Ryu’s back. And this time, it’s not a remaster or a spinoff. NINJA GAIDEN 4 drops on October 21, and we finally have the global launch schedule.
Whether you’re in New York, Tokyo, or somewhere in between, here’s exactly when you can jump back into the action.
The Return of the Dragon Ninja
Ninja Gaiden 4 is the first mainline entry in years, and it’s being co-developed by Team Ninja and Platinum Games. That alone makes it worth watching.
The game’s launch is staggered across time zones, but preload and day one access are fully confirmed. This includes Xbox Game Pass, which will have it from the moment it goes live.
Ninja Gaiden 4 Release Date
The confirmed global launch times are listed below. Make sure to check your own local time just in case, especially if you live outside the major regions.
Launching Monday, October 20, 2025 (North America):
- 5 PM Pacific Time 6 PM Central Standard Time
- 8 PM Eastern Time
Launching Tuesday, October 21, 2025 (International):
- 1 AM British Summer Time
- 2 AM Central European Summer Time
- 9 AM Korea Standard Time
- 9 AM Japan Standard Time
- 11 AM Australian Eastern Daylight Time
- 1 PM New Zealand Daylight Time
Day One Game Pass Access
Ninja Gaiden 4 is coming to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on day one. If you have an Xbox Series X or Series S, you can download and play it without buying the full edition.
The standard version costs 70 dollars, while the Deluxe Edition goes for 90. Both versions release on October 20 in the US and roll out globally based on your time zone.
Preload and File Sizes
Storage space matters, especially with big releases. Here are the current install sizes across platforms:
- PC: 54.9 GB
- Xbox Series X and Series S: 36.82 GB
- PlayStation 5: 23.55 GB
These numbers might change after launch if patches go live, so keep extra space free if you can. Preload is available, and depending on your internet speed, it should not take long.
Story, New Characters, and Setting
Ninja Gaiden 4 brings Ryu Hayabusa back to the front lines, but he’s not alone. The game introduces a new character named Yakumo. Together, they navigate Tokyo’s criminal underworld. This adds a modern setting to the franchise and creates a strong contrast with past titles.
So far, early impressions suggest the game balances challenge and accessibility better than previous titles and is a fun reunion for series veterans, as well as a great entry point for newcomers.
Accessibility and Difficulty Options
Classic Ninja Gaiden fans know how tough these games can be. Ninja Gaiden 4 aims to offer something for everyone. You can lower the difficulty if you want to focus on the story or keep it high for a real test.
The developers confirmed that there will be modes that feel intentionally punishing. If you’re the type who enjoys struggling through brutal combat, that option is still available. If not, you can tone it down and play at your own pace.
Either way, you’re not locked into one style. You can tweak settings to suit how you want to experience the game.
Ninja Gaiden 4 Release Date Wrap Up
Ninja Gaiden 4 launches globally on October 21, with preload and Game Pass access confirmed. The file sizes are reasonable, the story brings back Ryu with a new co-lead, and the difficulty options make it playable for everyone. Whether you’re a returning fan or jumping in for the first time, this looks like the most flexible Ninja Gaiden yet.
Check your local time, clear your SSD, and get ready. The Dragon Ninja returns.