If you don’t succeed at first, try throwing a shuriken.

Ninja Gaiden 4 is set to launch this month, and I find myself intrigued despite not being deeply familiar with the series. The earlier installments came out before my time, but as I age, my craving for a challenge grows. I’ve heard many tales about Ninja Gaiden’s severity, which prompts me to join the fray, albeit late.

Directors Yuji Nakao and Masakazu Hirayama emphasized the concept of fairness during a recent interview with Automaton. They pointed out that creating enjoyable challenging gameplay hinges on players feeling like they can reflect on their mistakes.

According to Nakao, Team Ninja and Platinum Games are committed to not only making the gameplay gratifying but also ensuring players experience the rewarding sensation of overcoming tough scenarios. He states, “That sense of catharsis is something I truly value.”

Hirayama concurs: “I believe fairness between the player and the enemy is crucial. If players die unexpectedly, it impedes their ability to consider what they might have done differently.” He continues, explaining that a well-balanced challenge allows players to engage meaningfully.

The game’s development team believes that this type of balance is key to the genre’s progression and their focus on fairness is an enduring value throughout the Ninja Gaiden series as it moves forward. Players will find obstacles scattered throughout the game, with a focus on rewarding triumph over difficulties—a sentiment that many players, including myself, can appreciate.