Get ready to have your gaming world turned upside down—a new PS5 exclusive has just dropped, and it’s already sparking conversations about being the 2026 Game of the Year. But here’s where it gets controversial: Nioh 3, the latest installment in Team Ninja’s beloved action-RPG series, is not just another sequel—it’s a game-changer that’s dividing opinions and setting new standards. Is it truly the best in the franchise, or is the hype overblown? Let’s dive in.
Today marks the release of Nioh 3 exclusively on PlayStation 5, and the reviews are nothing short of spectacular. On OpenCritic, the game boasts an impressive 87 rating, with a staggering 95% of critics recommending it. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just the scores that matter—it’s why critics are raving about it. Eurogamer’s Dom Peppiatt awarded it a 4 out of 5, praising its innovation, stating, ‘Nioh 3 takes an already exceptional ‘masocore’ series and elevates it to new heights.’ Meanwhile, Game Rant’s Josh Cotts gave it a 9 out of 10, highlighting its groundbreaking movement mechanics and player freedom—elements that even die-hard fans might find surprisingly fresh.
VG247 echoed this sentiment with a 4 out of 5, calling it ‘a confident evolution of a nearly decade-old formula, expertly crafted by Team Ninja.’ PlayStation Lifestyle’s Tyler Treese went a step further, giving it a 9 out of 10 and declaring it ‘the best game yet in the franchise.’ He praised its varied combat, rewarding exploration, and seamless blend of solo and co-op play. But here’s the question: does Nioh 3 truly deserve all the praise, or are we overlooking its flaws in the excitement?
Set after the events of the first two games, Nioh 3 puts players in the shoes of Tokugawa Takechiyo, the grandchild of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The game stays true to the series’ roots, pitting you against yokai and supernatural foes in a blend of historical and fantastical Japan. While the first two games were massive hits—with the series selling over 8 million units worldwide—Nioh 3 aims to push the boundaries even further. But is it too ambitious? Some players argue that the changes might alienate longtime fans, while others believe it’s exactly what the series needed to stay relevant.
What’s undeniable is that Nioh 3 is a technical and artistic achievement, showcasing the PS5’s capabilities with stunning visuals and fluid gameplay. Yet, the real debate lies in its design choices. Does its emphasis on player freedom and movement dilute the series’ signature challenge, or does it enhance it? We want to hear from you: Is Nioh 3 a worthy contender for 2026’s Game of the Year, or is the hype just that—hype? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t hold back—this is one discussion you won’t want to miss!
