Yakumo of Ninja Gaiden 4 deals serious action-larded information released by Team Ninja to spice up the whole demonstration. Theoretically, the teaser suggests Yakumo, probably the ultimate killer from the Raven Clan, having to shred the enemies to confetti. No chill here.
Now comes the real question: Who exactly is Yakumo? In case you have been dozing off on the Ninja Gaiden lore world (which is bad), this guy is part of the Raven clan-a Ninja Avengers style, only with way more killing. Now, in Ninja Gaiden 4, he wields his Bloodraven form, which I would dare say is a very remarkable ability. Bloodraven is not just a fancy name, it changes his weapons into instruments of terror. Just imagine slicing from one side to another with blades which probably whisper “you’re already dead” in mid-air. So cruel!
The Team Ninja tweet (of course they had to hyped it on Twitter) just made some friends on the Internet Watch Yakumo in action; this guy moves like a blender on murder. The hashtags #NINJAGAIDEN and #NINJAGAIDEN4 are screaming for all the fans to get hyped, and well, it is working. There is even a link to wishlist the game, so honestly, you should probably wishlist it unless you want to miss out on a ton of ninja chaos.
Now, talking about Bloodraven form; it is a major weapon upgrade on gameplay. Rumors suggest it either drains enemy health or gives Yakumo a speed buff. Or just maybe, it makes everything explode. Who knows? Team Ninja loves to keep us guessing. Regardless, what is certain is that this will play an integral part in the action to dissolve any bad that is thrown our way.
Speaking of bad—what is this about these “enemies that surround you” the tweet refers to? Proudly, Ninja Gaiden has never shied away from throwing mobs of bad guys at the players, but the way this is phrased makes it sound like Yakumo’s going to be overwhelmed by a swarm of enemies. Is it a new swarm mechanic? Or just classic Ninja Gaiden levels turned all the way up? Either way, prepare to mash those buttons because your life depends on it (at least in-game).
No date for release? It’s kind of annoying, but at least it’s something. And the wait is going to hurt with how good Yakumo looks. With Team Ninja’s reputation with combat systems being ridiculous (have you ever played Nioh?), Ninja Gaiden 4 might be one of those rare “drop everything and play” installments.
Long story short: If you like ninjas, blood, or just gorgeously animated violence, keep tabs on this one. Better yet, follow the wishlist link before Yankumo comes after you for ignoring him. Just saying.
In a nutshell: Ninja Gaiden 4’s Yakumo is a crazy killer with a Bloodraven upgrade and a game that will probably make us cry with joy. Stay sharp ninjas.
