During the last Developer_Direct, we showed off lots of brand new gameplay and gave developers insights into four upcoming games coming to Xbox Series X|S, PC, Game Pass and Cloud – and even released a surprise bonus remaster along the way .
We visited the studios behind it DOOM: The Dark Ages, South of midnight, Chiaroscuro: Expedition 33 and the never-before-seen NINJA GAIDEN 4 to get a glimpse of new gameplay footage as well as important information about each game, directly from the developers working on it. To celebrate the return of NINJA GAIDEN, we have also announced the release of a remastered version of the beloved Xbox classic. NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black will be available starting today on Xbox Series X|S, PC and Game Pass.
In addition to Xbox Cloud Gaming, all games in our show also support Xbox Play Anywhere. This means that if you buy it through the store on Xbox or Windows, you can play it on Xbox and Windows PC at no additional cost. Game progress and achievements are saved on Xbox and Windows PC.
Here's a recap of everything we announced and covered today during Developer_Direct:
DOOM: The Dark Ages – Starting on May 15, 2025
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam, PlayStation 5 and play with Game Pass from day one*
The id Software team gave a detailed insight into the matter DOOM: The Dark Ages and announced that the cinematic, epic first-person shooter will be released on May 15, 2025.
DOOM: The Dark Agesa prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternalis set in a dark fantasy/sci-fi world with the instantly recognizable hellish twist of DOOM. This section examined three staples of the game: combat, which dealt with deadly new weapons of mass destruction for the Hunter to wield; “Exploration,” which offered a glimpse into an incredible new medieval-inspired setting that takes players into dark and eerie realms never before seen; and Story, which provided an overview of the characters and challenges the Hunter must face on his journey to turn the tide in a war.
This is the most ambitious DOOM game yet. id Software takes the opportunity to present both newcomers and long-time fans with an epic adventure as a super weapon in a medieval war against Hell itself. Find out more about the game and additional information from the developers in our Xbox Wire article.
South of midnight – Starting on April 8, 2025
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox app for Windows PC, Steam, Cloud and play with Game Pass from day one*
Compulsion Games took us behind the scenes at their studio in Montreal, Canada to find out more South of midnighttheir new third-person action-adventure game, releasing on April 8, 2025.
In the Compulsion section, we learned more about the journey of Hazel, the game's protagonist, which takes her to a dark magical world where she discovers her new skills as a weaver. Her story is filled with macabre Southern Gothic folklore and encounters with mythical, larger-than-life creatures that shape her growth and understanding of her newfound powers.
You can see more of it South of midnight Handcrafted art style, world building and combat South of midnight New story trailer and get ready to explore America's Deep South with Hazel Pre-order today – and start playing up to five days early South of midnight Premium Edition. Find out more about the game's history in our exclusive Xbox Wire article here.
Chiaroscuro: Expedition 33 – Starting on April 24, 2025
Xbox Series
We visited Montpellier, France, the home of Sandfall Interactive when they were developing their first game. Chiaroscuro: Expedition 33. This turn-based RPG is set in a fantasy version of late 19th century France, where the world faces an existential threat year after year. The developer gave a deeper insight into the game's innovative mechanics, such as the “Reactive Turn-Based” system, and the unique art direction that brings the game's world to life. We even got a first look at it Expedition 33is the extensive overworld map.
As a coup de grace, Sandfall Interactive confirmed the game's release date: Our journey to stop the Paintress begins on April 24th. For more information about the team's creative vision and extensive customization options, stay tuned here on Xbox Wire.
NINJA GAIDEN 4 – Market launch in autumn 2025
Xbox Series
With the reveal, Team NINJA announced the return of a popular franchise fromNINJA GAIDEN4. After more than a decade, the action masters of Team NINJA and PlatinumGames have teamed up with Xbox Game Studios Publishing to bring us an exciting new chapter in the NINJA GAIDEN series, a series with a long history on Xbox.
We were introduced to Yakumo, a new protagonist whose destination lies in the heart of a destroyed Tokyo. On his mission, Yakumo not only meets fiends and demons, but also the legendary master ninja himself: Ryu Hayabusa. Gameplay footage revealed that Yakumo will introduce players to a stylish new take on ninja action with Bloodbind Ninjutsu, alongside old techniques like the Flying Swallow and the Izuna Drop. Ryu will also return as a playable character with a revamped arsenal that stays true to his trademark brutality and precision.
During the segment, developers PlatinumGames and Team NINJA shared details about the game's story, its setting in near-future Tokyo, and its action-packed combat mechanics. We also got a glimpse into the creative process behind this highly anticipated title, which will and may release in Fall 2025 Wishlist To Xbox, PCAnd PlayStation 5. For the latest information, follow Team Ninja on social media (YouTube, X,Facebook,Instagram). Check out an exclusive interview with the developers on Xbox Wire.
NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black – Available from today!
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox app for Windows PC, and play it from day one with Game Pass*
The highly acclaimed and legendary game from 2008 returns with a graphical overhaul! NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black features the fast-paced ninja action of legendary hero Ryu Hayabusa and his deadly dragon sword. Embark on a global battle against formidable enemies, take part in relentless battles and take on the role of additional characters Momiji, Ayana and Rachel.
Looking ahead
As with every Developer Direct, today's show is just a selection of the games coming to Xbox this year. Next comes ExplainedObsidian Entertainment's upcoming fantasy role-playing game coming to Xbox Series on February 18, 2025. As our own studios and incredible partners work on new experiences, stay tuned to Xbox Wire and Xbox social channels this year to learn , why there's never been a better time to be an Xbox gamer.
*The game catalog varies depending on the plan – Xbox.com/gamepass.
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