Ninja Gaiden 4 has made a triumphant return to modern hardware, and early technical analyses confirm that the game delivers a remarkably consistent experience across all major platforms. Developed collaboratively by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames and published by Xbox Game Studios, this new installment in the iconic action series demonstrates a strong technical foundation, showcasing thoughtful performance balance between PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
The game offers three distinct viewing modes on both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, while the PlayStation 5 Pro includes an additional “Pro Mode.” This fourth option combines the visual quality of the standard console’s quality mode with the smoother framerate of the performance mode, offering a best-of-both-worlds approach. Players on PS5 and Xbox Series X can choose between Quality Mode, Performance Mode, and 120 FPS Mode, depending on whether they prefer enhanced visuals or higher framerate responsiveness.
According to the analysis, the Quality Mode on PS5 and Xbox Series X runs with settings equivalent to the high preset on PC, featuring superior texture resolution, more detailed shadows, and improved post-processing effects. Meanwhile, the Performance Mode adjusts these parameters to medium-equivalent settings to achieve a more stable 60 frames per second. The 120 FPS Mode takes things further by scaling visuals down to low-quality settings, prioritizing framerate over graphical fidelity.
The PlayStation 5 Pro edition appears to deliver the most balanced experience of all versions. Its Pro Mode combines the high-detail assets of the Quality Mode with the smoothness of Performance Mode, achieving a stable framerate without sacrificing image clarity. However, the 120 FPS Mode on PS5 Pro, while more stable than on the standard model, does not deliver any resolution improvements.
Across all versions, Ninja Gaiden 4 maintains the technical consistency expected from PlatinumGames’ history of highly optimized releases. Frame pacing remains steady, and input latency is minimal even in demanding combat sequences filled with fast, acrobatic movement and particle-heavy visual effects. The Xbox Series X performs nearly identically to the PlayStation 5, while the Series S version scales back certain graphical elements, such as draw distance and reflection quality, yet still manages to uphold a stable framerate.
On PC, the optimization is generally solid, though the implementation of DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) is described as modest. Players are unable to adjust the DLSS quality mode from the in-game menu, and there is currently no option for frame generation, which slightly limits flexibility for users with high-refresh-rate displays. Even so, the PC version supports a wide range of configurations, allowing players to tailor settings for maximum performance or fidelity depending on their hardware capabilities.
The overall impression is that Ninja Gaiden 4 offers an exceptional technical showing across all platforms, with only minor shortcomings on the PC version’s DLSS functionality. The game’s scalability ensures that both console and PC players enjoy a smooth, high-quality experience that honors the series’ legacy of precision-based, high-speed combat.
Co-developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the highly anticipated revival of the legendary action franchise. The story introduces Yakumo, a skilled prodigy from the Raven Clan, who fights alongside the returning hero Ryu Hayabusa in a near-future Tokyo plagued by an ancient curse. True to its heritage, the game delivers relentless, high-velocity combat featuring elaborate weapon combos, cinematic violence, and challenging enemy encounters.
Released on October 21, 2025, Ninja Gaiden 4 is available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC through both Steam and the Microsoft Store. Xbox Game Pass subscribers can access the title at launch, marking yet another strong addition to the service’s growing library of premier action experiences.
