Racing through a Tokyo consumed by darkness, slipping behind enemies and striking in a flash. A standoff where you are against all odds, dancing on the edge of death in relentless swordplay. Before I realized, the character I was controlling felt less like a digital avatar, and more like an extension of my own body.

Ninja Gaiden 4 doesn’t just let you play as a ninja—it slowly, silently transforms your mind and body into one.

Since its explosive reveal at this year’s Developer Direct, Ninja Gaiden 4 has been featured on Xbox Wire, spotlighting several key elements: Yakumo, the new protagonist, the near-future Tokyo landscape, the visceral Bloodraven Form that redefines the series’ combat, and the long-awaited return of Ryu Hayabusa.

But now that I’ve played through the first three chapters, it’s clear that there’s more beneath the surface. Something deeper. Something that demanded to be uncovered.

What makes Ninja Gaiden 4 so striking is its ability to draw players into a state of flow, where reaction overtakes thought, and instinct replaces intention.

You’re not just pressing buttons. It’s as if your entire nervous system is tuned to every motion, every enemy, every second. You’re not calculating the perfect moment. You’re responding with something closer to that of pure animal instinct.

It feels as though the game is training you, refining your senses to match the pace and pressure of the world it throws you into.

To get to the heart of this immersive design, the Xbox Wire Japan editorial team sat down with Yuji Nakao, the producer and director of Ninja Gaiden 4 himself.

After spending time in the early chapters, we brought the questions that naturally rose from the experience, unfiltered and direct. The conversation ranged from the intricacies of the battle system, to the shaping of this new Ninja Gaiden world, to the dynamic between Yakumo and Ryu. And in their answers, we uncovered a philosophy: a quiet intensity and clarity of purpose driving the game’s ferocious polish.

In this article, we revisit the moments that pulled us so deeply into Ninja Gaiden 4’s world, and together with the developers’ insights, unravel the secrets behind its razor-sharp design.

First, can you tell us about the world design of the initial stage where players accompany Yakumo?

In this game, players will start from the ground and ascend upward through a reimagined “Sky City Tokyo.” In other words, Ninja Gaiden 4 inverts what we believe was the structure of Ninja Gaiden 2, and players will experience Yakumo climbing his way up from its depths. This inversion directly reflects one of the game’s central themes in Yakumo’s growth, and the level design is built to faithfully support that idea.

The setting of Tokyo at the beginning of the story is drastically different — it’s now infested with Daemon (supernatural beings) and is under the control of a hostile faction called the Divine Dragon Order. Time has passed, and the city has transformed under various influences, giving it a much more oppressive, eerie, and fear-inducing atmosphere.

Chapters 1 through 3 focus tightly on Yakumo’s perspective as he begins his climb toward becoming a master ninja, offering players an inverted viewpoint compared to Ryu’s. It’s an intense, condensed experience that we hope everyone will enjoy.

What kind of experience did you intend for players to have in these three chapters, and what expectations did you want to set?

Each of these early chapters has been carefully crafted to serve as the foundation for the story of Ninja Gaiden 4. In Chapter 1, our main goal was to let players enjoy the sheer thrill of battle, drawing on stage design that embodies the essence of the Ninja Gaiden series. Then, in Chapter 2, we introduced the newly added rail action mechanic, aiming to deliver a sense of speed and fluidity that still feels authentic to the franchise. And finally, Chapter 3 culminates in a boss fight that showcases just how far the series has come, offering an evolved encounter befitting a brand-new entry after more than a decade.

These chapters serve as an introductory arc in every sense. They pack in all the essential gameplay elements that players will need to carry into the rest of the game. As the story progresses, the mechanics you learn here will become increasingly intertwined, driving faster, more intense, and more terrifying battles that never let up.

Hopping onto rails in-between battles, and swerving through obstacles with the press of a button added a refreshing dynamic that hasn’t been seen in previous Ninja Gaiden games. How did you ensure this new feature still felt true to the Ninja Gaiden experience?

The rail action mechanic was designed to keep players engaged, even during brief pauses between battles. With Ninja Gaiden 4, we aimed to deliver the fastest-paced action experience in the series so far, not only in combat but across the entire stage structure. Simply put, we didn’t want the momentum to break. The rail action serves as a kind of “spice” for the game, offering exhilarating and tension-filled moments even during transitions and movement sequences.

