Microsoft’s first Xbox Developer Direct of 2025 has set the stage for an exciting year ahead. From long-awaited sequels to new IPs, this event unveiled some of the biggest upcoming titles for Xbox players. While fans were expecting to hear about familiar franchises, there were still a few surprises that left us eager for what’s to come. Here are the top five surprises from the January Xbox Developer Direct.
Ninja Gaiden 4 Announced After Over a Decade of Waiting
One of the most exciting announcements came in the form of Ninja Gaiden 4, a long-overdue sequel to the last mainline entry, Ninja Gaiden 3, which released in 2012. Developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, this entry marks a significant return to the beloved action series. Fans were stunned when it was revealed that the game will introduce a new protagonist, Yakumo, who hails from the Raven Clan. Though Ryu Hayabusa, the iconic ninja, will play a role, it’s Yakumo’s journey through a transformed Tokyo that will steal the spotlight.
Set in a Tokyo ravaged by the return of the Dark Dragon, players will face a miasma rain that alters the city and the enemies within. Yakumo will wield unique abilities, such as the “Bloodraven Form,” allowing him to manipulate blood as a weapon. The return of Ninja Gaiden has been a long time coming, and this new chapter is sure to satisfy fans who have been waiting for over a decade. Set for release in Fall 2025, this was undoubtedly one of the biggest surprises of the event.
Ninja Gaiden 2: Black Gets a Surprise Shadow Drop
If waiting for Ninja Gaiden 4 isn’t enough, Xbox fans got an unexpected treat with the surprise release of Ninja Gaiden 2: Black on Xbox Game Pass. Remade in Unreal Engine 5, this classic from 2008 has been given new life for modern consoles. The surprise shadow drop allowed fans to jump back into the action immediately after the Xbox Developer Direct broadcast. If you’ve missed the fast-paced, brutal combat of Ryu Hayabusa, now’s the perfect time to revisit the title before Ninja Gaiden 4 arrives later this year.
South of Midnight Showcases Magical Southern Gothic Adventure
A standout reveal during the Xbox Developer Direct was South of Midnight, an atmospheric southern Gothic adventure game from Compulsion Games. Set for release on April 8, 2025, the game follows Hazel, a young woman with magical powers, as she journeys through the haunted and mysterious Deep South. The reveal trailer teased not only a gripping narrative but also innovative gameplay mechanics, including boss battles against mystical creatures like a giant crocodile.
With a unique art style reminiscent of stop-motion animation and a story rooted in Southern Gothic folklore, South of Midnight offers players a magical journey through a world filled with strange and supernatural creatures. Hazel’s quest to heal cursed beings by collecting their fragmented memories looks like it will be a hauntingly beautiful experience when it arrives this spring.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Brings Unique RPG Mechanics
Lastly, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based RPG from Sandfall Interactive, was unveiled as a game to watch in 2025. Slated for release on April 24, 2025, this title promises a fresh take on the genre with a reactive turn-based combat system. Set in a fantastical French-inspired world, the game focuses on flawed characters who must unite to stop an impending threat.
The deep character customization and skill trees are sure to satisfy RPG fans, and the world map feature will offer plenty of exploration opportunities. The game’s story doesn’t focus purely on good vs. evil but rather on the unique motivations of each character, making for a more nuanced experience. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 looks poised to offer an exciting new RPG adventure for fans of the genre.
Doom: The Dark Ages Revives Classic Doom Gameplay with a Medieval Twist
Another major surprise came with the reveal of Doom: The Dark Ages, a prequel to the 2016 Doom reboot and Doom Eternal. Set to release on May 15, 2025, this entry takes the franchise in an exciting direction by combining the brutal combat of Doom with medieval warfare. Gone is the fast-paced, acrobatic action of Doom Eternal, replaced with a more grounded, tank-like combat style. Players will engage in battles where standing firm and slamming enemies with a massive flail or shield-saw is key.
In this prequel, players will also experience new gameplay mechanics, including the chance to pilot a mech or ride a cybernetic dragon equipped with gatling guns. If that’s not enough, there’s also the promise of exploration and decision-making that will influence the path forward in the game. This thrilling twist on the Doom formula is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats when it releases later this year.
Final Thoughts
The January 2025 Xbox Developer Direct didn’t just focus on already established franchises, but also gave a look at exciting new titles that will define the year for Xbox players. From the long-awaited return of Ninja Gaiden to the blood-soaked chaos of Doom: The Dark Ages, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with the magical adventures of South of Midnight and the strategic depth of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Microsoft has set a high bar for the upcoming gaming year.