Ninja Gaiden 4 reintroduces Ryu Hayabusa as a playable character, available in Story Mode from Chapter 14 through Chapter 18. Post-game completion, Ryu becomes fully unlocked for various modes.
Gameplay Details
Ryu wields the Dragon Sword and features a Gleam Form, an alternative to Yakumo's Bloodraven Form. Initially, players encounter Ryu in Story Mode starting at Chapter 14, extending to Chapter 18. Once the game is completed, Ryu can be selected for additional playthroughs.
- Ryu becomes playable mid-Story Mode: chapters 14 to 18.
 - Post-game, Ryu is available in Challenge Modes and Training Mode.
 - Use the Training Menu to switch to Ryu in Training Mode.
 
Challenge Modes and New Game Plus
Though Ryu is not available in a fresh Story Mode, players can select him in all Challenge Modes. These include Chapter Select, Purgatory Select, and Trials. Training Mode also supports Ryu as a character option.
For additional upgrades and collectibles, players can engage in New Game Plus to revisit and explore previous items and achievements with Ryu after completing Ninja Gaiden 4.