developer_Direct showcase, Team NINJA and PlatinumGames revealed the long-awaited NINJA GAIDEN 4, set to release this fall for PS5, Xbox Game Pass, & PC. Fans were also treated to an unexpected surprise: the launch of NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black, a remastered edition of the 2008 classic, available now on PS5, Xbox Game Pass, & PC for $49.99.
The Return of NINJA GAIDEN
After a 13-year hiatus since NINJA GAIDEN 3, the series returns with a brand-new protagonist, Yakumo, and a transformed Tokyo as its backdrop. The game, co-developed by Team NINJA and PlatinumGames, is being published by Xbox Game Studios and is positioned as a direct sequel to NINJA GAIDEN 3.
According to Fumihiko Yasuda, producer of NINJA GAIDEN 4 at Team NINJA, the collaboration with PlatinumGames was driven by their expertise in action games and a shared vision for revitalizing the series.
A Darker Tokyo and a New Hero
Set in a dystopian Tokyo transformed by the return of the Dark Dragon, NINJA GAIDEN 4 introduces players to Yakumo, a new hero battling chaos and adversity. Despite the fresh protagonist, Ryu Hayabusa, the series’ iconic master ninja, remains integral to the story.
According to Yuji Nakao, director from PlatinumGames, Ryu will not only be a key narrative figure but also a playable character, challenging Yakumo and driving his growth.
To keep gameplay engaging, NINJA GAIDEN 4 introduces high-speed traversal mechanics, such as rail and wire-based movement, adding new layers of strategy and intensity to its renowned combat.

Visuals and Atmosphere
The game’s trailer showcased a rain-soaked, cyberpunk-inspired Tokyo, a stark departure from past settings. Nakao emphasized the role of rain as a visual and thematic motif, representing the devastation caused by the Dark Dragon’s return.
From character designs to environmental details, the team has focused on blending the series’ signature darkness with new, cutting-edge visuals.
NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black: A Gift for Fans
Alongside the NINJA GAIDEN 4 announcement, NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black launched today as a remastered edition of the Xbox 360 classic. The remaster, built in Unreal Engine, retains the original’s visceral combat and gore while incorporating select improvements from NINJA GAIDEN Sigma 2.
Yasuda revealed that the project was inspired by fan feedback following the NINJA GAIDEN Master Collection in 2021. Fans wanted a version closer to the original NINJA GAIDEN 2, and Black delivers just that, with enhanced visuals, refined mechanics, and an updated weapon upgrade system.
Looking Ahead
With NINJA GAIDEN 4 promising a bold new chapter and NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black reigniting nostalgia, fans of the series have much to look forward to in 2025.
Whether revisiting Ryu’s classic adventures or stepping into Yakumo’s shoes for the first time, the return of NINJA GAIDEN signals an exciting era for action gaming.
Stay tuned for more updates as the release of NINJA GAIDEN 4 approaches this fall.