Nioh 3 has solidified its place as a standout soulslike title, and the arrival of the Hell Rising expansion only deepens the experience. As the first chapter of a two-part DLC series, it introduces fresh narrative layers and mechanical depth. To gain deeper insight, we spoke with the creative minds behind the project: game directors Masaki Fujita and Atsushi Takahashi, along with producer Kohei Shibata.

The Narrative Evolution

Hell Rising acts as a direct continuation of the main game’s conclusion. According to game director Masaki Fujita, players must have completed the base campaign to engage with this content. The story delves into the aftermath of the protagonist's rise to the position of Shogun, exploring the political turmoil and the roles played by those within the shogunate.

A notable highlight is the inclusion of the legendary historical figure Yagyu Jubei. Interestingly, the developers have placed the DLC in 1651, a year following the historical figure's death, adding a layer of intrigue to the timeline. Fujita explained that the setting serves as a bridge, allowing players to witness the long-term consequences—both positive and negative—of the protagonist's reign, a theme that will conclude in the second part of the DLC.

Furthermore, the team emphasized their attention to atmosphere. Fujita noted, «This is the first time in the series we've had a stage that truly feels like the Edo period. We've scattered little Edo-period details throughout, and I'm most looking forward to seeing how players react to them.»

Mastering the Hoko and Shield

The expansion introduces a dynamic new weapon archetype: the Hoko and Shield. Game director Atsushi Takahashi detailed the two variations:

  • Hoko and Shield: Focused on integrating defense with offense. It allows players to parry incoming strikes and retaliate immediately, effectively negating damage rather than just blocking it.
  • Ninja Hoko and Shield: A more agile, versatile version that enables aerial maneuvers, throws, and complex combos that keep adversaries off balance.

Takahashi described this as a «high-risk, high-reward» playstyle designed for players looking to master the game's more formidable encounters.

Additional Features and Future Updates

Beyond combat, Hell Rising introduces:

  • Enlightened One’s Journey: A new tier for the third playthrough.
  • Hundred Demon Realms Picture Scroll: A substantial expansion of the classic picture scroll mode.
  • Nioh Story Fragments: New collectibles, including letters and notes, that offer a deeper dive into the culture of the Edo period and the inner lives of the characters.

Regarding performance, particularly on PC, Fujita stated that while there is no fixed schedule, the team is actively investigating ways to enhance stability and player comfort in future updates.

When asked about a potential release on the Nintendo Switch 2, producer Kohei Shibata declined to comment on Nioh 3 specifically, but pointed toward the upcoming release of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition for the console as a primary focus for the studio.