For instance, you might finish a rail sequence, leap into the next area, and immediately strike down an enemy, a “NINJA KILL” if you may. Then you hop onto another rail, start moving again, and suddenly find yourself dodging falling skyscrapers. These unpredictable, fast-paced scenarios create a live-action feel—something constantly evolving and urgent.

At first glance, some players might worry that introducing gimmicks like this could water down the core identity of a Ninja Gaiden experience. Our goal wasn’t to dilute the experience, but to add to it without compromising its core. If anything, the rail action strengthens the game’s identity.

Were there any challenges in integrating such a new mechanic into the traditionally structured stages of Ninja Gaiden?

We spent a lot of time figuring out how much rail action to include and how to balance it within each stage. One of our biggest challenges, especially in collaboration with Team NINJA, was making sure the rail sequences felt natural and didn’t disrupt the density of gameplay that fans expect from the series.

That density is a hallmark of Ninja Gaiden, and when you try to add rail segments on top of already intense combat, there’s a risk that the stage becomes overly bloated.

To achieve the perfect balance, we played and replayed the stages countless times, adjusting and refining them based on feedback. Together with Team NINJA, we went through that loop over and over. We’re now at a point where the experience feels incredibly polished, and just the right tempo. If players find themselves flowing through the game as if they’re running a smooth marathon, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do. And if players feel the rail action is seamlessly woven into the game without disrupting the Ninja Gaiden experience, then I’ll be more than happy.

In the early part of the game, players face a boss with very direct, linear movement patterns, followed by another boss who moves unpredictably and erratically. Can you elaborate on the differences in these experiences and the design philosophy behind them?

Let’s start with the first boss, the D.D.O. Commander. He belongs to an organization called the Divine Dragon Order, which outwardly presents itself as a force of justice. Because of this, Yakumo, who acts in opposition to them, is labeled as the villain.

In terms of gameplay, the Divine Dragon Order, and the D.D.O. Commander in particular, are characterized by discipline and order. Their fighting style is highly structured, focused on “kata (forms)” and patterns, reflecting their rigid hierarchy. Their attacks are straightforward, easy to read, and symbolically meant to be “clean.”

The D.D.O. Commander is designed to let players learn the game’s controls in a natural and stress-free way. Throwing a wildly erratic enemy at the player right out of the gate would only frustrate them. So instead, the D.D.O. Commander is someone players can face head-on, offering a chance to practice the fundamentals. In that sense, he’s deliberately built as a boss who embodies the basics. He’s honest and by the book.

Next comes the Kitsune Courtesan, affectionately nicknamed the “Oiran Kitsune (Fox)” by our staff. She symbolizes the newly introduced Daemon, which are otherworldly beings central to this game’s narrative.

Unlike the demons or the fiends that appeared in previous Ninja Gaiden entries, the Daemon in this game are mysterious entities that seemingly emerge from our own world. No one knows where they came from or what they want. This unsettling ambiguity, which highlights the fear of the unknown, is reflected in their visuals, behavior, and especially in their attack styles.

You’ll see that her movements are highly unpredictable and distinctly inhuman. She attacks with what feels like magical power, defying logical combat patterns. The goal here was to instill a sense of fear rooted in the unexpected. This is very different from the disciplined combat of the Divine Dragon Order, and the contrast is intentional.

As the first major Daemon boss, the Kitsune Courtesan is meant to be a symbolic figure, an embodiment of the unknown. Her presence marks a shift in both the gameplay and the narrative, signaling that the threats in Ninja Gaiden 4 go far beyond what players may expect.

A new weapon called “Yatosen” was introduced during this hands-on. Could you explain its key features and how it differs from “Takeminakata”, the dual blade?

TheYatosen is designed around the concept of ultra-close-range combat. In its default form, when using the Base Form, it takes the shape of a twisted drill-like rapier, something similar to what you might call a twist sword or twist knife. When you switch to the Bloodraven form, it transforms into a spinning drill.

In contrast to the Takeminakata, which allows you to extend its blade using the Bloodraven form and strike from a distance, the Yatosen takes the opposite approach. It’s meant for players who want to get right up close to enemies, using thrusts, stabs, and piercing attacks. It’s a weapon built for tight, one-on-one encounters. In certain scenarios, it may even be more effective and easier to handle than the Takeminakata.

