One of the most exciting surprises from Wednesday’s State of Play event (June 4) was the reveal of Nioh 3, the latest entry in Team Ninja and Koei Tecmo’s intense action-RPG series. The new game stays true to the franchise’s signature demon-slaying chaos but introduces some big changes—both in story and gameplay.
A New Protagonist With Greater Ambitions
This time, you’re not just another wandering samurai. In Nioh 3, players take on the role of a young warrior destined to become the next Shogun, a major shift from the previous games’ more grounded protagonists. While developers haven’t revealed much about the storyline, it’s clear the stakes are higher than ever, with a mysterious demonic threat standing between the hero and his rise to power.
Two Combat Styles, One Fierce Warrior
One of the standout gameplay changes is the introduction of dual combat styles: Samurai and Ninja. Players can switch between them on the fly:
- Samurai Style brings a familiar feel for series veterans, offering refined melee combat with new special techniques and even Parry mechanics.
- Ninja Style focuses on agility, faster dodges, aerial attacks, and stealthier tactics. Players can even use classic ninja tools—like temporary clones—to outsmart enemies.
This flexibility promises to offer a more dynamic and tactical approach, allowing players to tailor combat to their preferences or shift strategies in real time.
Bigger Worlds and Tighter Tension
Another major improvement is in the level design. Previous Nioh titles were often criticized for their linearity, but Nioh 3 is addressing that head-on. Expect broader, more explorable environments with multiple paths, hidden encounters, and off-track surprises—perfect for fans of Soulslike games where every corner could hide a deadly enemy or secret item.
Release Info and Demo Access
Nioh 3 is set to launch in early 2026 for PS5 and PC. PS5 players can try the game early—a demo is already available and will be playable until June 18.
With stylish visuals, brutal combat, and major gameplay upgrades, Nioh 3 looks poised to deliver one of the most ambitious entries in the series yet.
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