If you’ve ever fantasized about strolling through the seemingly deserted streets of ancient Japan, embodying the role of a skilled samurai wielding a razor-sharp katana, this collection of the finest samurai games on the PS4 will bring that dream to life.
For millennia, samurai have been known as cool warriors, capable of taking on various adversaries without breaking a sweat. They’re rad and awesome. That radness has influenced the creation of some of the best films and TV shows ever made. This influence, however, was not limited to the film industry. In fact, it sliced its way into the gaming industry, spawning some of the greatest Samurai games ever created.
Now, don your Kimono, grab the katana and prepare to immerse yourself in the art of becoming an honourable samurai. Or, you can embark on an exciting virtual journey by exploring this curated list of the finest samurai games available on the PlayStation 4. This list comprises popular, underrated and also retro-inspired games in case you want to dive into the nostalgia train.
 | Ghost of Tsushima2020 |   |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date July 17, 2020 | |
 | Developer Sucker Punch Productions |
 | Publisher PlayStation Studios |
| Genre Open World | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2020-07-17 |          |
Ghost of Tsushima portrays the events of the initial Mongol invasion of Japan in 1274, specifically focusing on the landing of the Mongols on Tsushima Island. The game’s high level of historical accuracy and the incorporation of thought-provoking cutscenes have not only impressed players worldwide but have also left the Japanese themselves amazed at how a Western company could handle such a significant moment in their history.
As you venture into the game’s story, you step into the role of Jin Sakai, who embarks on a journey to become a formidable samurai in order to counter the Mongols’ ambitions and tirelessly strive for the restoration of peace in Japan. Ghost of Tsushima has garnered praise from industry figures, including Nagoshi Toshihiro, the creator of Yakuza, who commended the game for its precise portrayal of the samurai legacy.
 | Like a Dragon: Ishin!2023 Remake リュ が 如く 維新 極み (Ryu ga gotoku ishin kiwami) |     |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date February 21, 2023 Initial Release: February 22, 2014 | |
 | Developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
 | Publisher SEGA |
 | Franchise Yakuza |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2023-02-21 |  |
Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a complete remake of the previously exclusive-to-Japan title, Ryu Ga Gotoku Ishin! The remake offers PlayStation 4 owners stunning updated visuals, a plethora of new content to explore, and enhanced controls that will surely delight hack-and-slash enthusiasts.
While some may think that you assume the role of the iconic Dragon of Dojima, that is not the case in this spin-off instalment. Instead, the game’s story revolves around a young samurai named Sakamoto Ryoma, drawing inspiration from the historical figure who lived during Japan’s Bakumatsu era. This fascinating period is renowned for its action, and conspiracies, and offers a thoroughly enjoyable backdrop to explore within the game.
 | Wo Long™ Fallen Dynasty2023 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date March 03, 2023 | |
 | Developer Koei Tecmo |
| Publisher Koei Tecmo |
| Genre Action RPG | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Concept Historical | |
| Players Online Co-Op, Online PvP, Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2023-03-03 |    |
In Wo Long Fallen Dynasty, players embark on a challenging souls-like adventure, although it is not as unforgiving as Koei Tecmo‘s popular Nioh series. Within a backdrop of intense conflict, you discover that you possess the power to bring an end to the chaos. Throughout your journey, you will face formidable historical figures and Chinese mythological creatures corrupted by Demonic Qi.
Wo Long Fallen Dynasty encompasses the familiar elements you’ve come to expect from a souls-like game: challenging enemies, high stakes upon death, managing stamina, and more. However, akin to Sekiro, the game encourages players to find a delicate balance between offensive and defensive strategies in combat. You can choose to evade enemy strikes with nimble dodges or display courage by skillfully parrying their attacks. The choice between evading and parrying adds an additional layer of tactical decision-making to the intense battles.
 | Samurai Warriors® 52021 戦国無双５ (Sengoku Musou 5) |  |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date June 24, 2021 | |
 | Developer Omega Force |
| Publisher Koei Tecmo |
| Franchise Dynasty Warriors | |
| Genre Musou | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Online Co-Op, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2021-06-24 |    |
| 2021-07-27 |   |
Samurai Warriors began as a little series on the PlayStation 2. The game, however, turned into a frenzied experience with each consecutive release, allowing players to destroy hordes of opponents on screen. Samurai Warriors 5 elevates the series by introducing huge on-screen foes and is largely recognized as one of the franchise’s best sequels.
