Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound has been officially announced for a summer 2025 release, bringing the beloved series back to its roots with a 2D side-scrolling action-adventure format. Developed by The Game Kitchen, renowned for their work on Blasphemous, in conjunction with Dotemu and Koei Tecmo, the game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Game Overview
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is designed to fuse the classic gameplay and storyline of the original 8-bit Ninja Gaiden titles with the depth and intensity found in modern 3D games. The title features meticulously crafted pixel art visuals reminiscent of Blasphemous, promising a challenging experience that pays tribute to the series’ rich legacy.
Storyline
The story unfolds with Ryu Hayabusa journeying to America to fulfill his father’s final wishes. During his absence, the boundary between the human and demon realms collapses, releasing a demonic army upon Hayabusa Village. In response, Kenji Mozu, a young ninja from the village, steps up to confront this emerging threat.
Gameplay Features
Classic Gameplay with Contemporary Enhancements: The game preserves the approachable, pick-up-and-play action of classic titles while integrating new layers of complexity.
Demanding Mechanics: Designed to be easy to learn yet challenging to master, the game caters to fans of the series’ well-known difficulty.
Stunning Pixel Art: The visuals honor the classic style while pushing the limits of modern pixel art, ensuring every battle is visually captivating.
The announcement was made during The Game Awards 2024, along with a trailer that showcased fast-paced action and intricate environments. This marks the first new installment in the Ninja Gaiden series since 2014’s Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z, aiming to deliver both nostalgia and innovation for dedicated fans and newcomers alike.
