Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound Delivers a Retro Revival with Fluid Combat and High Replayability

The legendary Ninja Gaiden series makes its return with Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a 2D side-scrolling action game released on July 31, 2025, for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Developed by The Game Kitchen, the studio behind Blasphemous, and published by Dotemu, the new entry blends the punishing precision of its NES roots with modern refinements in combat, visuals, and replayability.

Players step into the role of Kenji Mozu, a young ninja tasked with defending Hayabusa Village while Ryu Hayabusa is away. When a demonic invasion strikes, Kenji’s fate becomes bound to his rival Kumori, granting access to her kunai attacks and special traversal abilities. This dual-character mechanic adds variety to the fast-paced sword combat and heightens the strategic depth of encounters.

At its core, Ragebound emphasizes momentum. Kenji’s blade flows through combo-driven combat, while mechanics like wall-climbing, aerial chaining, and talisman power-ups encourage aggressive, skillful play. Tight controls and impactful hitstops make every strike satisfying, while the richly detailed pixel art and energetic soundtrack capture a retro spirit with modern polish.

Critics praise the game for its fluid action, polished presentation, and strong replay value, though some shortcomings hold it back from perfection. Enemy hitboxes occasionally feel unforgiving, and the story concludes abruptly without the dramatic payoff players might expect. The main campaign lasts around 6–8 hours, but completing bonus stages, uncovering secrets, and tackling the unlockable hard mode can stretch playtime closer to 14 hours.

Despite these flaws, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound has been hailed as one of the most refined action-platformers of the year. It successfully honors the series’ punishing legacy while welcoming newcomers with sharp design, exhilarating combat, and enough challenge to keep fans returning long after the credits roll.