In Samurai Warriors 5, players can select from a broad cast of characters, each with their own distinct backstory, however, the differences in plots are minor. This game is designed for individuals looking for a mindless and exhilarating experience in which they can unleash their talents to indiscriminately slash through waves of enemies like a lawnmower. It’s even more fun to play with a friend in split-screen Co-Op mode.
 | Sekiro™ Shadows Die Twice2019 セキロ：シャドウズ ダイ トゥワイス (Sekiro: Shadōzu Dai Towaisu) | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date March 22, 2019 | |
 | Developer FromSoftware |
 | Publisher Activision |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Ninja | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2019-03-22 |            |
While not a classic samurai game, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice casts players as a lone shinobi named Wolf. Despite this distinction, the game features formidable samurai warriors as opponents that players must defeat. The title by FromSoftware focuses on melee combat, emphasizing the significance of deflecting enemy blows and parrying, effectively portraying the essence of samurai swordsmanship.
Sekiro’s gameplay can be compared to Nioh, yet both games have significant variances. One thing they all have in common is a strong emphasis on fighting enemies’ persistent moves, encouraging players to plan every move carefully because even a single mistake might result in a quick death.
-35x35.png){kind=icon} | Onimusha: Warlords2001 鬼武者 (on-imusha) |   |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date January 25, 2001 | |
 | Developer Capcom |
| Publisher Capcom |
 | Franchise Onimusha |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2018-12-20 |  |
| 2019-01-15 | |
Onimusha: Warlords, a title in Capcom’s highly successful series, was a standout entry that now stands as a relic of the past. It is unfortunate that the franchise has faded away, as it provided countless hours of immersive gameplay long before the popularity of Devil May Cry.
As the valiant samurai Samanosuke Akechi, you set out on a treacherous journey to rescue Princess Yuki from the clutches of the malevolent Genma, a demonic force. Equipped with a mystical gauntlet capable of absorbing the souls of fallen enemies, as well as an arsenal of powerful and otherworldly weapons, you unleash your samurai prowess to cleave through adversaries with relentless determination.
 | Samurai Shodown2019 サムライスピリッツ (Samurai Supirittsu) |    |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date June 25, 2019 | |
 | Developer SNK |
| Publisher SNK |
| Franchise Samurai Shodown | |
| Genre 2D Fighting | |
| Players 1v1, Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2019-06-25 | |
| 2019-06-27 | |
Samurai Shodown may not transport you to the chaotic outskirts of a battlefield or place you in the shoes of a wandering samurai, but it does challenge your samurai abilities by pitting you against formidable opponents. As a classic 2D fighting game, Samurai Shodown traces its origins all the way back to 1993 when it first debuted in arcades.
Challenge many adversaries to a one-on-one fight, or call a friend to join in and see who’s better at landing good punches. If you like 2D fighting games, and are looking for an excellent co-op game, give Samurai Shodown a go!
 | Onechanbara Z2: Chaos2014 お姉チャンバラZ2 ～カオス～ (OneeChanbara Z2) | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date October 30, 2014 | |
 | Developer Tamsoft |
 | Publisher D3 Publisher |
 | Franchise Onechanbara |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Zombie | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2014-10-30 | |
| 2014-12-11 | |
| 2015-07-21 | |
| 2015-08-28 | |
| 2018-08-28 | |
Onechanbara Z2 Chaos serves as the follow-up to the previously Japan-exclusive title, Onechanbara Z Kagura. In both games, players assume the role of a bikini-clad samurai girl dedicated to eradicating hordes of zombies, all in an effort to bring an end to the ongoing apocalypse.
Plunge yourself in the stylish and action-packed world of Onechanbara Z2 Chaos, where you assume the roles of multiple captivating heroines and engage in zombie-slaying mayhem. With flair and confidence, taunt the undead adversaries before gracefully dispatching them to their final resting place (even though they’re already deceased!). If you’re a fan of hack-and-slash games like Devil May Cry and Bayonetta, it’s an absolute must to experience the thrilling gameplay of Onechanbara Z2 Chaos.
 | Ganryu™2 Hakuma Kojiro2022 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date March 09, 2022 | |
 | Developer Storybird Games |
 | Publisher Just For Games |
| Genre 2D Platformer | |
| Graphics 16-Bit | |
| Perspective Side Scroller | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Canada |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2022-03-09 | |
| 2022-04-22 |  |
Ganryu 2, the sequel to the original 1999 arcade side-scrolling game that you may not be familiar with, offers a rejuvenated experience with its beautiful 2D pixel art graphics. The game’s solid and fast-paced action, reminiscent of the famous classics Shinobi and Strider, will undoubtedly attract samurai aficionados.