The Yatosen does require a bit more finesse than Takeminakata. It’s not the kind of weapon you can just swing wildly. You’ll get the most out of it by choosing the right moments and enemy types. It’s a tool that greatly rewards players who tailor their approach to each situation. In that sense, the Yatosen really represents a flexible and exciting option within the player’s arsenal.

In this title, we’ve learned that players can freely switch weapons in the middle of a combo. This system seems to explosively expand the range of combat dynamics. Could you tell us more about the reasoning behind implementing this feature?

Because this is a brand-new numbered title being delivered more than 10 years since the last one, we felt it was necessary to evolve every aspect of the game experience. The real-time weapon switching system is one such important piece of that evolution. Naturally, it improves responsiveness in action gameplay, and for advanced players, it also facilitates combo construction. With the aim of enhancing the quality of the action experience and expanding gameplay variety, we adopted this new method.

This free-switching system was part of our concept from the early stages of development. We were confident that it would make Ninja Gaiden, as a full-fledged 3D action game, even more enjoyable. And once you play it, you’ll find it’s a fun mechanic that makes you want to try out various weapons more casually. We are proud to present this as one of the highlights of the title, and we hope everyone will enjoy it.

In the demo version, players were able to use all weapon techniques and martial arts from the start. However, in the actual game, we assume that the degree to which these are acquired will vary significantly depending on the player’s skill and the game’s difficulty level. With that in mind, we’d like to ask: is it still possible to progress through the game even if players fail to learn most of the weapon techniques or martial arts?

If I were to give a bit of advice, I’d still recommend first acquiring the low-cost Combat and Weapon Skills, and then gradually work your way up to the more expensive and advanced ones. As you progress, you can try out different skills and see which ones suit your playstyle. This process allows you to develop your own approach to combat and enjoy a more personalized Ninja Gaiden 4 experience.

We’ve tried to prevent situations where players are completely stuck because they haven’t learned any Combat Skills. Of course, if someone intentionally avoids learning new techniques and continues playing that way, the game can essentially turn into a self-imposed hardcore challenge (laughs).

Anyhow, you’ll begin by spending Ninja Coins to learn the cheaper techniques, and under Tyran’s guidance, you’ll train and practice each move in combat scenarios. Through this process, you’ll slowly but surely develop the skill set needed to overcome the next big challenge. That sense of growth and mastery is what we believe defines the gameplay experience of Ninja Gaiden 4.

One of the things we’re most confident about in Ninja Gaiden 4 is just how rich and varied the action system is. We’ve prepared such a wide array of systems because, in the end, we want players to discover the styles and combat feel that resonate most with them. Even among techniques or weapons that serve similar purposes, there’s a full spectrum, from low-risk, low-return options to high-risk, high-reward ones, allowing players to choose what works best for them.

Moreover, in actual gameplay, the situation changes rapidly, and the number of enemies can become overwhelming. The true fun of this game lies in selecting the best technique for those evolving situations. That’s precisely why we didn’t want to throw everything at the player from the start. Instead, we designed the game so that players could grow attached to each action by learning them gradually.

In the preview build, we saw some martial arts techniques labeled with the term “Perfect,” which seemed to offer greater benefits when executed with more precise timing compared to standard techniques. Would you say that mastering these kinds of advanced skills is the key to mastering Ninja Gaiden 4 overall?

This game offers players an exceptionally wide variety of actions to choose from. The idea is for each player to discover which style suits them best from among this vast selection and then be free to refine and master it in their own way. That’s the kind of design philosophy that’s at the heart of Ninja Gaiden 4.

Take the “Perfect” Combat Skills, for example. These refer to moves that require precise timing, such as well-timed guards or counters. This kind of playstyle tests your ability to improvise during battle, as well as your ability to read and memorize enemy patterns. However, when multiple enemies appear on screen at once, their movements start to interfere with each other, which introduces unpredictability into their behavior. In those situations, improvisation becomes even more important.

On the other hand, some players may prefer an aggressive combo-heavy style, or a style that focuses on landing powerful, heavy blows using the Bloodraven form. For players who find appeal in those kinds of approaches, there are other valid routes toward mastering the game.

Ultimately, the fact that players can freely discover their own methods and strategies for tackling the game is one of the most enjoyable and compelling aspects of Ninja Gaiden 4.

In the preview build, Ryu Hayabusa was playable, and in addition to his previously known extraordinary powers, the players were able to also experience combat in his new “Gleam Form”. Could you tell us more about Ryu’s abilities in Ninja Gaiden 4?

