CHARACTERS

Meet the warriors of Ninja Gaiden 4

PLAYABLE CHARACTERS

Ninja Gaiden 4 features two playable characters, each with unique combat styles and abilities. Master both warriors to experience the complete story.

Yakumo

YAKUMO

The Raven Clan Ninja

CLAN Raven Ninja Clan
ROLE Main Protagonist
COMBAT STYLE Raven Style / Nué Style
AVAILABILITY Story Mode (Default)
VOICE ACTOR (EN) Yuki Kaida
VOICE ACTOR (JP) Yuki Kaida

BACKGROUND

Yakumo is a young ninja from the rival Raven clan, designed as a warrior capable of standing alongside the legendary Ryu Hayabusa. As the main protagonist of Ninja Gaiden 4, Yakumo is tasked with infiltrating the corrupted Tokyo to assassinate Dark Dragon Priestess Seori to fulfill his clan's ancient prophecy.

However, the mission takes an unexpected turn when Seori offers to help Yakumo undo the seal instead, forming an unlikely alliance. Together, they must face the Divine Dragon Order and hordes of Fiends that plague the desolate metropolis.

COMBAT STYLE

Yakumo's combat style differs significantly from Ryu Hayabusa's while remaining mechanically accessible to series veterans. He specializes in:

  • Raven Style Combat System

    A unique fighting style exclusive to Yakumo, emphasizing speed and aggressive attacks.

  • Bloodbind Ninjutsu Nué Style

    Enables dynamic attacks and instant eliminations through special ninjutsu techniques.

  • Enhanced Mobility

    Advanced wall-running, wall-jumping, and grappling hook mechanics for vertical exploration.

  • Ultimate Techniques

    Devastating finishing moves that can turn the tide of battle.

SPECIAL ABILITIES

Wall-Running

Traverse vertical surfaces and reach high platforms with fluid wall-running mechanics.

Grappling Hook

Utilize the grappling hook for dynamic traversal and combat positioning.

Obliteration Techniques

Execute brutal finishing moves on weakened enemies.

Nué Style Ninjutsu

Channel Bloodbind energy for devastating supernatural attacks.

UNLOCKABLE SKINS

  • Default Raven Ninja Outfit
  • Dark Dragon Descendant (Pre-order Bonus)
  • Raven Master Yakumo (Digital Deluxe)
  • Divine Chimera (Digital Deluxe)
Ryu Hayabusa

RYU HAYABUSA

The Legendary Dragon Ninja

CLAN Hayabusa Ninja Clan
ROLE Legendary Warrior
COMBAT STYLE Dragon Ninja Style
AVAILABILITY After Story / Chapter Select
VOICE ACTOR (EN) Troy Baker
VOICE ACTOR (JP) Hideyuki Hori

BACKGROUND

Ryu Hayabusa is the legendary Dragon Ninja and the iconic protagonist of the Ninja Gaiden series. Known as one of the world's most skilled warriors, Ryu has faced countless supernatural threats and emerged victorious through his unwavering determination and masterful combat abilities.

In Ninja Gaiden 4, Ryu appears as a playable character after completing the main story, allowing players to experience the game from the perspective of the legendary ninja. His presence in the corrupted Tokyo brings a different dimension to the narrative and gameplay.

COMBAT STYLE

Ryu Hayabusa represents the pinnacle of ninja mastery, wielding the legendary Dragon Sword and a vast arsenal of weapons and techniques:

  • Dragon Ninja Techniques

    Traditional Hayabusa clan fighting style perfected over generations.

  • Legendary Weapons Mastery

    Expert proficiency with the Dragon Sword and numerous other deadly weapons.

  • Ultimate Techniques

    Signature devastating attacks that have defined the series.

  • Classic Ninpo Magic

    Access to powerful elemental ninjutsu techniques.

SIGNATURE WEAPONS

Dragon Sword

The legendary blade of the Dragon Ninja, capable of incredible destructive power.

Vigoorian Flails

Dual flails for wide-range devastating attacks.

Lunar Staff

A mystical staff for balanced offense and defense.

Dual Katana

Twin blades for lightning-fast combination attacks.

SPECIAL ABILITIES

Flying Swallow

Ryu's signature aerial attack technique.

Izuna Drop

Devastating aerial throw technique.

Art of the Inferno

Fire-based ninpo for area damage.

Guillotine Throw

Brutal finishing technique on downed enemies.

UNLOCKABLE SKINS

  • Classic Black Dragon Ninja Outfit
  • Traditional Dark Blue (Digital Deluxe)
  • Legendary Black Falcon (Digital Deluxe)
  • Dead or Alive Costume (Bonus)

HOW TO UNLOCK RYU HAYABUSA

1

Complete the main story campaign as Yakumo

2

Ryu becomes available in Chapter Select mode

3

Replay any chapter with Ryu's unique abilities

KEY CHARACTERS

SEORI

Dark Dragon Priestess

Originally Yakumo's assassination target, Seori forms an unexpected alliance with the Raven ninja. As the Dark Dragon Priestess, she holds secrets about undoing the seal that has corrupted Tokyo. Her knowledge and mystical powers become crucial to Yakumo's mission.

AYANE

The Killer Kunoichi

A legendary kunoichi from the Mugen Tenshin Ninja Clan and master of the Hajin Mon sect. Known as the fastest ninja in combat, Ayane serves as a crucial ally to Ryu Hayabusa. She provides intelligence and support throughout the mission, utilizing her incredible speed, wall-running acrobatics, and signature Art of the Raging Mountain God technique to aid in the fight against the corrupted Tokyo.

THE RAVEN CLAN

Yakumo's Origin

The rival ninja clan to the Hayabusa lineage. The Raven Clan holds an ancient prophecy that drives Yakumo's initial mission. Their history and connection to the Dark Dragon reveal deeper layers of the Ninja Gaiden mythology.

YAKUMO VS RYU: COMBAT COMPARISON

ASPECT YAKUMO RYU HAYABUSA
Combat Style Raven Style / Nué Style Dragon Ninja Style
Specialty Aggressive, Dynamic Attacks Balanced, Technical Mastery
Mobility Grappling Hook, Enhanced Wall-Running Traditional Wall-Running, Flying Swallow
Signature Move Bloodbind Ninjutsu Izuna Drop
Difficulty Beginner-Friendly Advanced Players
Story Role Main Campaign Post-Game / Chapter Select
Weapon Variety Moderate Extensive

Pro Tip: While Yakumo is designed for accessibility and features modern combat mechanics, Ryu Hayabusa offers the classic Ninja Gaiden experience with deeper weapon mastery and traditional techniques. Both characters can complete all content, so choose based on your preferred playstyle.