Ninja Gaiden is a single-player action hack-and-slash following Ryu Hayabusa, a master ninja whose village is destroyed by the Vigoor Empire and whose cursed Dark Dragon Blade is stolen. Armed with the Dragon Sword, Ryu seeks vengeance and the truth behind the dark forces at work, battling human and demonic enemies across cities, fortresses, and otherworldly realms.

Combat is fast and combo-driven, mixing melee weapons, ranged tools, and elemental Ninpo magic. Ryu can chain fluid attacks, perform evasive maneuvers, unleash powerful Ultimate Techniques, and use acrobatic movement like wall-running and aerial combat. Progression comes from collecting essence to upgrade weapons, abilities, and equipment, with exploration rewarding hidden items and upgrades. High difficulty, demanding bosses, limited saves, and extra challenge modes, including online score competitions, define the experience.