Details regarding the review embargo for Xbox Game Studios, Team Ninja, and PlatinumGames’ upcoming action-adventure game, Ninja Gaiden 4, have been revealed.
Fans of the long-running Ninja Gaiden series will soon be able to find out what critics have to say about the first new mainline entry since Ninja Gaiden 3 was released in 2012. The game takes place after the events of the prior entry in a near-future Tokyo that has been plunged into chaos by the return of the Dark Dragon.
What Is the Review Embargo Date for Ninja Gaiden 4?
The official Twitter/X Metacritic account has reported that the review embargo for Ninja Gaiden 4 is expected to be lifted at the beginning of next week, which would be on October 20, 2025, a day before the official release date. The timing is likely at around 7 AM PDT / 10 AM EDT / 3 PM BST / 4 PM CEST.
Additionally, the pre-load for Ninja Gaiden 4 is expected to go live on the PlayStation Store on October 19, 2025, for those who pre-ordered a digital copy.of the game. It will come with the latest update i.e. version 01.001.000, pre-installed. Meanwhile, those who purchased a physical copy of the game will need to download the day one update. The file size of the PS5 version of Ninja Gaiden 4 comes in at 23.551 GB.
In related news, Ninja Gaiden 4 received a content rating of M18 back in June, with detailed insights into the mature themes and elements that players can expect. According to the rating summary, the game features brutal and highly stylized combat sequences that exhibit strong violence and explicit gore. Players will use an array of deadly weapons, such as katanas, warhammers, and claws, to dismember, decapitate, and pulverize enemies. The graphic nature of combat is underscored by abundant blood effects and body parts being scattered across environments. In a distinctive visual touch, bloodstains accumulate on Yakumo’s character model as fights progress, while dramatic slow-motion closeups further emphasize the intensity of certain attacks.
