Nioh 3 is the next chapter in Team Ninja’s intense action RPG series, and it’s officially been revealed with a limited-time demo. Announced during PlayStation’s State of Play on June 4, the demo is available exclusively on PlayStation 5 until June 18.

This early look at the game introduces several new features and systems that build on the foundation set by the previous two titles. Nioh 3 introduces a split combat system where players can switch between Samurai and Ninja styles. Samurai Style focuses on heavy weapons like odachi, traditional swords, and spears, while Ninja Style is built around speed, agility, and weapons such as kusarigama, dual swords, and talons. Each style features its own skill tree, gear slots, and unique abilities.

Strategic style-swapping mid-battle plays a major role. Players who switch styles when an enemy is charged with a red aura can break through their defenses, adding another layer of depth to combat. Ninja attacks are generally faster and consume less stamina, but Samurai attacks hit harder. Both styles also include magical abilities and the option to summon Guardian Spirits for temporary transformations, which expand on mechanics seen in Nioh 2.

The demo also previews the game’s open-field level design. While not a full open world, the new areas are larger and less linear than before, allowing more exploration and freedom in how players approach missions. After defeating the demo’s first boss, a wider zone opens up, giving a clearer picture of what the full game will offer.

Customization returns in a limited form, giving players a chance to adjust their character’s appearance through a few preset options. A photo mode is included, as well as language settings that let players choose between Japanese and English voice tracks.

Nioh 3 Samurai and Ninja styles (Photo: PlayStation)

Nioh 3 includes three multiplayer modes. ‘Summon Visitor’ allows others to join specific missions. ‘Become a Visitor’ sends players into someone else’s game. ‘Expeditions’ let three players tackle levels together, providing both challenge and camaraderie in clearing out strong yokai enemies.

The leveling system also builds on past mechanics. Players collect Amrita to boost core stats at shrines, and Battle Scrolls unlock additional combat moves. Loot drops are randomized, keeping weapon selection fresh with each run.

Team Ninja is seeking feedback through a post-demo survey on their official website. That input may influence the final version of the game, which is expected to be released in early 2026. The demo offers a strong preview of what’s to come and is only available for a short time, making now the best moment to dive in.