Ninja Gaiden 4 introduces a more arcade-like combat style, focusing on accessibility over previous titles' technical complexity. Set in a ruined Tokyo, players primarily control Yakumo, with Ryu Hayabusa in a supporting role.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The game features free-form combat with on-the-fly weapon switching. New mechanics include Bloodraven Form, weapon parries, and a Berserk gauge. While these changes allow for more creative, aggressive play, the depth of the combo system is less than past entries.
Character and Story Elements
Yakumo is the main character, joining efforts to stop the Dark Dragon. Ryu's role is minimal, with his playable sections resembling condensed versions of Yakumo's missions. The plot serves primarily as a backdrop for action, lacking depth.
Replayability and System Requirements
Ninja Gaiden 4 offers significant replayability with challenge modes and unlockable content. PC players need an AMD Ryzen 5 3400G or Intel i5-8400 CPU, AMD Radeon RX 590 or Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 GPU, and 16GB RAM minimum. The game runs smoothly at 60fps and 1440p, with robust PC support and features like Steam Achievements.
While Ninja Gaiden 4 provides an enjoyable action experience with substantial post-game content, fans of the series might miss the intricate combo systems of older games.
