During Sony's recent State of Play event, The Game Kitchen, alongside publishers Dotemu and Joystick, treated fans of the Ninja Gaiden series to an exciting new trailer. The iconic franchise, known for its retro-futuristic setting, follows the adventures of the legendary ninja Ryu Hayabusa as he battles formidable foes in a vibrant world. The upcoming fourth installment, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, introduces a new protagonist, Yakumo, whose story unfolds after the events of Ninja Gaiden 3.

Koei Tecmo recently announced a highly successful financial year, further fueling anticipation for Ragebound. The Ninja Gaiden series debuted in 1988 as an arcade title, originally titled Shadow Warriors in Europe and Ninja Ryukenden in Japan. Over the years, the franchise has expanded to include more than 20 titles. Ninja Gaiden 4, developed by Nioh studio Team Ninja, is also slated for a late 2025 release.

Revealed during Sony's June State of Play, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound marks a return to the series' 2D origins, reimagining the first chapter of the original trilogy. Fans have praised the game's nostalgic appeal, with many declaring it a triumphant revival of the franchise. Social media buzz has dubbed 2025 as the "Year of the Ninja," with particular acclaim for the game's stunning visuals and fluid animations.

Game Rant's hands-on preview highlighted Ragebound's replayability, thanks to its Golden Scarab collectibles and stage rankings. The preview described the game as a "standout experience" for fans, praising its detailed pixel art and seamless animation that elevate the high-energy action.