KOEI TECMO’s Team Ninja is set to return to its acclaimed action series with NINJA GAIDEN 4, scheduled for release on October 21, 2025, across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Ahead of the game’s official launch, the studio has already confirmed a post-release content plan with a new expansion titled “The Two Masters.” The DLC is expected to arrive in early 2026, expanding the core experience with new weapons, story content, and challenges.
Game Director Masakazu Hirayama shared details about the upcoming expansion during the latest episode of the Official Xbox Podcast, recorded at Tokyo Game Show 2025. According to Hirayama, the DLC will focus on two central characters—Yakumo and Ryu Hayabusa—each receiving a new weapon tailored to their combat styles.
Yakumo’s weapon is designed to reflect his expressive and fluid fighting techniques, emphasizing versatility and adaptability in close combat. Ryu’s new weapon, on the other hand, is crafted for speed and precision, giving players access to fast, powerful attacks that enhance the game’s dynamic combat system. Both weapons will introduce distinct mechanics that aim to deepen the gameplay and give long-time fans new strategies to explore.
In addition to combat updates, The Two Masters will include new story chapters that take place after the events of the base game. The narrative will unfold from the perspectives of both Ryu and Yakumo, expanding on their relationship and roles in the NINJA GAIDEN 4 universe. Players can expect fresh missions, cinematic sequences, and lore elements that build upon the game’s main story.
Team Ninja also confirmed that the DLC will bring new post-game challenge content, separate from the Ninja Trials featured in the main campaign. These challenges are intended to test players’ mastery of the new weapons and combat mechanics while offering extended replay value for those seeking additional endgame content.
The Two Masters DLC will be available to players who purchase the Deluxe Edition of NINJA GAIDEN 4 or the Deluxe Edition Upgrade, priced approximately $20 more than the standard version. This edition also includes bonus content and digital extras for dedicated fans.
While Team Ninja stated that the base campaign will take around 15 to 20 hours to complete, the DLC is expected to significantly increase the overall playtime. Though no exact figure was provided, the studio hinted that the expansion will offer enough depth to keep players engaged long after finishing the main storyline.
With NINJA GAIDEN 4 nearing release and post-launch content already in development, Team Ninja appears focused on delivering a complete experience that combines fast-paced action, refined combat systems, and extended narrative depth. Fans of the series can look forward to both the main game and The Two Masters DLC as the next chapter in the legacy of NINJA GAIDEN.