In Ninja Gaiden 4, the “True Dragon Gleam”, which has existed from the first Ninja Gaiden and also an Ultimate Technique in Ninja Gaiden 2, is heavily featured. The Gleam Form in this game is inspired by the feeling of activating that Ultimate Technique, and you can enjoy watching Ryu and his afterimages cut down and massacre enemies from all directions, depending on the various commands, situations, and ranges. The Gleam Form was created while imagining, “What kind of technique could Ryu Hayabusa, the Super Ninja who has mastered the True Dragon Sword, use?”

As a result, the Gleam Form was created as a symbol of Ryu’s prowess.

To put it simply, the Gleam Form is when Ryu unleashes the power of the True Dragon Sword, making him incredibly strong. When you play him in this game, it will truly give you the impression where you might think, “Wow, Ryu’s movements are truly insane!” It’s a one-of-a-kind power that lets players experience Ryu Hayabusa at his peak, as the indomitable Super Ninja.

The Gleam Form can be switched freely with just one button, like Yakumo’s use of the Bloodraven Form. While in this state, you can unleash a variety of incredibly powerful techniques. As the form itself is based on the True Dragon Gleam, we’ve made sure to also include techniques that feel just like it. When playing, be sure to try and replicate it yourself.

In this preview build, since both Yakumo and Ryu Hayabusa could be played on the same stage, does this mean that in Ninja Gaiden 4, players will be able to play through each chapter using both characters?

For each chapter, the story determines who is in which world and what they are doing, so for the most part, the characters will be fixed as you progress. In some chapters, you’ll play as Yakumo, and in others, you’ll play as Ryu, with each character assigned to specific parts of the story.

However, in the Chapter Challenge mode, where you can replay chapters, both Yakumo and Ryu are available to play on any stage. You can try playing stages that were originally meant for Ryu with Yakumo, vice versa. This mode offers a lot of freedom for players who want to replay the game, and I’m really excited to see how it will expand the variety of playstyles. I hope players will find their own unique ways to enjoy the game.

NINJA GAIDEN 4 Preorder Deluxe Edition

Xbox Game Studios

☆☆☆☆☆
4

★★★★★

$89.99

Pre-order

Pre-order now to receive the Dark Dragon Descendant Yakumo Skin at launch

The definitive ninja hack & slash franchise returns with NINJA GAIDEN 4! Embark on a cutting-edge adventure where legacy meets innovation in this high-octane blend of style and no-holds-barred combat.

Return of the Legend: Experience a return to the intense, high-speed combat that established NINJA GAIDEN as a premier action game series. Prepare for a legacy reborn with captivating style for a new generation of players.

Epic Hack and Slash Combat, Evolved: NINJA GAIDEN 4 fuses Team NINJA’s tempered combat philosophy with the stylish, dynamic action gameplay of PlatinumGames. Engage in visually stunning combat that rewards precision and strategy. Use Bloodbind Ninjutsu to transform your weapons and unleash devastation upon your enemies, alongside legacy techniques like the Izuna Drop and Flying Swallow. The legendary Ryu Hayabusa also returns with a revamped yet familiar set of tools to master. With a customizable player experience, NINJA GAIDEN 4 will push action game veterans to their limits while allowing newcomers to enjoy a heart-pounding adventure full of twists and turns.

An Ancient Enemy Returns: An endless rain of miasma hangs over a near-future Tokyo in the wake of an ancient enemy’s resurrection. The fate of the city lies in the hands of young ninja prodigy, Yakumo. Fighting his way through cybernetic ninja soldiers and otherworldly creatures, Yakumo must reconcile a destiny he shares with the legendary Ryu Hayabusa himself and free Tokyo from the ancient curse that brought the city to its knees.

Experience a return to the intense, high-octane action of NINJA GAIDEN with the Deluxe Edition.

Includes:
• Base Game
• Future Gameplay Content*
• Traditional Dark Blue and Legendary Black Falcon Ryu Skins
• Blade of the Archfiend Ryu Weapon Skin
• Divine Chimera and Raven Master Yakumo Skins
• Divine Chimera Yakumo Weapon Set
• 50,000 Bonus NinjaCoin
• Additional In-Game Items

NINJA GAIDEN 4 Preorder Standard Edition

Xbox Game Studios

☆☆☆☆☆
4

★★★★★

$69.99

Pre-order

Pre-order now to receive the Dark Dragon Descendant Yakumo Skin at launch

The definitive ninja hack & slash franchise returns with NINJA GAIDEN 4! Embark on a cutting-edge adventure where legacy meets innovation in this high-octane blend of style and no-holds-barred combat.

