The First Verdict on Ninja Gaiden 4 Is Here
It’s the moment fans of hardcore action games have been waiting for. With the release of Ninja Gaiden 4 just days away, the first reviews have started to surface online, breaking the official embargo. Two European outlets have posted their scores, and if their impressions are anything to go by, Team Ninja has not only revived the legendary franchise but has also delivered a modern classic. The overwhelming sentiment? Ninja Gaiden 4 is a stunning, brutally difficult, and incredibly satisfying experience that perfectly blends the series’ classic feel with modern design.
A Perfect Score and High Praise
The two publications that jumped the gun have set a very high bar. One outlet awarded the game a perfect 10/10, calling it a “masterpiece” and praising its combat as the best in the genre. The other gave it a stellar 9/10, highlighting the game’s breathtaking boss battles and its successful evolution of the beloved Ninja Gaiden formula. Reviewers noted that while the new cyberpunk setting was initially a point of concern for some, the moment-to-moment gameplay is so thrilling that it completely overshadows any aesthetic reservations. The focus is squarely on the fight, and by all accounts, it is phenomenal.
The Best of Both Worlds: Classic Feel, Modern Polish
A common thread in early impressions is how the game manages to feel like a true successor to the classic games while shedding some of their more frustrating elements. Fans who got their hands on early copies have praised the combat for its speed and depth. The influence of PlatinumGames, who co-developed the title, is reportedly felt in the polished design and spectacular boss encounters. One player described the boss fights as “fantastic,” requiring strategic use of the new “Blood Raven” form to stagger powerful enemies. Another recurring point is that while the game is incredibly challenging, it feels fair. The difficulty comes from complex enemy patterns and the need for precision, not from the “objectively bullshit unfair moments” that sometimes plagued the older titles. The addition of modern defensive options like parries and perfect dodges gives players more tools to deal with the chaos, making it a demanding but rewarding experience.
Meet Yakumo, the Blood Raven
One of the most exciting new additions is the second playable character, Yakumo, also known as the Blood Raven. Early impressions are glowing, with one player calling him an “absolute blast” to play. This new character introduces a fresh playstyle that complements Ryu Hayabusa’s classic move set. The new “Blood Form Gauge” is a central mechanic, allowing players to unleash powerful moves to counter unblockable attacks and turn the tide of battle. Mastering this gauge, and knowing when to be strategic rather than just spamming moves, is said to be key to conquering the game’s toughest challenges.
FAQs About the Ninja Gaiden 4 Early Reviews
What are the early review scores for Ninja Gaiden 4?
Two European outlets broke the embargo, giving the game a perfect 10/10 and a 9/10, respectively. Both praised it as a masterpiece of the action genre.
Is the game still as difficult as the older titles?
Yes, by all accounts, the game is brutally challenging. However, reviewers note that the difficulty feels more fair and polished, rewarding skill and precision over the often-unpredictable difficulty of past games.
How is the combat system?
The combat is being universally praised as fast, satisfying, and deep. It reportedly blends the best elements of classic Ninja Gaiden with the modern design polish of co-developer PlatinumGames.
Who is the new playable character?
A new character named Yakumo, or the Blood Raven, is playable alongside Ryu Hayabusa. Early impressions describe his playstyle as incredibly fun and a great addition to the series.
Does the cyberpunk setting work for a Ninja Gaiden game?
While some fans were initially skeptical of the new setting, reviewers and players with early copies agree that the combat is so good that the setting becomes a non-issue. The focus is entirely on the thrilling action.
When do the official reviews for Ninja Gaiden 4 come out?
The official review embargo is expected to lift closer to the game’s release on October 21, 2025.
Conclusion
The hype for Ninja Gaiden 4 was already high, but these early reviews have sent it into overdrive. It seems Team Ninja and PlatinumGames have created something truly special-a game that honors the legacy of a beloved, notoriously difficult series while pushing it forward in exciting new ways. The blend of punishing difficulty, refined combat, and spectacular boss battles is shaping up to be a dream come true for action game connoisseurs. If these first impressions are any indication, Ninja Gaiden 4 isn’t just a great sequel; it’s a strong contender for game of the year.