While *DOOM: The Dark Ages* stole the spotlight at Developer_Direct for many gamers, it wasn't the only highlight. The broadcast also brought exciting news for fans of the ninja genre with the announcement of *Ninja Gaiden 4*, the latest installment in Koei Tecmo's renowned series. Mark your calendars for a fall 2025 release.
The debut trailer promises an adrenaline-fueled action slasher, with the iconic ninja Ryu Hayabusa returning as the protagonist. *Ninja Gaiden 4* introduces innovative gameplay mechanics, including swift traversal using wires and rails, as showcased in the trailer. These new features are set to redefine the series' signature fast-paced combat.
The game's setting is a visually striking cyberpunk city, enveloped in a continuous toxic rain. Players will navigate this dystopian landscape, battling waves of modified soldiers and otherworldly creatures, all while striving to break an ancient curse that plagues the megacity.
In addition to the new title, the event featured a significant remaster of *Ninja Gaiden 2*. This enhanced version, already available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, is part of the Game Pass catalog. Team Ninja has utilized Unreal Engine 5 (UE5) for this remaster, completely overhauling character models, visual effects, and environments. They've also integrated elements from more recent series entries, including three new playable characters, enriching the experience for both new and returning players.
Koei Tecmo's efforts on both *Ninja Gaiden 4* and the *Ninja Gaiden 2* remaster have garnered significant attention and praise from the gaming community, highlighting their commitment to delivering exceptional gaming experiences.