Return of the Legend: Experience a return to the intense, high-speed combat that established NINJA GAIDEN as a premier action game series. Prepare for a legacy reborn with captivating style for a new generation of players.

Epic Hack and Slash Combat, Evolved: NINJA GAIDEN 4 fuses Team NINJA’s tempered combat philosophy with the stylish, dynamic action gameplay of PlatinumGames. Engage in visually stunning combat that rewards precision and strategy. Use Bloodbind Ninjutsu to transform your weapons and unleash devastation upon your enemies, alongside legacy techniques like the Izuna Drop and Flying Swallow. The legendary Ryu Hayabusa also returns with a revamped yet familiar set of tools to master. With a customizable player experience, NINJA GAIDEN 4 will push action game veterans to their limits while allowing newcomers to enjoy a heart-pounding adventure full of twists and turns.

An Ancient Enemy Returns: An endless rain of miasma hangs over a near-future Tokyo in the wake of an ancient enemy’s resurrection. The fate of the city lies in the hands of young ninja prodigy, Yakumo. Fighting his way through cybernetic ninja soldiers and otherworldly creatures, Yakumo must reconcile a destiny he shares with the legendary Ryu Hayabusa himself and free Tokyo from the ancient curse that brought the city to its knees.

Game Pass Ultimate members can live every stadium-shaking moment for up to 10 hours in EA Sports Madden NFL 26. If they decide to buy, their progress carries over to the full game, so they can get ready for the next snap.

Members can save 10% off* EA digital purchases including the full version of the game and Madden Points. Plus, score a Welcome Pack from Aug 7–Sept 11 and recurring Ultimate Team Packs to build your dream football team with NFL Legends and current stars.

Backed by years of real NFL data that delivers explosive gameplay in every moment, Madden NFL 26 is Built From Sundays.

What’s New in Madden NFL 26?

Play Like the Pros

Star NFL quarterbacks move, look, and feel more like the superstars they are. Josh Allen’s rocket arm, Kyler Murray’s elusive scrambles, and Jayden Daniels’ lightning-fast decisions are all captured with unprecedented accuracy. Every throw, rollout, and read now reflects years of real NFL data.

Real NFL Coaching

Madden NFL 26 captures authentic coaching philosophies straight from the NFL sidelines. Play-calling now mirrors real-world tendencies, from Dan Campbell’s aggressive fourth-down decisions to Kevin O’Connell’s innovative offensive schemes. The game delivers dynamic suggestions based on your coach’s style, while new counters help shut down opponents who rely on repetitive tactics. Every matchup becomes a battle of wits, just like on Sundays.

Feel NFL Gameday

From the deafening Skol chants in Minnesota to Baltimore’s electric light show, get hyped with real NFL team traditions. Feel the energy of authentic team run-outs, dynamic weather that affects gameplay, and custom broadcast packages that make each matchup unique. This isn’t just football— it’s your front row seat to NFL Sundays .The EA Sports Madden NFL 26 10-hour EA Play trial is available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox PC and Xbox Cloud.

Membership for EA Play is included with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions at no extra cost.

Whether you’re scoring an unbelievable hat-trick in the EA Sports FC franchise, showing no mercy on suburban battlegrounds in the Battlefield series or timing a perfect hit to dominate the gridiron in the Madden NFL franchise, you can feel the thrill with EA for just $5.99 a month. Membership unlocks unlimited access to a collection of top titles, trials of select new games, in-game member rewards and more. Members also save 10% off EA digital purchases—including game downloads, points packs, and DLC.

For more details on all the EA Play member benefits this month, visit: EA Play Member Benefits

_{Conditions, limitations and exclusions apply. See EA Play Terms for details.}

EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26

Electronic Arts

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26 leverages a new AI-powered machine learning system trained on thousands of plays from nearly a decade of real NFL data to deliver more explosive gameplay—with new player-specific traits, authentic playstyles, and adaptive counters that match on-field tendencies and strategies of NFL quarterbacks and coaches.

