The Critics’ Verdict
After a 13-year break, Ninja Gaiden 4 lands with the kind of precision-cut combat fans have been craving — but it slices unevenly outside the arena.
IGN called the fighting “phenomenal”, praising its relentless enemy aggression and Platinum-style flair. They described Yakumo’s Bloodraven Form as a brilliant twist that deepens strategy without softening the trademark challenge. Still, they weren’t impressed with the story or level design, calling both “uninspired” and “predictable.” Read full review on IGN.
VGC agreed on the combat highs, describing the game as “relentlessly entertaining” and technically stunning at 60 or even 120 FPS. But they also warned of fatigue, with repetitive encounter loops and a campaign that “threatens to outstay its welcome.” Read full review on VGC.
Both outlets credit Team Ninja and PlatinumGames for crafting a system that feels powerful, stylish, and demanding in all the right ways — yet neither could ignore how flat the narrative and environments felt in between fights.
Outpost View
For us, Ninja Gaiden 4’s combat is everything you want from an action game in 2025. It’s not just about difficulty — it’s about that flow state when every dodge, parry, and counter lands perfectly. That’s what keeps you locked in.
I’m glad the devs added Hero mode and assist options; they open the gates for new players without taking anything away from veterans. Accessibility in tough games isn’t a weakness — it’s growth.
The Bloodraven Form? A great addition — so long as it doesn’t break balance. It fits right in with the Platinum flair, giving combat that cinematic brutality without turning it into chaos.
VGC mentioned you can mash through on easy settings, and honestly, I see that as flexible onboarding. Not every player needs to master 50-hit combos to enjoy it. Still, the real hook isn’t flashy weapon swapping — it’s the AI pressure. Every fight feels alive, like the enemies are actually learning.
Where I do think it slips is the progression system. IGN called the early upgrade economy stingy, and I agree — when Deluxe players start with more resources, that’s a red flag. It shouldn’t feel like you’re being punished for buying the standard edition.
As for the story — no, you don’t ignore it entirely. It’s serviceable background noise, but a stronger narrative would’ve elevated everything. Yakumo isn’t Ryu, but he doesn’t need to be boring either.
Level design is where I’d shave a few points off. The arenas are solid, but the journey between them shouldn’t feel like filler. And while boss quality swings between amazing and “meh,” I actually like that mix — it adds pacing and unpredictability.
A tighter campaign might have made it stronger overall. The repeated stage VGC noted is a definite misstep, even if I still think longer content offers better value.
Performance-wise, it’s simple: choose Performance Mode. No debate. Ninja Gaiden 4 deserves to be played as smoothly as possible.
When it comes to replaying, I’m a one-and-done player here. The Master Ninja and challenge trials are great additions, but I don’t think most players will live in it long-term — and that’s fine.
For our UK audience — gamers aged 16–30 — I’d call this a “wait for sale” title. The combat is world-class, but the uneven design and repetition make it hard to justify full price. If it hits Game Pass, it’s a no-brainer.
It sits comfortably beside Devil May Cry 5 and Hi-Fi Rush — fluid, flashy, and fun, even if it doesn’t quite reach their polish.
Verdict & Recommendation
Ninja Gaiden 4 proves that few studios can deliver combat this sharp. But the dull story, recycled missions, and uneven pacing keep it just shy of greatness.
If you crave high-speed swordplay and can forgive repetition, it’s a must-play — just maybe not at launch price.
Outpost Rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ (7/10)