Ninja Gaiden 4 continues from the events of Ninja Gaiden 3 and takes place in a futuristic, chaotic Tokyo. The game mixes the classic fast-paced combat with new elements, including new abilities for the protagonist Yakumo. Traditional characters like Ryu Hayabusa also appear but with a different narrative focus. The game’s story involves facing the resurgence of the Dark Dragon in a transformed city environment.

A new beginning, not a retelling

When Team Ninja announced Ninja Gaiden 4 earlier this year, many assumed it might be a remake of the original 2004 classic. However, the developers quickly clarified that this new installment is a true sequel, continuing the storyline after Ninja Gaiden 3 (2012) while introducing a new protagonist, a new narrative tone, and modern gameplay systems.

The game represents the series’ long-awaited return rather than a reimagining of something old. With more than a decade since the last mainline release, Ninja Gaiden 4 is positioned as a bold step forward for the franchise.

Why players might confuse it for a remake

The confusion around Ninja Gaiden 4’s nature comes from a few factors. The “4” in its title naturally connects it to past games, leading many to believe it could be a retelling. Additionally, remasters such as Ninja Gaiden Sigma and Master Collection have kept the franchise alive in recent years, setting the expectation for another re-release rather than a fresh game.

Team Ninja’s use of the phrase “legacy reborn” during its reveal also contributed to that impression. However, the developer meant a spiritual revival — not a literal remake of older games.

How to understand the difference between a remake and a sequel

Point 1

A remake rebuilds an older game using new technology but keeps the same story structure, locations, and core gameplay loop.

Point 2

A sequel continues the existing storyline, expands the universe, and introduces new characters or systems.

Point 3

Ninja Gaiden 4 does the latter. It follows events from earlier titles and introduces new lore, mechanics, and enemies — all hallmarks of a sequel, not a remake.

Fans of the original trilogy can expect Ninja Gaiden 4 to retain the series’ signature high-intensity combat, tight controls, and punishing difficulty. However, newcomers will find modernized systems that improve accessibility without sacrificing challenge.

The involvement of PlatinumGames also hints at a slightly faster, more fluid combat style reminiscent of Bayonetta — a noticeable shift from the precision-heavy combat of earlier Ninja Gaiden entries.