Mon Jun 16 2025
The Ninja Gaiden saga is making a strong comeback with Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a brand-new entry set to release on September 12, 2025, for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. This time, fans can expect a true tribute to the series’ roots, with a fast-paced and stylish 2D gameplay that will spark nostalgia for retro gaming lovers.
Ninja Gaiden was born in arcades in 1988 as a dynamic side-scrolling beat’em up before becoming a cult classic on the NES with a trilogy of challenging and unforgettable action-platformers. Its protagonist, Ryu Hayabusa, quickly became a gaming icon. The series transitioned into 3D in the 2000s on Xbox, delivering brutally difficult titles that defined an era of hardcore gaming.
With Ragebound, the series returns to its roots while embracing modern mechanics. This new installment promises a powerful mix of 8-bit intensity and the fluidity of contemporary productions.
Bringing this project to life are two acclaimed studios: Dotemu and The Game Kitchen.
Dotemu, the French specialist in retro revivals, is known for top-tier titles like Streets of Rage 4, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, and Windjammers 2. The studio has mastered the art of updating classics without losing their original soul.
The Game Kitchen, an independent Spanish developer, made waves with Blasphemous, a dark and demanding metroidvania praised for its artistic direction. Their experience with intense and stylish 2D gameplay makes them a perfect match for this new Ninja Gaiden.
Bonus for collectors: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound will be released in both standard and collector’s physical editions — available for pre-order here — including retro-themed goodies, pins, a fabric map, and more. A true delight for fans of boxed games.
All in all, this new chapter looks to be a heartfelt tribute to Ninja Gaiden’s legacy, powered by developers who know how to honor retro history.