From the Skol chant in Minnesota to the light show in Baltimore, immerse yourself in new presentation across the NFL including game-impacting weather, team traditions, and dynamic halftime shows with Scott Hanson.

Madden NFL 26. Real NFL Data, Unreal NFL Moments.

This game includes optional in-game purchases of virtual currency that can be used to acquire virtual in-game items, including a random selection of virtual in-game items.

Conditions & restrictions apply. See www.ea.com/legal for details.

We’re just days away from The First Descendant Breakthrough update, launching August 7 – and I want to thank all of you who’ve been eagerly awaiting this major content drop. Your continued support means the world to us.

Today, I’m excited to share an overview of the new season’s key features with our Xbox community. It’s a pleasure to connect with you directly and give you a closer look at what’s coming.

The Story of Breakthrough

In Breakthrough, the main villain, Karel, Commander of the Vulgus, finally steps into the spotlight. With the activation of “Iron Heart,” chaos spreads across the entirety of Ingris, and dimensional anomalies are even detected at Axion Plains near Albion. While Descendants investigate these strange phenomena, grotesque Legion of Breach and Mutants emerge, and to make matters worse, a Dimensional Wall opens—summoning Colossus. Following Karel’s invasion, humanity faces a crisis greater than ever before. But why does Karel refuse to halt his invasion? What is he trying to achieve through the Iron Heart? His hidden motives will finally be revealed in Breakthrough.

Massive Field, Axion Plains

Axion Plains is a massive field that will serve as a key feature in Breakthrough. True to its vast scale, it is home to a variety of new monsters whose formidable attacks will make your combat experience even more thrilling.

Among Axion Plains’ most distinctive threats is the Legion of Breach—monsters that adapt to the elements used against them. This adaptive ability stems from their origin: the Breach Swarm Sac, which analyzes the elemental traits of Descendants and adjusts newly spawned Breach Creatures accordingly. This evolving threat can be reset by destroying Breach Swarm Sac or Swarm Tunnels, each affecting enemy adaptations differently. Alongside them, Assault Ships rain down enemies onto the battlefield and this can only be destroyed with specific skills or pickup weapons, adding a new layer of strategy and urgency to each encounter.

New Ride, Hover Bike

Hover Bike was created to help players travel quickly and smoothly across the wide Axion Fields, making exploration faster and more fun. We focused on making the riding experience feel natural, so you can get on and off while moving and even link it smoothly with actions like using the grappling hook. There are three types to choose from—Basic, Speed, and Balance—each upgradeable for better performance. You can also customize your Hover Bikes with different skins and, in the future, special attachments, so your ride can match your own style.

8 Player Co-op Colossus Raid, Wall Crasher

One of the most spectacular features in the Axion Plains is the colossus Wall Crasher. This massive enemy is summoned at set intervals by a central Colossus Guided Device located in the heart of the battlefield. When the time comes, warning signs spread across the field and then, the Wall Crasher appears.

Wall Crasher encounters take place in a special eight-player instance, offering a large-scale co-op battle. Towering over the battlefield, the Wall Crasher unleashes massive area attacks that demand constant movement and awareness. Despite its slow but heavy movements, players can read its patterns and react accordingly. Defensive Descendants like Ajax are especially helpful, using their skills to block key attacks and give teammates the space they need to focus on dealing damage.

New Descendant, Nell

The Breakthrough update also introduces a brand-new Descendant: Nell. Once known as the executive officer who stood by Alpha’s side in Albion Headquarters, Nell has now awakened as a full-fledged Descendant, with a completely new look and combat abilities. Living up to the excitement of players who have long awaited her playable debut, Nell features a bold and dynamic combat style that feels powerful and engaging.

Nell now fights with telekinetic powers, allowing her to control the battlefield with both style and precision. Her combat style feels straight out of a sci-fi action movie—powerful and sharp!

The First Descendant X NieR:Automata Crossover

We’re thrilled to announce our first-ever crossover, and it couldn’t be with a more perfect partner: NieR:Automata. Iconic characters 2B and A2 arrive as stunning playable skins in The First Descendant—along with beloved elements like Pod, Virtuous Contract, and Type-4O Sword as back attachments. To top it off, two special social emotes are included to bring the full NieR:Automata experience to life. As fans ourselves, we can’t wait for you to jump in, gear up, and experience this unique crossover in the world of The First Descendant.

We hope this article sparks even more excitement and interest among new and returning Descendants. See you on the battlefield on August 7!

