The return of the “legendary Japanese series” promised by Windows Central editor Jez Corden at the Developer_Direct presentation resulted in two announcements for the Ninja Gaiden slasher franchise from Koei Tecmo.
Image source: Koei Tecmo
First, Koei Tecmo introduced Ninja Gaiden 4, the first new title in the series in 13 years. It will be released next fall on PC (Steam), PS5, Xbox Series X and S, as well as directly on Game Pass.
Ninja Gaiden 4 is being developed by Team Ninja in collaboration with PlatinumGames (Bayonetta series, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, Nier: Automata). The announcement was accompanied by a three-minute gameplay trailer.
Ninja Gaiden 4 players will take on the role of a new protagonist, Yakumo, as Tokyo is thrown into chaos by the return of the Dark Dragon. The hero will have to fight with many enemies, including the master Ryu Hayabusa.
Secondly, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black was announced – a remake of the original Ninja Gaiden 2, which debuted on the Xbox 360 in 2008. You won’t have to wait long for the updated version – it will be released today, January 23, on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, S and Game Pass.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black was created using Unreal Engine 5 and was a response to fan requests following the release of Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection in 2021. The Black subtitle symbolizes the ultimatum of the new version.
The remake is positioned as a game for veterans of the original release, as well as for newcomers to the franchise. The reimagining includes elements from Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, an iconic level of brutality and an adjusted weapon upgrade system.