Team Ninja’s Fumiko Yasuda and Kohei Shibata on Nioh 3 being a Soulslike, historical eras, Ninja Gaiden, & more [Exclusive]

The Nioh franchise has always been known for its challenging gameplay, intricate storytelling, and historical accuracy. With the upcoming release of Nioh 3, fans are eagerly anticipating another thrilling adventure set in ancient Japan. I had the opportunity to speak with Fumiko Yasuda and Kohei Shibata, two of the developers behind the game, to gain insight into what players can expect from this highly anticipated title.

One of the key changes in Nioh 3 is the shift towards an open-world mission structure. In past games, players were required to replay story missions in order to practice bosses and improve their skills. However, with the new open-world format, players now have more flexibility in how they approach challenges. If a player gets stuck at a certain point, they can choose to take on side missions or strengthen their character before returning to face the boss. This not only enhances replayability but also allows players to explore different paths and strategies in the game.

Additionally, Nioh 3 will feature key missions and a Crucible element that allows players to revisit and replay challenges they have already completed. This ensures that the game maintains a balance between providing new content and allowing players to enjoy the replayability element that has been a hallmark of the series.

In terms of storytelling, Nioh 3 will cover a wide range of historical eras, including the Sengoku Jidai and Bakumatsu periods. The decision to explore different eras was driven by a desire to showcase the evolution of the Samurai and the role of the Shogun in Japanese history. By delving into the 12th-century origins of the Shogunate, the tumultuous Sengoku era, and the more modern Bakumatsu period, the game aims to provide a comprehensive look at the historical context in which these events unfolded.

The Sengoku Jidai era, known for its chaos and legendary battles, will be a focal point in Nioh 3, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the Samurai during this tumultuous period. By incorporating elements from different historical eras, the game aims to create a rich and immersive experience that will captivate players and transport them back in time to feudal Japan.

Overall, Nioh 3 promises to be an exciting addition to the franchise, offering a blend of challenging gameplay, compelling storytelling, and historical accuracy. With a focus on replayability, diverse missions, and a deep dive into Japan’s rich history, the game is sure to delight both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Stay tuned for more updates on Nioh 3 as it approaches its highly anticipated release date. Can you provide any details on the new gameplay features and mechanics that players can expect in Nioh 3?

Fumiko Yasuda: We are working on implementing new features and mechanics that will enhance the gameplay experience for players in Nioh 3. One of the key focuses is on improving the combat system to make it even more fluid and responsive. Players can expect new weapon types, special moves, and abilities that will allow for more strategic and dynamic battles.

Additionally, we are introducing a new skill tree system that will give players more customization options for their character. This will allow players to tailor their playstyle to suit their preferences and create unique builds. We are also working on implementing new enemy types and boss battles that will challenge players in new and exciting ways.

Overall, we are focused on creating a game that builds upon the success of the previous titles in the series while also introducing new elements that will keep players engaged and excited to explore the world of Nioh 3.

Can fans expect any crossover content or Easter eggs from these newer titles in Nioh 3?

Shibata: While we can’t go into specifics about crossover content or Easter eggs from our newer titles just yet, we always love to include little nods and references to our other games in our titles. So, fans can definitely keep an eye out for any surprises we may have hidden throughout Nioh 3.

That being said, we always strive to make each game unique and stand on its own, so any references or crossovers will be subtle and not take away from the core experience of Nioh 3. But we do love to reward our loyal fans with little connections and Easter eggs that tie our games together in the larger Team Ninja universe.

So, while we can’t confirm any specific crossover content at this time, I encourage fans to explore every nook and cranny of Nioh 3 to see if they can spot any familiar elements from our other titles!

Overall, we are incredibly excited for fans to experience Nioh 3 and all the new features and challenges it brings to the table. We have put a lot of thought and care into crafting a game that both honors the legacy of the series and pushes it forward into exciting new territory. We can’t wait for players to dive in and experience the world of Nioh 3 for themselves.

Team Ninja has announced the highly anticipated release of Nioh 3, set to launch on February 6, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and PC. The game promises to combine elements from various titles, including Wo Long, NINJA GAIDEN, and Ronin, to deliver a unique and immersive experience for players.

In a recent interview, Fumiko Yasuda, one of the key figures behind the development of Nioh 3, highlighted the influence of these titles on the upcoming game. From the deflect and 3D action of Wo Long to the ninja combat of NINJA GAIDEN and the open world of Ronin, Team Ninja has incorporated lessons learned from each of these games to enhance the gameplay in Nioh 3. The ninja and samurai battle action, as well as the dense open fields caught in the midst of warfare, have been redefined to fit the Nioh series seamlessly.

While discussing the future of the Ninja Gaiden franchise, Yasuda hinted at the possibility of another 2D Ninja Gaiden title from Team Ninja. Despite the release of Ninja Gaiden Ragebound, developed by The Game Kitchen, Yasuda acknowledged the interest among fans for a Team Ninja-developed 2D game. However, she mentioned that the current Team Ninja staff lacks the internal knowledge and expertise to create a 2D title, suggesting the need to collaborate with a partner for such a project.

The prospect of a new 2D Ninja Gaiden game from Team Ninja has sparked excitement among fans, who have fond memories of the classic NES titles. While Ninja Gaiden 4 was well-received, the idea of a modern 2D title from the original developers is intriguing.

As Nioh 3 gears up for its release, players can expect a thrilling blend of combat, storytelling, and gameplay elements inspired by iconic titles. With the legacy of Wo Long, NINJA GAIDEN, and Ronin shaping its development, Nioh 3 is poised to offer an unforgettable gaming experience for fans of the action-adventure genre.