Team Ninja’s Nioh 3 has launched to critical acclaim, achieving an average Metacritic score of 86, positioning it as a potential competitor to titles like Elden Ring, according to reports from 4Gamers.
The action role-playing game (ARPG) released on February 5, 2026, and has already sparked discussion among players. Some early feedback suggests the game may be easier in its initial stages compared to previous installments in the Nioh series, prompting responses from veteran players, as noted in a Yahoo News report.
The game features a map exploration system inspired by Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, offering players a more open-world experience. One player who pre-ordered the game shared that the exploration system is “pretty satisfying,” according to a post on Gamer.com.tw. The same user noted that the difficulty level appears manageable for returning players, but may present a challenge for newcomers, particularly in the Akagi mountain area.
Alongside the game’s release, Team Ninja is hosting a “My 竹千代” (My Takechiyo) character design contest, as reported by GNN News. An exhibition showcasing the game’s historical setting and narrative is currently underway, allowing players to experience the journey from the Edo to the Sengoku period, as detailed by Paradaily.
For dedicated players, a full guide to collecting all 16 “Good Cats” within the game, along with associated rewards and the “Good Cat Enthusiast” trophy, is available from Ludens Media. This release underscores the continued innovation within the action RPG genre and the ongoing demand for challenging and immersive gaming experiences.
