The Game Awards 2024 delivered a surprise announcement for fans of retro and modern action games. Growing up, I loved the Ninja Gaiden games on the NES and had long hoped for a new 2D entry in the series.
Dotemu, known for reviving classic franchises, has teamed up with The Game Kitchen, creators of Blasphemous, to reveal Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound. This side-scrolling action-platformer combines the essence of the NES-era Ninja Gaiden games with modern gameplay mechanics. The announcement trailer, shown at The Game Awards, offered a first look at its fast-paced combat and platforming, ahead of its planned Summer 2025 release.
Kenji Mozu’s Fight to Save Hayabusa Village
Set in Hayabusa Village, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound follows Kenji Mozu, a young ninja confronting a demonic invasion. While Ryu Hayabusa is in America, the barrier between the human and demon worlds breaks, leaving the village exposed.
Kenji must protect his home and its people from the rising threat in this new chapter of the Ninja Gaiden series. The story ties directly to events from the original NES game, expanding on its lore with a fresh perspective.
Old-School Combat Meets Modern Precision
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound combines classic 2D side-scrolling action with updated mechanics designed for newcomers and experienced fans alike. The gameplay emphasizes fast-paced combat, challenging platforming, and boss fights requiring precise timing and skill. Kenji Mozu’s journey includes upgradable abilities, hidden collectibles, and optional missions, adding flexibility to how players approach progression.
The game features pixel art visuals that reinterpret the Ninja Gaiden universe, showcasing diverse environments, traps, and enemy designs. The soundtrack, created with contributions from guest composers, complements the action and enhances the game’s overall atmosphere.
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound Slashes Onto Screens Summer 2025
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is set to launch in Summer 2025 for PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms. Developed by The Game Kitchen and published by Dotemu, the game reimagines the Ninja Gaiden series with updated mechanics and a 2D side-scrolling approach. Its pixel art style brings the franchise to life with modern visuals, while retaining the series’ signature action gameplay.
What are your thoughts on this announcement? Are you excited to see Ninja Gaiden return to its 2D roots?
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