Summary
- Game Pass PC players face controller issues with Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, having better luck with a DualSense controller.
- Some solutions include disabling Steam input or avoiding DS4Windows when using Xbox Series controllers.
- The game natively supports DualSense despite its Xbox Series release, showcasing unique controller compatibility issues.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black PC players are experiencing controller issues on Game Pass, but those using a DualSense appear to be getting by just fine, regardless of the hardware. Many gamers were excited to see that Ninja Gaiden 2 Black shadow dropped following the January Xbox Developer Direct presentation. While many enjoy the title on their favorite systems, Game Pass users are running into issues that will likely require a patch as time goes on.
In 2024, Microsoft showed gamers that nearly any device can be an Xbox outside the Nintendo Switch and PS5. Although the PlayStation 5 lacks many Xbox exclusives, that doesn't necessarily mean it or its accessories aren't better at handling games through Xbox services. Ninja Gaiden 2 Black looks like a special case where the DualSense controller is saving the day for some Game Pass players.
2025 Will Be a Huge Year For Ninja Gaiden Fans
This year is already packed with major releases, but Ninja Gaiden fans could be one of the luckiest fan-bases of all in 2025.
Some Game Pass users on PC are reporting that Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is experiencing controller issues, and so far, it seems that the best fix might be a DualSense controller, strangely enough. On Reddit, multiple players have shared that their Xbox Series controllers just don't seem to be working well with their PC, experiencing various problems, including misinputting or altogether failing to recognize the device. However, one of these users plugged in their PS5 DualSense controller, and it worked well. Controller issues don't seem to be impacting players running the title on an Xbox Series or PS5 console, though.
Players Report Game Pass Controller Issues on PC with Ninja Gaiden 2 Black
A different player shared that disabling Steam input fixes the issue for Game Pass users, which appears to be a good general fix for many, but not for every Ninja Gaiden 2 Black player on Game Pass. The issue here seems to be that Ninja Gaiden 2 Black doesn't click with many emulated controllers and that it natively supports the PlayStation 5's DualSense, but considering the title has been released natively on the Xbox Series systems as well, it doesn't explain all aspects of the mishap.
Other gamers note that their problems stem from the use of DS4Windows, an open-source virtual controller emulator made to use DualShock and DualSense controllers on various Windows releases. These players needed to make sure DS4Windows wasn't running and that they were fully closed out of Steam, since having either or both of these applications running seemed to mess with their configurations. Although this title may be one of the most exciting results of the January Xbox Developer Direct, PlayStation's DualSense seems to be coming in clutch for some.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 81 /100 Critics Rec: 93%
- Released
- January 23, 2025
- ESRB
- M For Mature 17+ // Intense Violence, Blood and Gore, Suggestive Themes, Partial Nudity, Strong Language
- Developer(s)
- Koei Tecmo Games Co., Ltd.
- Publisher(s)
- Koei Tecmo Games Co., Ltd.
WHERE TO PLAY
Take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, a ninja who has inherited the legendary “Dragon Sword” and takes on battles across the world, in this graphic remaster of the popular high-speed ninja action title that returns after 15 years!
1. The world of “NINJA GAIDEN 2” remastered with rich visuals!
The stages, characters, effects, and lighting have been completely redesigned and remastered to provide realistic visuals. Unreal Engine 5 has been utilized to create stunning current-generation graphics, allowing players to immerse themselves more deeply in the story's world.
2. High-speed x violent action further evolved with the latest graphic expressions!
Gore elements such as dismemberment and blood have been remastered to enhance the action experience. Players can enjoy high-speed, violent action using a wide variety of weapons and techniques, including Japanese swords, shurikens, Kusari-gamas, and tonfas.
Note: The dismemberment feature can be toggled on and off in the Options menu.
3. Additional characters, mode for beginners, and elements from subsequent spin-off titles are also included!
This remaster includes additional elements from spin-off titles released after the original. Players can control three additional characters: Momiji, Ayane, and Rachel. The game also includes "HERO PLAY STYLE" mode that provides automatic support in challenging situations, making it accessible for those who may not be confident in their action skills.
- Number of Players
- 1
- PC Release Date
- January 23, 2025
- Xbox Series X|S Release Date
- January 23, 2025
- PS5 Release Date
- January 23, 2025
- Platform(s)
- Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC
- X|S Optimized
- Yes
- File Size Xbox Series
- 85.99 GB