The First Descendant

NEXON

☆☆☆☆☆
907

★★★★★

Get it now

(As of June 19 2025, The First Descendant is no longer supported on Xbox One. An Xbox Series X|S is required to play this game and add-on content.)

The First Descendant is a next-generation third-person co-op action RPG looter shooter featuring high-quality graphics created in Unreal Engine 5.

Players become a Descendant whose mission is to combat alien invaders – The Vulgus who crossed dimensions over 100 years ago and brought with them the devastating Colossi and destruction – for the survival of humanity and to protect Albion and the continent of Ingris. Players will encounter spectacular stories of forces fighting over the Iron Heart as they grow stronger through various missions and raids.

Encounter features that make The First Descendant’s gameplay unique: a variety of characters with unique concepts and combat styles, massive boss battles with up to four player co-op, free movement and coordinated action with grappling hooks, a variety of weapons and compelling customization options.

1985 was the height of the British home computer scene; an era of games delivered on cassette tapes by young coders producing innovative titles straight out of their bedrooms. Among the most notable of these developers were Ultimate, already responsible for ground-breaking titles like Jetpac and Knight Lore – but the studio’s founders weren’t about to rest on their laurels. 

This was the year that Ultimate co-creators Tim and Chris Stamper would form Rare – an ambitious new studio intended to focus on dedicated video game consoles, which had already established themselves in Japan and were about to take the rest of the world by storm.  

2025 marks the 40th ‘Ruby’ Anniversary of that bold endeavour, and Rare’s inviting everyone to join the celebration of this impressive milestone, offering free gifts, discounts and plenty of swag to claim in their shared-world pirate adventure, Sea of Thieves. 

Pictures, Plaques and Pressings 

Celebrations begin today, August 4, the official anniversary date, with the unveiling of a heritage plaque at the site of Ultimate’s first home in Ashby-de-la-Zouch. For those not within striking distance of the English Midlands, however, there are new gamerpics and an Xbox dynamic background (above) starring a who’s-who of Rare characters old and new. 

Fangamer are marking the occasion with a range of retro Rare merchandise, including a varsity hoodie, wireframe logo T-shirt and commemorative ruby pin. There’s also a limited edition wireless controller being unveiled courtesy of 8bitdo, shining in the studio’s signature colours and officially licenced by Xbox and Rare.  

Meanwhile, iam8bit will be opening pre-orders for their freshly-announced Rare 40th Anniversary vinyl collection later this week, while Evercade enthusiasts can look forward to a new cartridge collection of twelve vintage Rare titles spanning home computer, console and arcade. 

A huge heritage sale in Sea of Thieves’ Pirate Emporium begins on August 6, offering discounts on items inspired by classic Rare games, and beginning tomorrow, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be able to claim an exclusive Rare Ruby Emote as a Perk for use in-game.  

Ruby Rewards on the High Seas 

The party really starts in Sea of Thieves when its latest Season, Smugglers’ Tide, arrives on August 14, bringing even more anniversary antics in its wake. For a limited time, select Ancient Coin Packs acquired by spending Microsoft Rewards points will come bundled with a Rare Ruby Hat, which can also be earned via the Microsoft Rewards app. 

A 40th Anniversary bundle of cosmetics will be arriving on storefronts at the same time, while pirates logging into the game before the month is out will receive the Rare Ruby Eyepatch. An array of ruby-themed items will be arriving in the Outpost shops, while the Pirate Emporium plays host to the limited-time Ruby Reaper’s Mark sails and offers a Seasonal Plunder Pass, featuring Rare Regalia items with a similarly scarlet hue. 

Community Spirit 

Rounding out August with one last anniversary hoorah are Twitch Drops and Sea of Thieves’ Season 17 Community Weekend, which begins on August 30. Taking part will award players with the Community Weekend flag and Paper Cutout Emote, there’s a Ruby Legend Figurehead to earn from a global community goal, and there’ll be group activities like photo walls and Pop-Up Plunder to enjoy, too. 

There’s all this and more besides, including an updated Rare All-Stars EP hitting Spotify on August 15, so be sure to keep tabs on Rare’s social channels for the latest and be sure not to miss out — you only turn 40 once! 

