Team Ninja has finally given fans a clearer picture of what to expect from Ninja Gaiden 4, and it sounds like there will be plenty to keep hardcore players busy long after the credits roll. Speaking with Australian outlet Next Play, Game Director Masakazu Hirayama revealed that the first run through the story should take most players around 15 to 20 hours. 
But that’s just the start.
Once you’ve beaten the main campaign, you’ll unlock the punishing Master Ninja difficulty. Beyond that, the game packs a hefty dose of side content, including Challenge Missions and a Chapter Challenge mode that reimagines sections of the story with tougher twists. Hirayama explained that these missions won’t just be boss battles – some will pit you against waves of enemies under unique conditions, forcing you to adapt your strategies.
Another intriguing addition is the optional ‘Purgatory’ battles, a high-risk, high-reward feature inspired by the Tests of Valor from past Ninja Gaiden titles. Here, players can wager before entering combat, tailoring the difficulty and potential rewards to their own appetite for danger. It’s designed to push even seasoned ninjas to their limits.
Co-developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, and published by Xbox Game Studios, Ninja Gaiden 4 launches October 21 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X. As with all Xbox Game Studios titles, it will hit PC and Xbox Game Pass on day one.