Unleash your katana, dive into action, and start slicing enemies from right to left. Jump across corners and feel the adrenaline rush of being a samurai in this awesome 2D hidden gem.They don’t make a lot of these great 2D hack-and-slash games these days, so grab your chance while you can!
 | Onee Chanbara Origin2019 お姉チャンバラORIGIN (OnēChanbara ORIGIN) | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date December 05, 2019 | |
| Developer Tamsoft |
| Publisher D3 Publisher |
| Franchise Onechanbara |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2019-12-05 | |
| 2020-09-24 | |
| 2020-10-14 | |
Oneechanbara Origin breathes new life into the original PS2 releases of the first two Onechanbara games. This remake offers a new perspective with improved visuals, improved hacking and slashing action, and an enthralling cel-shaded graphical style that suits the game’s ambience.
Oneechanbara Origin is a treat for hack-and-slash enthusiasts, particularly those with a passion for samurai games. Like its predecessor, Z2 Chaos, this game allows you to seamlessly switch between two playable characters, enabling you to execute stylish combos with precision. On top of that, the ability to transform into a formidable demonic form adds an extra layer of excitement as you relentlessly slice through hordes of zombies.
 | Trek to Yomi2022 |  |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date May 05, 2022 | |
 | Developer Flying Wild Hog |
 | Publisher Devolver Digital |
| Genre Action Adventure | |
| Graphics 2D | |
| Perspective Side Scroller | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Poland |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2022-05-05 | |
| 2022-09-30 | |
| 2023-05-05 |  |
Trek to Yomi is the captivating story of Hiroki, a young swordsman seeking vengeance after his village is razed to the ground. Join him on a perilous quest through the Japanese underworld known as Yomi, where he must confront his inner demons in order to forge ahead.
In Trek to Yomi, developed by Leonard Menchiari with support from Flying Wild Hog, the entire experience unfolds in captivating black-and-white visuals. This artistic decision immerses players in the atmospheric and treacherous underworld. Every corner brims with danger, but with the right skills, you can navigate the challenges seamlessly.
 | Shadow Warrior2013 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date September 26, 2013 | |
| Developer Flying Wild Hog |
| Publisher Devolver Digital |
 | Franchise Shadow Warrior |
| Genre FPS | |
| Perspective First-Person | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Poland |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2014-10-21 | |
| 2014-10-23 |   |
| 2014-10-24 | |
Shadow Warrior is like the ultimate shotgun wedding between all the classic shooters you grew up with and Duke Nukem, sprinkled with a generous dose of crazy humour on top. As players step into the shoes of Lo Wang, he’s on a mission to make a bang for himself… quite literally! With his trusty blade, Lo Wang slices and dices through hordes of zombies, while blasting away tons of enemies with an arsenal of over-the-top weapons.
But that’s not all! Along the way, he’ll unleash a barrage of wacky jokes that will have you laughing your way through the chaos. Get ready for a wild ride that combines non-stop action with a side dish of hilarious shenanigans in Shadow Warrior.
 | For Honor™2017 |  |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date February 14, 2017 | |
 | Developer Ubisoft |
| Publisher Ubisoft |
| Genre MOBA | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Medieval | |
| Players Online PvP | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin France |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2017-02-14 | |
For Honor, a 2017 action game created and distributed by Ubisoft, provides a really unforgettable experience. While it is not only about samurai, it does allow players to take on the roles of a number of historical combatants, including Vikings, knights, ancient Chinese warriors, and, of course, samurai.
Thanks to the Ubisoft Anvil engine, For Honor boasts a realistic feel that immerses players in intense and thrilling battles. The game’s diverse fighting styles contribute to an excellent playthrough. Among other factions, the samurai stand out in a league of their own. They exhibit remarkable speed, strength, and deadly precision, making them formidable opponents who can swiftly subdue their opponents.
 | Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time2020 サムライジャック：時空の戦い (Samurai Jakku: Jikū no Tatakai) |  |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date August 21, 2020 | |
 | Developer Soleil |
 | Publisher Adult Swim Games |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2020-08-21 | |
| 2021-01-21 | |
Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time took the gaming community by surprise, defying expectations of being just another forgettable cash-grab title (Looking at you, The Shadow of Aku). It has emerged as the definitive Samurai Jack game, leaving fans hopeful that its modest success will inspire Adult Swim Games to create a game adaptation of the entire series in the future.
The gameplay is remarkably solid, offering a diverse range of combos, weapons, and even guns that Jack can discover throughout his journey. Fans of Samurai Jack are in for a truly memorable experience. An interesting fact is that Tomonobu Itagaki, the creative mind behind the Ninja Gaiden reboot, played a role in the development of this game. This intriguing connection may serve as an added incentive to give it a try.
 | Sengoku Basara 4: Sumeragi2015 Content Update | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date July 23, 2015 Initial Release: January 23, 2014 | |
| Developer Capcom |
| Publisher Capcom |
| Genre Hack & Slash | |
| Players Multiplayer, Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2015-07-23 | |
Sengoku Basara represents Capcom’s experimental take on the Musou genre, known for its large-scale battles and waves of enemies to conquer. While the trilogy was localized for Western audiences, the fourth instalment remains exclusive to Japan.
