Ninja Gaiden 4 Available at Walmart for $49.99

Ninja Gaiden 4 is currently listed for $49.99 at Walmart, marking the latest entry in the long-running action series. The title represents a collaboration between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, combining their expertise in action combat mechanics.

The game is set in Tokyo and features a narrative that moves beyond the original protagonist. Instead of focusing solely on Ryu, the game introduces a new character named Yakumo. This dual-protagonist approach allows for a wider range of abilities and gameplay mechanics as players navigate the environment to defeat enemies.

This release is part of a resurgence for the franchise in 2025. Earlier in the year, the series saw the release of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, an enhanced version of a classic title, and Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a 2D sidescroller. Despite mixed reception regarding narrative elements, the combat system has been highlighted as a major draw for the title.

The development of Ninja Gaiden 4 was a joint effort by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames. This partnership resulted in an action combat system described as wild and immensely satisfying. The game shifts the setting to Tokyo, where players combat an evil threat using a variety of mechanics.

A significant change in this installment is the introduction of Yakumo as a new protagonist. While Ryu remains in the game, players now have two characters to play as. This dual-character system introduces all kinds of new abilities to utilize throughout the game.

The gameplay loop is designed to encourage continuous engagement. According to an analysis of the title, the combat mechanics are considered to be in a class of their own within the 3D action genre. The game is positioned as a successor to titles like Devil May Cry 5 and Hi-Fi Rush in terms of pure action gameplay.

Reviews for Ninja Gaiden 4 have highlighted a contrast between its gameplay and other structural elements. The combat system has received high praise, with one review stating, "When it comes to combat, there are few games I’d consider to even be in the same ballpark as Ninja Gaiden 4. It is quite simply the most fun I’ve had with a 3D action game since Devil May Cry 5."

However, the review also pointed out several shortcomings. The narrative was described as disappointing, and the level design was characterized as bland. Additionally, boss battles were noted as being uneven, which put a damper on the overall package.

Despite these criticisms, the game has been cited as the best pure action game since Hi-Fi Rush. The core gameplay loop appears to be strong enough to overcome the blemishes found in the story and level design. The review concluded with hope that the franchise will not wait another 13 years for a sequel.

2025 has been a pivotal year for the Ninja Gaiden franchise. The year began with the release of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, which brought a beloved classic to modern platforms with enhanced visuals.

Following that, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound was released. This title was developed by The Game Kitchen and served as a 2D sidescroller, offering a different style of gameplay within the same universe.

The release of Ninja Gaiden 4 serves as the capstone to this year of activity. It returns to the 3D action roots of the series while innovating with new character dynamics. The availability of the game at a major retailer like Walmart makes it accessible to a wide audience looking to experience the new combat systems.