If you tuned into the 2025 Xbox Developer Direct, you know we were treated to a buffet of gaming greatness, with enough jaw-dropping reveals and sneak peeks to make our thumbs twitch in anticipation. Missed it? Fear not. I’ve got you covered with this snazzy recap.
We took a digital dive into the studios behind some epic titles: DOOM: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and the world premiere of NINJA GAIDEN 4. Our tour wasn’t just a sightseeing trip—we got up close and personal with developers spilling the beans on new gameplay footage and game mechanics. Oh, and did I mention the drop-the-mic moment? A remastered classic—NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black—is available starting TODAY.
While a Ninja Gaiden 2 remaster is definitely something a lot of people are looking forward to, I feel the Ninja Gaiden 4 annoucement needs a bit more follow up, so here we are:
Set in a near-future Tokyo, NINJA GAIDEN 4 introduces us to Yakumo, a young ninja from the Raven clan. Yakumo’s journey intertwines with that of the legendary Ryu Hayabusa, leading to epic confrontations and revelations. The game explores themes of legacy, destiny, and the struggle against ancient evils. Expect the signature fast-paced, hack-and-slash combat that NINJA GAIDEN is known for. New features include Bloodbind Ninjutsu, which allows players to transform their weapons and unleash devastating attacks. Classic techniques like the Flying Swallow and Izuna Drop make a return, ensuring both nostalgia and fresh challenges.
The game boasts stunning graphics and an expansive world, with a dark, atmospheric setting that captures the essence of the NINJA GAIDEN universe.
This project marks a collaboration between Team NINJA and PlatinumGames, combining their expertise to create an unforgettable action experience. The game will feature dual protagonists, allowing players to experience the story from both Yakumo’s and Ryu’s perspectives. This dynamic adds depth to the narrative and offers varied gameplay styles.
And here’s the cherry on top: All these games support Xbox Play Anywhere. That means when you buy ’em on Xbox or Windows, you get to play them on both platforms at no extra cost. Your game progress and achievements will follow you wherever you go. Xbox Cloud Gaming, anyone?
Getting back to DOOM: The Dark Ages, a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, DOOM: The Dark Ages takes us back to the origins of the Doom Slayer. The game is set in a dark fantasy/sci-fi world, blending medieval elements with DOOM’s signature hellish twist. The narrative focuses on the Slayer’s journey to turn the tide of a war against demonic forces.
The combat in DOOM: The Dark Ages is designed to be more grounded and intense. The Slayer wields heavy, close-range weapons and a shield that blocks and counters attacks. New melee weapons include a spiked flail, an electric gauntlet, and a spiked mace, each with unique combos and upgrade options. The game also introduces a new melee skill tree, allowing players to customize their combat style. The game features an expansive open-world medieval setting, filled with dark and sinister realms. Players can explore sprawling battlefields, complete tasks, and take on mini-bosses in any order they choose. The world is designed to be rich in lore and detail, offering a deep and immersive experience.
Mechs and Dragons: One of the standout features of DOOM: The Dark Ages is the inclusion of mechs and dragons. Players can pilot a gigantic mech called the Atlan, which allows them to take on colossal enemies. Additionally, there are sections where players can ride a fire-breathing dragon, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay.
Unlike previous DOOM games, DOOM: The Dark Ages is single-player only. This decision allows id Software to focus entirely on the campaign, creating the largest and most epic campaign to date. The game includes features like piloting mechs and dragons, which were not possible in previous games due to the multiplayer component.
DOOM: The Dark Ages – Launching May 15, 2025 Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam, PlayStation 5, and play it day one with Game Pass.
Other Highlights
South of Midnight – Launching April 8, 2025 Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam, cloud, and play it day one with Game Pass*
Compulsion Games took us behind the curtain of South of Midnight, releasing on April 8, 2025. Dive into the Southern Gothic folklore as Hazel, a Weaver discovering her powers in a magical world. Dark, enchanting, and utterly mesmerizing.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – Launching April 24, 2025 Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, and play it day one with Game Pass* (see developer website for other platforms)
Sandfall Interactive’s first game, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, launches on April 24. A turn-based RPG set in a fantasy 19th Century France with innovative mechanics and gorgeous art. Get ready to stop the Paintress from unleashing chaos.
NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black – Available Today! Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, and play it day one with Game Pass*
The legendary NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black returns, remastered and ready to rock your gaming world. Relive the high-speed ninja action and iconic battles of Ryu Hayabusa. Available now!
Our game showcase doesn’t stop here. Next on the horizon is Avowed, Obsidian Entertainment’s fantasy RPG, launching on February 18, 2025. Stay tuned to Xbox Wire and Xbox social channels for all the latest updates. There’s never been a better time to be an Xbox player, unless you’re waiting on the big Xbox mobile annoucement teased by Phil Spencer every few months.
