Steel Meets Shadow. NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound Physical Editions Strike September 12th

Launching September 12, 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound fuses the spirit of the franchise’s 8-bit roots with the precision of its modern 3D legacy. Developed by The Game Kitchen (creators of Blasphemous) and published by Dotemu, this side-scrolling revival of the legendary saga delivers an epic adventure that connects past and present.

The story begins when Ryu Hayabusa travels to America to honor his father’s final wishes. While he is away, the seal between worlds breaks, unleashing a demonic horde on his homeland. In Ryu’s absence, young ninja Kenji Mozu must rise to the occasion. Desperate and outmatched, he forms an uneasy alliance with the deadly Black Spider Clan. Along the way, his fate becomes entwined with Kumori, a lethal assassin whose role in the conflict grows more mysterious.

Ragebound introduces lightning-fast gameplay, deep combat mechanics, and striking pixel art. It also features a unique twist with its dual protagonists. Players will control both Kenji and Kumori, shifting between their distinct styles and uncovering their interconnected stories.

Two editions will be available at launch. The Standard Edition includes the full game, a pulse-pounding soundtrack, and a retro-themed booklet. The Special Edition builds on that with a suite of collectibles and display-worthy items for fans and collectors.

Pre-orders for both versions are open now through Silver Lining Direct and participating retailers across North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East.

What We Can Expect

• Dual Protagonists: Switch between Kenji Mozu and Kumori for unique gameplay dynamics and storylines.
• Modern Meets Retro: A seamless blend of 8-bit nostalgia and modern pixel-art combat design.
• Strategic Combat: Unleash Ninja Fusion attacks and master deep mechanics that reward precision and timing.
• Collector’s Delight: Two physical editions packed with extras, available globally with pre-orders open now.

Special Edition Features

• Standard edition contents – Game, Soundtrack and Retro Booklet
• Cloth map – frame it or study it like a true warrior.
• 4 metal pins – Bold, pixel-art-inspired designs you’ll want to show off (or guard like treasure).-
• Double-Sided Hero Medallion – A solid metal coin featuring both protagonists: feel the weight of the legend!
• Pixel Stage Standee – A badass backdrop to show off your ninja pride on any shelf.
• Double-Sided Poster – Wall-worthy art showdown!
• All encased in a premium collector’s box

My Thoughts

NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound immediately caught my eye with its crisp, razor-sharp visuals. Every frame feels like a tribute to both retro pixel art and modern animation. The action looks fluid and precise, and the platforming adds exciting variety. I especially loved the ability to cling to walls and launch off them for extra height, which brings a satisfying vertical element to the combat.

The pace also stood out. The player moves quickly, keeping the action fast and intense. And I have to say, the dramatic blood splashes with each clean strike adds a stylish flair that fits the tone perfectly. Everything about this game looks sharp, responsive, and cool. It delivers the kind of high-energy experience that feels worthy of the NINJA GAIDEN name.

Check out the trailer below!