Xbox finally bringing back a series we've waited years for

Microsoft has just revealed that a beloved Xbox series is finally about to make its return, more than 12 years after the last mainline entry in the franchise was released.

Last night, during the latest Xbox Developer Direct, Microsoft and Xbox Game Studios announced that Ninja Gaiden 4 is set to drop in autumn this year - much to the surprise of basically everyone on the internet.

The announcement came alongside a trailer, which looks absolutely stunning. Plus, it also revealed that the game is being co-developed by both Team Ninja and PlatinumGames.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the trailer is the introduction of the series' new protagonist, Yakumo. OG Ninja Gaiden fans shouldn’t fret, however, as the trailer also features a few gameplay segments with Ryu Hayabusa.

Take a look at the new trailer below.

The new entry also marks the first time we’ve seen a new mainline Ninja Gaiden title since 2012, following the release of Team Ninja’s Ninja Gaiden 3.

It’s believed that Ninja Gaiden 3 didn’t have the best sales numbers and underperformed globally (which could be a direct result of the poor critical reception the game received at launch) so that probably explains why it’s been such a long time since we’ve received a new entry.

Speaking of older Ninja Gaiden games though, Microsoft had another reveal up their sleeve for the Xbox Developer Direct.

As announced at the tail end of the presentation, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black (a remastered version of the OG Ninja Gaiden II) is now available on Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

Ninja Gaiden 4 will also be joining Ninja Gaiden 2 Black on PlayStation 5, Steam and Xbox Series X/S when it releases towards the end of the year.

Here’s hoping it brings back the ridiculously high difficulty barrier we all know and love. It really wouldn’t be a Ninja Gaiden game without it.