Nioh 3 Gameplay Showcases New Boss Fight and Combat Styles Ahead of 2026 Release
KOEI TECMO has shared new footage of Nioh 3, with IGN publishing exclusive gameplay highlighting an intense new boss fight. The third entry in Team Ninja’s acclaimed action RPG series was unveiled just three months ago during Sony’s June State of Play and is already shaping up to be one of early 2026’s most anticipated releases. Unlike its predecessors, which were initially PlayStation exclusives, Nioh 3 will launch simultaneously on PlayStation 5 and PC, with a Steam page already live (though system requirements are not yet listed).
One of the most significant shifts for Nioh 3 is its open-world map, replacing the more linear environments of the first two games. Exploration will play a much larger role, with more freedom to approach encounters and uncover hidden elements across its world.
Combat has also been expanded with the introduction of dual fighting styles, Samurai and Ninja, which players can switch between at any time.
Samurai Style: This mode preserves the series’ traditional melee combat while adding new mechanics. Arts Proficiency enhances the power of martial techniques, while Deflect lets players block at the last possible moment for punishing counterattacks. These mechanics create high-stakes duels with enemies, emphasizing precision and timing.
Ninja Style: Focused on agility and speed, this mode excels at evasive maneuvers and aerial combat. Players can harness "Ninjitsu" techniques, such as Mist, which leaves behind a clone after an attack, and Evade, which allows players to narrowly escape danger. Ninja combat emphasizes hit-and-run tactics and rapid counterstrikes from unexpected angles.
Fans have already had a chance to experience Nioh 3 via a limited-time Alpha demo in June. Developer Team Ninja has since published a feedback report outlining key improvements being implemented for the final release. These include:
More responsive and customizable controls.
Adjustments to enemies and stage gimmicks deemed unreasonably difficult.
Improved tutorials and clearer exploration elements in the open world.
Balanced progression and refined combat notifications.
Enhanced multiplayer functionality and background visuals.
With these changes, Team Ninja aims to refine the blend of challenge and accessibility, ensuring Nioh 3 evolves without losing the punishing but rewarding feel the series is known for.
Nioh 3 is scheduled to launch in early 2026 for PC and PlayStation 5.
Do you prefer the precision and power of the Samurai style, or will you embrace the speed and trickery of the Ninja style when Nioh 3 launches?
