One of the best day one Xbox Game Pass releases of 2025, Ninja Gaiden 4, has just announced the impending arrival of its first major DLC. The title is just one of many games that have landed on Xbox Game Pass on the same day it released, continuing one of the most popular trends among Xbox players who subscribe to the service.
Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass has continuously delivered premium gaming experiences through its popular subscription model. The service stands out among its competition on other consoles by committing to regular day one releases for some of its biggest games, with upcoming titles like Forza Horizon 6 and Fable included in the mix. Multiple titles are confirmed to be hitting Xbox Game Pass in March 2026, with the list including at least one day one release. The service also includes classic titles, allowing modern gamers to experience some of the most revered games in the medium’s history.
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Ninja Gaiden 4 Is Getting a New, Story-Driven Expansion in March
Team Ninja’s hit action title Ninja Gaiden 4, one of Xbox Game Pass’ biggest day one releases of 2025, has revealed its first major story-driven expansion. “The Two Masters” DLC promises new story missions, game modes, and weapons for both of the game’s two protagonists, along with a handful of other gameplay tweaks to improve the game’s overall experience. Fans won’t have to wait long to try out the game’s new content, as the DLC is scheduled to release on March 4, 2026.
Who’s That Character?
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Easy (7.5s)
Medium (5.0s)
Hard (2.5s)
Permadeath (2.5s)
Start
Restart
Back
Results
0
High Score: 0
—
Who’s That Character?
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Easy (7.5s)Medium (5.0s)Hard (2.5s)Permadeath (2.5s)Start
RestartBack
Results
0
High Score: 0
—
The two playable characters of the critically acclaimed Ninja Gaiden 4, iconic series lead Ryu Hayabusa and newly introduced ninja Yakumo, will both see their stories expanded in the new story chapters included in “The Two Masters.” The new chapters will take place after the conclusion of the main story, allowing each character to progress their journey even further as they battle brand-new foes and bosses. Both Ryu and Yakumo will also receive a new weapon, with Ryu claiming the new “Jakotsumon” serpent gauntlets and Yakumo wielding a “Solitaire” scythe. The two unique weapons will be acclimated to each ninja’s fighting style, allowing players to indulge in even more combat options. While the story chapters occur after the completion of the main game, these two weapons will become available to players mid-campaign.
Aside from the added story content and new weapons, Ninja Gaiden 4′s DLC will include a new endurance gameplay mode titled “Abyssal Road.” This challenging mode will feature 100 new enemy encounters, with foes from both the base game and the DLC, along with new mechanics that promise to shake up the game’s familiar gameplay by altering various conditions of battle. The DLC pack will also include a host of quality-of-life improvements and bug fixes, including combat tweaks and options for customizing players’ preferred weapon sets, giving fans an even smoother and more seamless experience while playing Ninja Gaiden 4.
Image via Xbox Game Studios
With the announcement of “The Two Masters” DLC for Ninja Gaiden 4, Team Ninja and publisher Koei Tecmo continue to propel the series forward, while giving players another reason to return to the game. The resurgence of the Ninja Gaiden franchise helps to boost legendary star Ryu Hayabusa back into the spotlight for both new and returning fans. Ryu is also featured heavily in the announcement trailer for the upcoming Dead or Alive sequel, allowing Team Ninja’s two most famous franchises a chance to reclaim their places as gaming staples for a new generation.
Released
October 21, 2025
ESRB
Mature 17+ / Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language, Suggestive Themes
Publisher(s)
Xbox Game Studios
Source: Xbox Wire
