PREVIEW – Team Ninja’s infamously unforgiving samurai Soulslike is making a comeback, and it’s shaping up to be bigger, faster, and bloodier than ever before. Officially revealed during PlayStation’s June 2025 State of Play, Nioh 3 was the long-awaited announcement fans were craving—confirming the return of intense, punishing action in a more ambitious package. PS5 players even had limited-time access to an exclusive demo.

That demo window may be closed, but Nioh 3’s promotional engine is just starting to ramp up. The game introduces open-field exploration, dual combat stances, and even more yokai-fueled madness. Whether you’re a sucker for brutal boss fights or the mythological lens on feudal Japan, this sequel looks set to be a major evolution for the franchise.

When Is Nioh 3 Coming Out?

The launch window for Nioh 3 has been set for early 2026, as confirmed by both the PlayStation Blog and June’s State of Play presentation. Based on that, a release between January and March seems likely—unless delays arise. Judging by the polish of the demo, a Q1 release feels all but certain. We’ll probably get a solid date during either Gamescom or Tokyo Game Show. Team Ninja is known for their tight marketing timelines, so expect a steady stream of updates heading into launch.

Price and Pre-Order Info

Pre-orders for Nioh 3 haven’t gone live yet, and likely won’t until the official release date is locked in. Players who completed the demo were rewarded with a unique Crimson Kabuto helmet, which will carry over into the full version. Whether more demos or limited cosmetic unlocks will return is unknown. However, given past launches, we can expect multiple editions including collector’s versions and digital bonuses. It’s safe to assume a standard $69.99 price tag.

Which Platforms Will Nioh 3 Launch On?

Nioh 3 is confirmed for PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam from day one. That’s a big step forward for the series, considering both prior entries debuted on PlayStation consoles before coming to PC months later. There’s no PS4 version in development, and no word yet on an Xbox release.

Trailer and Gameplay Overview

The reveal trailer for Nioh 3 hit the ground running—showcasing fast, vicious, and cinematic combat. The game adds a dual-style fighting system that lets you seamlessly switch between a slow, defensive Samurai stance and a quick, evasive Ninja stance. The mechanic gives players more flexibility in how they approach every encounter.

Open-field zones replace the segmented mission maps of previous entries, offering interconnected spaces filled with branching paths, optional bosses, yokai ambushes, and hidden loot. The demo also highlighted the new character creation system, which will be fully available at launch. With additions like double-jumping and expanded mobility, Nioh 3 is shaping up to be a faster, freer, and deadlier evolution—bringing more than a little Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice energy into the mix.

What Is the Nioh Series All About?

Developed by Team Ninja, Nioh is an action RPG series set in a supernatural reinterpretation of Japan’s war-torn Sengoku era. The franchise blends real history with dark fantasy, pitting players against demonic yokai and legendary warriors alike. Combat is relentlessly difficult, demanding tight reflexes, stamina (Ki) management, and mastery of weapon stances.

The first game followed William Adams, an Englishman-turned-samurai chasing down a villainous sorcerer during Japan’s unification. Nioh 2 acted as a prequel, casting players as Hidechiyo, a customizable half-yokai protagonist trying to uncover their origin and face a rising demonic threat.

Is Team Ninja Developing Nioh 3?

Yes—Nioh 3 is being developed by the same core team at Team Ninja, with director Fumihiko Yasuda once again at the helm. This isn’t a reboot or spinoff—it’s a direct sequel continuing the studio’s hard-hitting legacy.

Is Nioh 3 an Open World Game?

Not quite. While Nioh 3 moves beyond traditional mission-based levels, it doesn’t go full open-world like Elden Ring or Ghost of Tsushima. Instead, it features “open-field” areas—larger, interconnected zones packed with objectives, secrets, and enemy encounters. It’s a significant expansion in scope compared to past entries.

Will Nioh 3 Include Multiplayer?

Yes, multiplayer is returning in Nioh 3. Co-op systems like Visitor Summons and Expedition Missions are making a comeback. While PvP hasn’t been detailed yet, it’s likely on the table given the precedent. Whether you’re summoning allies or joining a friend’s world, online play remains a core feature.

Was There a Nioh 3 Demo?

There was—a PS5-exclusive demo ran from June 4 to June 18, 2025. It offered a first look at new mechanics, open-field zones, and the character creator. Finishing the demo granted a unique item in the full game. No second demo has been announced, but an open beta closer to launch seems plausible.

-theGeek-

Source: the Escapist