Team Ninja Marks 30 Years with Mysterious Plans

Team Ninja's 30th Anniversary: Big Plans on the Horizon

Team Ninja, the Koei Tecmo subsidiary renowned for action titles like Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, has hinted at significant projects to mark its 30th anniversary in 2025. While famous for these franchises, the studio has also expanded its portfolio with successful soulslike RPGs, including the Nioh series and collaborations with Square Enix (Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty). The recent PlayStation 5 exclusive, Rise of the Ronin, further showcases their diverse capabilities.

According to Fumihiko Yasuda, speaking to 4Gamer.net (as reported by Gematsu), Team Ninja aims to release titles befitting this milestone anniversary. Although details remain scarce, speculation centers on potential new entries in the Dead or Alive or Ninja Gaiden franchises. Yasuda simply stated, "In 2025, Team Ninja will celebrate its 30th anniversary, and we hope to announce and release titles fitting for the occasion."

What Might 2025 Hold?

A significant development is the recently announced Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, revealed at The Game Awards 2024. This side-scrolling title aims to revitalize the series, blending classic 8-bit gameplay with modern enhancements. This follows the divisive 2014 release, Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z.

The Dead or Alive franchise, meanwhile, hasn't seen a mainline entry since Dead or Alive 6 in 2019. While spin-offs have continued, many fans eagerly anticipate a new core game for the anniversary. Similarly, the Nioh series has a dedicated fanbase hoping for a sequel or related announcement. The year 2025 promises exciting developments from Team Ninja as they celebrate three decades of game development.