IGN has unveiled gameplay footage showcasing an intense boss battle from the upcoming Nioh 3, KOEI TECMO’s highly anticipated action RPG. Initially revealed during Sony’s June State of Play event, the title is slated for a global release across platforms in early 2026, marking a departure from previous staggered console exclusivity.
Expanding accessibility, Nioh 3 will launch simultaneously on PlayStation and PC platforms. PC users can already wishlist the game via Steam, though technical specifications remain unlisted.
The sequel introduces a structural overhaul, replacing linear level design with a vast, interconnected world. Combat receives dual character specializations, allowing instantaneous swapping between Samurai and Ninja disciplines. The Samurai archetype retains the series’ signature methodical combat, now augmented with mechanics like Martial Mastery (boosting weapon arts) and Counterstrike (parrying attacks to create openings). Meanwhile, the Ninja specialization prioritizes agility through maneuvers like Phantom Shift (evasion via spectral decoys) and Shadowstep (precision dodging), enabling hit-and-run tactics complemented by ninjutsu tools.
Following June’s alpha test, developer Team Ninja outlined planned refinements in a community report, addressing feedback from over 200,000 participants. Key adjustments include:
- Enhanced control responsiveness and input customization
- Tactical rebalancing of overpowered enemies/environmental hazards
- Streamlined tutorials and UI clarity improvements
- Visual upgrades to environments and lighting systems
- Multiplayer stability optimizations
- Revised progression curves for gear/experience systems
- Dynamic loot distribution adjustments
- Combat notification management via toggle options
- Refined open-world navigation markers