After a staggering twelve-year wait, the latest numbered entry in the Ninja Gaiden series has finally unsheathed its blade with a rather spirited start.

As of 11:00 AM on the 21st, the critical reception for Ninja Gaiden 4 is looking quite healthy. It holds a solid average above 80, with the Xbox version sitting at 83 from 38 outlets, the PC version at 82 from 22 outlets, and the PS5 version at 81 from 23 outlets.

The primary cause for this applause? The action. Despite the long hiatus, the game hasn't lost its touch. You can clearly feel the pedigree of PlatinumGames here, as they’ve leaned heavily into their signature 'stylish action,' delivering a pace and visual flair that fans have been craving.

However, it isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Critics point out that the narrative lacks depth, and the level design feels a bit uninspired. Some have voiced frustration with the camera and targeting systems, while others argue that the limited weapon variety makes the otherwise flashy combat feel a tad monotonous. It's also worth noting that the platforming elements and side quests are proving to be quite divisive among the player base.

Meanwhile, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a collaborative effort between PlatinumGames, Team Ninja, and Koei Tecmo, with Xbox Game Studios handling the publishing duties. The title has drawn attention for its visceral, blood-soaked high-speed combat and those iconic, flashy maneuvers we've come to expect from the protagonist.