Today at the annual THQ Nordic Digital Showcase Event, we gave gamers fresh looks at gameplay for several upcoming titles, including Reanimal, Tides of Tomorrow, The Eternal Life of Goldman, and much more. We also unveiled a new demo for Gothic 1 Remake, which Xbox players can jump into from today!

Let’s take a look at a recap of the event, including all of the major news and reveals making their way to Xbox.

SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide Pre-Order Live Today

The pre-order program is now live for SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide! Confirmed for release on Xbox Series X|S on November 18 of this year, this all-new adventure through Bikini Bottom allows players to play as both Patrick and SpongeBob to the song-stylings of the one and only David Hasselhoff. The ability to switch from SpongeBob to Patrick and back again has been a long-time request from SpongeBob fans.

Pre-order today to receive the Natural Costume Pack DLC as a bonus. Check out the Ghostly Digital Edition and the Ultimate Edition for access to even more rewards, including the Tidal Season Pass, which includes two DLCs with new challenge levels and two themed costume packs (also available as a separate purchase).

Gothic Remake Demo Available Today

Starting today, gamers everywhere can return to the Valley of the Mines in the Gothic Remake demo. Dive into the Nyras Prologue to experience the thrill of entering the Colony for the very first time—without encountering any spoilers. Please note, this demo will not be included in the final game. Considered *the* pioneer RPG, this highly-anticipated remake is built for today’s most discerning RPG enthusiasts, including thoughtful expansions architected with Gothic veterans in mind. THQ Nordic will also release the Gothic Classics, 1, 2 and 3, for Xbox Series X|S in 2026.

New Eternal Life of Goldman Trailer Reveal

This all-new gameplay trailer reveals at least one life shattered by our protagonist Goldman. The vibrant yet dark platformer demands precision while encouraging exploration and a sense of discovery throughout the game world. Complex scenes and rich characters create The Eternal Life of Goldman’s layered story that is perfectly balanced with platform-style play.

First Look at Reanimal Gameplay

We showed an all-new reveal from Reanimal – the highly anticipated horror adventure from the creators of Little Nightmares I & II. The showcase gameplay trailer features a first look at new gameplay environments and characters, including new monsters and friends of the orphaned siblings. Their relentless journey to survive a hellish gamescape features a rich narrative, as well as online and couch co-op multiplayer.

New Tides of Tomorrow Gameplay Trailer

Hear directly from Tides of Tomorrow developer Digixart, the team behind Route 96, in a trailer that highlights the all-new asynchronous gameplay feature. Tides of Tomorrow combines rich story-telling and collaborative gameplay for a first-of-its-kind experience. The colorful, post-apocalyptic universe is in the player’s hands as decision-making will determine the fate of the game world and all its inhabitants. 

Wreckfest 2 Arriving in 2026

The high-octane, no-rules demolition derby and racing franchise is receiving a long-awaited sequel! Made famous for its realistic damage model and unique blend of arcade and simulation style, the Wreckfest franchise requires that every driver to drive hard or dive fast. Wreckfest 2 is racing to Xbox Series X|S in 2026.

Titan Quest II Coming in 2026

Titan Quest II expands upon the ARPG best known for combining hack-n-slash combat, loot-based progression, and deep character customization in a rich, mythological setting.  With a class-less character system, players can choose two masteries from a variety of options and freely combine them to create their own hero inspired by ancient mythology. Explore the realms of ancient Greece, visit places where no mortal has ever ventured, and face legendary creatures—and even gods themselves. Titan Quest II promises an adventure worthy of its own myth, and it’s heading to Xbox Series X|S in 2026.

New Wreckreation Gameplay Trailer

The creators of Burnout have combined arcade racing with a toolbox full of customization options in a giant open world! Wreckreation players can choose from 60 different vehicles and use the Game DJ to change in-game parameters like music, vehicles, weather, time of day, traffic, and game world. And the best part? Players can instantly switch to the live mix building mode in real-time, constructing their own highways—complete with crazy jumps, loops, and hundreds of objects placed anywhere in the game world. Ever wanted to race your car over a dinosaur’s head? Wreckreation has got you covered! The new gameplay trailer shows off in-game racing and stunt challenges that can be created and shared with friends. Wreckreation is coming to Xbox Series X|S later this year.

We look very forward to seeing Xbox players at Gamescom at the end of the month. We’ll be offering hands-on with many of our upcoming releases including Reanimal and, of course, SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide. Representatives from our development studios will be available for to share their personal insights on the games.