Nioh 3 Unveiled at Sony State of Play

Team Ninja officially unveiled Nioh 3 during Sony's State of Play event today.

The announcement trailer confirmed an early 2026 release window for this highly anticipated action-RPG sequel. Featuring expansive open-world environments and dual combat styles—Ninja and Samurai—the game launches alongside an immediate playable demo.

Here's the official description from PlayStation Blog:

In Nioh 3, players assume the role of a young warrior destined to become Shogun. His relentless battle against Yokai remains shrouded in mystery for now—but combat evolves significantly with the introduction of dual playstyles: Samurai and Ninja.

The Samurai philosophy delivers a brutal, deliberate combat system reminiscent of earlier Nioh titles. New mechanics like Arts Proficiency (enhancing martial techniques) and Deflect (precise counter-timing) heighten the lethal dance of close-quarters duels.

By contrast, the Ninja approach prioritizes speed and deception. With enhanced mobility, aerial attacks, and Ninjitsu arts like Mist (leaving decoys) or Evade (split-second dodges), players can outmaneuver opponents before striking from blind spots.

Switching styles mid-battle is seamless, allowing players to adapt strategies on the fly—whether hybridizing techniques or mastering a single discipline. Face deadlier enemies than ever across a war-torn landscape where strength, agility, and cunning determine survival.

Beyond combat innovations, Nioh 3 introduces sprawling open areas while preserving the series' signature tension. Discover villages hiding blood-soaked secrets, encounter terrifying Yokai in uncharted territories, and test your might in The Crucible’s punishing trials. Survivors will uncover the truth behind this cursed realm.

As longtime Nioh enthusiasts, we awarded the original a stellar 9.6/10—hailing its "brilliant fusion of tactical depth and stylish action." Nioh 2 similarly impressed with a 9/10, despite its complex mechanics, thanks to "flawless combat and rewarding challenge." Since Nioh 2’s 2020 launch, Team Ninja has remained active with titles like Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty and Rise of the Rōnin, plus the in-development Ninja Gaiden 4.

For those who missed it, check out our full recap of Sony’s June 2025 State of Play announcements.

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