Nioh 3: Release Date, Demo, and New Features

Nioh 3 is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and PC in 2026, with players currently able to experience a preview of its Sengoku setting and dark samurai action through a demo available on Sony’s console. The demo is live today on PS5 and will remain accessible until June 18, courtesy of developer Team Ninja and publisher Koei Tecmo.

Game Reveal and Trailer

The announcement of the game came as a pleasant surprise during Sony’s State of Play event, accompanied by a trailer that showcased large, demonic creatures and intense action sequences. Similar to its predecessors, Nioh 3 is a dark fantasy action RPG set in 15th-century Japan. The original Nioh Nioh was released in 2017, followed by its sequel in 2020, with several installments of Dead or Alive released in between.

New Combat System

Nioh 3 introduces an innovative combat system that allows players to switch between two distinct fighting styles: Samurai and Ninja. The Samurai style retains the close-range martial arts focus familiar to fans of previous Nioh titles, while the Ninja style emphasizes quick reactions, including dodging and aerial maneuvers. Players will have the ability to change combat styles on the fly, enhancing the dynamic nature of gameplay.

Open World Exploration

The game features an expansive open world—referred to by Team Ninja as an “open field”—that players can explore. This new environment promises to offer a fresh sense of freedom in exploration while maintaining the unique tension and confrontations that have become hallmarks of the Nioh series.

Developer Insights

Fumihiko Yasuda, head of Team Ninja, shared insights about the game, stating, “Aside from the new battle styles, Nioh 3 also enables players to enjoy an open field that offers a new freedom of exploration to the unique tension and confrontations that have become a defining characteristic of the Nioh series.” He further elaborated on the gameplay experience, mentioning, “Experience unexpected encounters with formidable yokai, explore suspicious villages riddled in violent secrets, and take on the daunting challenges of The Crucible.” This statement highlights the depth and complexity players can expect in the upcoming title.

Conclusion

As anticipation builds for Nioh 3, the demo currently available on PS5 provides a glimpse into the game’s innovative features and engaging gameplay. With its release set for 2026, fans of the series and newcomers alike have much to look forward to in this dark fantasy action RPG.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at Engadget.