Similar to other Musou titles developed by Omega Force, the gameplay in Sengoku Basara 4 revolves around engaging hordes of enemies, utilizing a combination of attacks to overcome them. Stylish and skilful play is rewarded with increased gold or enhanced power. While retaining core mechanics from its predecessors, the fourth entry also introduces new elements. Fans of hack-and-slash games, particularly those with a penchant for samurai themes, will undoubtedly be drawn to this title, especially if they are able to understand the Japanese language.
 | Xuan-Yuan Sword 72020 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date October 28, 2020 | |
 | Developer Sofstar Entertainment |
| Publisher Sofstar Entertainment |
| Genre Action RPG | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Historical | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Taiwan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2020-10-29 |  |
| 2020-12-20 | |
| 2021-09-29 | |
| 2021-10-12 | |
Xuan Yuan Sword 7, a continuation of the long-running franchise that dates back to 1990, has made its triumphant return with its latest iteration. Amidst the bustling realm of indie hack-and-slash games, this instalment has gracefully carved out its own place. Ultimately, this latest instalment of Xuan Yuan Sword 7 has masterfully captured the attention and sparked the interest of countless enthusiasts within the genre.
In this action RPG, the game thrusts you into the rich Chinese history. Players embark on a quest with Taishi Zhao, a courageous swordsman who finds himself embroiled in a tragic fate. To safeguard his family and those close to him, he embarks on a journey to discover the truth.
 | Nioh Collection2021 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date February 04, 2021 | |
 | Developer Team Ninja |
 | Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Genre Action RPG | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Online Co-Op, Online PvP, Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2021-02-05 | |
The Nioh Collection is an intriguing mash-up of the original Nioh game and its exhilarating sequel, remastered and packed together for a thoroughly enjoyable trip. Nioh, like the popular Dark Souls trilogy, does not allow for a leisurely stroll across its environment.
Instead, it acts as an uncompromising crucible, continually testing your abilities and compelling you to adapt to ever-increasing obstacles. The trials become more difficult as you dive deeper into the game’s relentless universe, requiring your focus and determination to tackle all the odds.
 | Inked: A Tale of Love2018 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date April 26, 2018 | |
 | Developer Somnium Games |
 | Publisher Pixmain |
| Genre Action Adventure | |
| Graphics 2D | |
| Perspective Isometric | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Hand-Drawn | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Croatia |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2021-09-10 | |
| 2023-04-21 |  |
Inked: A Tale of Love, crafted by the Croatian-based developer Somium Games, is a truly breathtaking experience. This game radiates beauty in every aspect, boasting stunning hand-drawn visuals that capture the imagination. The intricate details, combined with mesmerizing effects, create a feast for the eyes. Accompanied by incredible soundtracks, Inked immerses players in a world that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is emotionally captivating.
Somium Games’ developers most likely played a lot of old top-down samurai games before deciding to create their own individual game that captures the creative minds of the indie scene. A quality that almost everyone admires in independent developers.
 | Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun2016 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date December 06, 2016 | |
 | Developer Mimimi Games |
| Publisher Mimimi Games |
| Genre RTS | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Germany |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2016-12-06 | |
Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun will thoroughly test your strategic skills, as the challenges within the game can become incredibly intense and demanding. Players who’ve already had a blast with titles such as the Desperados, Commandos franchises and other real-time tactics will find plenty to appreciate about Shadow Tactics.
 | The Samurai Collection: QUByte Classics2021 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date June 24, 2021 | |
 | Developer Piko Interactive |
 | Publisher QUByte Interactive |
| Genre 2D Platformer | |
| Graphics 16-Bit | |
| Perspective Side Scroller | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Samurai | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin United States |
| PS4 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2022-11-02 | |
The Samurai Collection brings together two captivating games from a bygone era of video games, now presented in high-definition visuals for both nostalgic players and newcomers alike.
In this 2D side-scrolling platformer, players will assume the role of a fearless samurai swordsman as they slay their way through several obstacles with a devastating force. If you have a fondness for classics like the original Shinobi, this compilation is sure to ignite your love for the genre once again.
Thank you for reading. I’ll see you at the dojo for more games, that is, if we can make it without being ambushed by a mischievous bunch of Ronin. Let’s hope they’re in a playful mood and not looking for a sword fight!
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FreeckyCake
I'm just your average gamer who enjoys hunting hidden gems and underrated games. My love for Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams is like a truck and I recommend that you play it.
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