Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, the latest installment in the iconic hack-and-slash series, has taken the gaming world by storm with its stellar reviews. Developed by The Game Kitchen, this side-scrolling platformer is set to launch on July 31, 2025, across PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

Breaking away from the series' traditional protagonist, Ryu Hayabusa, Ragebound introduces two new playable characters: Kenji Muzo and Kumori. This spin-off title marks a return to the franchise's 2D roots, last seen in the 1992 Ninja Gaiden for the Sega Master System. The game's 8-bit art style adds a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of classic '80s arcade games.

Critical Acclaim for Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound

Despite being the first 2D entry in years, Ragebound has garnered overwhelming praise from critics. With an average score of 87 on OpenCritic (based on 45 reviews), it currently stands as the highest-rated platformer of 2025, surpassing competitors like Blade Chimera. Game Rant's own review awarded it a 9/10, calling it a "near-perfect" revival of the classic formula.

What's Next for the Franchise?

Following the success of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black and Ragebound, fans are eagerly awaiting Ninja Gaiden 4, set to release on October 21, 2025. This marks the first mainline entry in 13 years, featuring a brand-new protagonist, Yakumo, and continuing the legacy of Koei Tecmo's beloved series.