Straight out of the starting blocks at The Game Awards 2024, retro fans received an early Christmas surprise with the announcement trailer for Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound. Tecmo Koei, the developer and publisher behind the Ninja Gaiden franchise, outsourced the development of this nostalgic project to a prominent studio-publisher combo.
Dotemu has repeatedly delivered genre-defining reinterpretations of classic franchises, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge and Streets of Rage 4. Joining them is Spanish developer The Game Kitchen, known for the critically acclaimed but brutal Metroidvania Blasphemous and its sequel, released last year.
Honestly, Dotemu couldn’t have landed a better partner for this project with The Gaming Kitching. Based on the Blasphemous games, overlap between the two franchises are there, but our believe in the capabilities in converting core gameplay fundamentals and transferring them into engaging gameplay is in great hands with The Game Kitchen. In addition to gameplay the presentation.
About the game itself:
“In Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a new chapter unfolds with the introduction of Kenji Mozu, a young ninja of the Hayabusa clan. Set in Hayabusa Village shortly after Ryu Hayabusa departs for America to avenge his father’s death—a key event from the original NES title—the story explores the aftermath of a rift opening between the human and demon worlds. This event plunges Hayabusa Village into chaos, prompting Kenji to take up arms and defend his home from a mounting demonic invasion.
The game revisits the franchise’s hallmark fast-paced, side-scrolling combat while aiming to be accessible to new players. At the same time, it retains the challenging mechanics and technical intricacy long-time fans expect. Players will navigate hazardous environments, contend with demonic adversaries, and overcome obstacles such as traps, spike pits, and treacherous chasms.
Kenji’s journey is punctuated by battles against imposing, boss-level enemies, with a progression system that allows for ability upgrades and exploration of hidden areas. Optional mission objectives and collectibles further expand the gameplay, blending traditional platforming with modernized elements to appeal to a diverse audience.”
The visual design embraces pixel art to pay homage to the series’ roots while incorporating detailed environments and enemy designs. A newly composed soundtrack, with contributions from guest composers, accompanies the action, aiming to enhance the overall atmosphere.
