Nioh 3 Developer Ensures There Will Be No Sudden Difficulty Spikes in the New Open Field Action RPG

Nioh 3 marks a major evolution for Team NINJA’s acclaimed action RPG franchise. For the first time, the title will be published directly by Koei Tecmo, meaning the game will launch simultaneously on PC and PlayStation 5, unlike the first two entries that released on PlayStation first.

One of the biggest shifts is the transition to an open field design, replacing the traditionally linear mission structure. Producer Fumihiko Yasuda, speaking with Multiplayer.it, emphasized that this choice was central to improving accessibility and creating a more gradual progression curve.

Yasuda explained that Team NINJA wanted a world that gives newcomers room to learn without exposing them to abrupt difficulty spikes. While the series remains known for its demanding combat and punishing encounters, Nioh 3 is designed so that challenge increases steadily and organically.

“There are players who invested thousands of hours in the Nioh series, but many more may be interested in Nioh 3 as newcomers,” he said. “For newcomers, we added a thorough tutorial, but the most important thing was ensuring the game would not have sudden difficulty spikes. Everything must happen gradually.”

Despite this more welcoming structure, Team NINJA is not dialing back the intensity. The open field features freer exploration, but also extremely tough enemies roaming the environment, keeping the combat-driven identity intact. More importantly, the team has expanded the ways players can approach bosses, whether through equipment, exploration rewards or strategic preparation.

Yasuda stressed that the emotional arc of facing defeat, reassessing and ultimately triumphing remains the heart of Nioh’s identity. “What matters is what the player thinks after being defeated. What do I need? How do I prepare to win? We chose to offer many options so players can find their own way to victory. The exhilaration of finally beating that boss is essential.”

Team NINJA aims to preserve that signature feeling while ensuring both veterans and newcomers can engage with the game at their own pace.

Nioh 3 will launch on February 6, 2026 for PC and PlayStation 5.

Do you prefer the traditional mission based structure of earlier Nioh titles, or are you excited to explore the new open field approach? Share your thoughts below.