"Nioh 3 Unveiled at Sony's June 2025 State of Play"

Team Ninja has officially unveiled Nioh 3 during Sony’s State of Play presentation, confirming an early 2026 release for the highly anticipated action RPG sequel. The debut trailer showcases a bold evolution of the series, introducing expansive open fields for deeper exploration and the dynamic ability to switch between two distinct combat styles: Samurai and Ninja. A playable demo is available now for players eager to dive into the next chapter.

The story follows a young warrior destined to become the next Shogun—a leader driven by a personal vendetta against the yokai. While more narrative details are under wraps, the gameplay innovations take center stage.

Samurai Style builds on the deep, strategic combat fans love from previous entries. New mechanics like Arts Proficiency boost the power of martial techniques, while Deflect adds a tense layer of precision blocking—perfect for turning the tide in close-quarters duels.

Ninja Style, on the other hand, emphasizes speed, evasion, and tactical strikes. Utilize Ninjitsu techniques tailored to each battlefield scenario. Create diversions with Mist, which leaves behind a clone after an attack, or narrowly escape danger with Evade. This style lets players strike from unexpected angles—especially from behind—delivering swift, high-damage combos that keep enemies off balance.

Players can switch between both styles instantly at any moment, empowering diverse playstyles. Whether chaining together seamless hybrid tactics or mastering one discipline at a time, your approach will shape how you conquer the game’s deadliest foes yet.

Beyond combat, Nioh 3 expands the world with interconnected open fields that preserve the series’ signature tension while offering greater freedom. Explore eerie villages steeped in dark secrets, face off against unpredictable yokai encounters, and test your skills in The Crucible—a new challenge zone designed to push even seasoned warriors to their limits.

For fans of the franchise, this is a welcome return. IGN rated the original Nioh a 9.6/10, praising its “epic, unforgettable adventure carried by a fierce combat system that cleverly balances style and strategy.” Nioh 2 followed with a 9/10, lauded for its depth and rewarding difficulty. Since then, Team Ninja has stayed prolific with titles like Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty and Rise of the Rōnin, but Nioh 3 marks their triumphant return to the series that defined their legacy.

A demo is live today—step into the cursed kingdom and experience the evolution firsthand.

Developing... [ttpp]