Hey gamers! The team at The Game Kitchen, along with Dotemu, Koei Tecmo Games, and Team Ninja are thrilled to introduce an exciting addition to Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound. Get ready to meet a fresh, original character hailing from the renowned Black Spider Clan—the longstanding rivals of the Hayabusa Clan.
We wanted to give you an insider look at how this exciting idea came to fruition, what you can anticipate from this new character, and some gameplay highlights we just can’t wait for you to experience.
Our journey began with a spark of inspiration. It all started with the enticing thought of playing as a member of an enemy faction. It’s a scenario we’ve always longed for in classic franchises—those rare opportunities where you step into the shoes of the other side. The Black Spider Clan, pivotal in the 3D Ninja Gaiden series, captivated us with their fierce presence and memorable personalities. So we thought, why not bring them back with a twist? That’s how Kumori came to be.
Kumori stands as a proud kunoichi from the Black Spider Clan, perfectly complementing Kenji, the game’s other lead character. While Kenji continues his training under the legendary Ryu Hayabusa, Kumori has already carved her place as the top fighter in her clan. In the aftermath of the Black Spider Clan’s near downfall, she takes on the immense responsibility of rebuilding and securing their future. Fierce and pragmatic, Kumori doesn’t shy away from using every tool at her disposal—modern weaponry, enemy tactics, or even demonic powers—to ensure victory. She is not tied to any traditional code; her only goal is triumph.
In stark contrast to Kenji, who wields a katana for close combat, Kumori uses kunai. This choice gives her remarkable range, quick attack speed, and the ability to strike from almost any position. Her agility and adaptability make her a formidable adversary, particularly when facing enemies in tricky locations or chaotic battles.
However, despite their differences, Kenji and Kumori share a loyalty-driven ethos and a strong sense of duty to their clans. Though from opposing sides, they symbolize a new wave of warriors driven by legacy but not imprisoned by it. Their paths cross at a crucial juncture where they confront a formidable demon threat, trapping them within the demon realm. Facing extinction, they make a drastic decision—to unite their powers—aware of the reverberations such an alliance would cause among their clans. This unlikely partnership is both their strength and their struggle, shaping their futures in unforeseen ways.
Players will control this dynamic duo, accessing the best of both fighters, their weapons, abilities, and a new life source: Ki. As players collect Ki from vanquished foes, Kumori’s spirit can summon formidable Spider Weapons like a Kama or a Chakram, cutting through obstacles and adversaries with ease, enabling massive damage.
Their combined fury fuels devastating attacks. Each time an enemy is defeated with a Hypercharged attack, their rage heightens. Once it peaks, gamers can unleash an awe-inspiring attack that clears the screen—a powerful showcase of retribution. Staying true to Ninja Gaiden’s essence, the gameplay remains fast-paced, fluid, and relentless. Weapons and techniques merge seamlessly, eliminating the need for character swapping and keeping the adrenaline rush ongoing.
Customizing characters also plays an essential part. By collecting Golden Scarabs, players can unlock upgrades, talismans, and techniques. Kenji’s talismans focus on augmenting melee damage, boosting defenses, and enhancing Hypercharge effects. Meanwhile, Kumori’s Shadow Arts bring a fresh take, unlocking Spider Weapons and potent Ragebound Arts tailored to varying playstyles and strategies.
While Kumori’s physical form stays trapped in the demon realm, her spirit accompanies Kenji, returning temporarily through Demonic Altars. These occasions allow her to interact with an alternate demonic world, revealing unseen paths. But her time in this state is limited, requiring quick thinking, puzzle-solving, and tackling intense challenges before it ends. These segments promise thrilling platform sequences, strategic combat, and unique explorative chances, adding to the game’s depth and excitement.
We hope this introduction to Kumori piqued your interest. We’re eager for you to experience the new chapter in the Ninja Gaiden saga—both as a Hayabusa Ninja and a Black Spider Ninja.
Mark your calendars, because Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound hits PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 in the summer of 2025!
