We had an inkling that Ninja Gaiden 4 would end up being a bit of a divisive return for the classic action franchise — but, at least based on what we've seen around the web, the game seems to have gone down pretty well with both newcomers and longtime fans.
Developed in collaboration between series stalwart Team Ninja and PlatinumGames — of Bayonetta, Vanquish, and NieR: Automata fame — Ninja Gaiden 4 plays a little differently from its mainline predecessors.
There are some clear Platinum influences here, with timed defensive techniques feeling like they've been pulled straight from the studio's previous works. But the game still manages to retain that unapologetically fast and downright brutal Ninja Gaiden DNA.
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"This is a rock solid action game that delivers on what's most important — the combat," is what we wrote in our Ninja Gaiden 4 PS5 review.
We ended up giving the title a 'good' 7/10, criticising its bland level design and predictable story, but heaping praise on its all-out action.
"It doesn't hit every mark, but the simplistic structure, emphasis on technical combat, and even the cheesy performances combine for an action game that feels like it's from a bygone era, in the best way possible," we concluded.