Team Ninja's 30th Anniversary: Big Plans on the Horizon

Team Ninja, the Koei Tecmo subsidiary famed for its action-packed franchises like Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, has hinted at significant projects to commemorate its 30th anniversary in 2025. Beyond these iconic series, the studio has also garnered success with its soulslike RPGs, including the Nioh series and collaborations with Square Enix like Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. The recent release of Rise of the Ronin further solidified their position in the action RPG genre.

In a recent interview, Team Ninja's Fumihiko Yasuda alluded to upcoming releases designed to befitting of this milestone anniversary. While details remain scarce, the statement strongly suggests significant announcements and releases tied to either the Ninja Gaiden or Dead or Alive franchises are likely. Yasuda stated, "In 2025, Team Ninja will celebrate its 30th anniversary, and we hope to announce and release titles fitting for the occasion."

Speculation and Anticipated Releases

The anticipation is already high, fueled by several factors. A new side-scrolling Ninja Gaiden title, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, was revealed at The Game Awards 2024, promising a blend of classic 8-bit gameplay and modern enhancements. This announcement satisfies a significant portion of fan anticipation for a return to the series' roots, following the divisive Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z in 2014.

The future of the Dead or Alive franchise remains a point of considerable interest. The absence of a mainline entry since 2019's Dead or Alive 6 leaves room for a significant anniversary release. Spin-offs have filled the gap, but many fans eagerly await a new core game in the series. Similarly, the possibility of a new entry in the popular Nioh series is another exciting prospect for fans.

2025 promises to be a significant year for Team Ninja, with the potential for multiple releases celebrating their three decades of game development. The studio's legacy and recent successes indicate a high likelihood of exciting announcements and releases that will resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.