The wait for Team Ninja’s next masocore masterpiece is almost over. Players ranging from series veterans who have mastered every stance to newcomers ready to face their first Yokai are shaping up to tackle Nioh 3, which might be the most ambitious entry in the franchise yet. Launching globally on February 6, 2026, this sequel trades the linear mission structure of the past for expansive “open-field” environments and an immersive story that spans multiple eras of Japanese history.
If you’re looking to plan your “sick day” or want to know exactly how to secure that exclusive pre-order armour, you’re in the right place. From exact regional unlock times to the massive 80GB demo currently live on Steam and PS5, we’ve broken down everything you need to know to prepare for the Crucible.
Nioh 3 Release Date and Global Times
Mark your calendars: Nioh 3 launches on February 6, 2026. The game is set for a simultaneous global release. Because the release is synchronized to a single moment worldwide (midnight UTC), that means that some players in the Americas will actually get to jump in on the evening of February 5.
Here is a breakdown of the launch times for the major gaming regions across the globe:
| Region | Release Date | Release Time |
|---|---|---|
| West US (Los Angeles) | February 5, 2026 | 4:00 PM PST |
| East US (New York) | February 5, 2026 | 7:00 PM EST |
| South America (Sao Paulo) | February 5, 2026 | 9:00 PM BRT |
| UK / West Europe (London) | February 6, 2026 | 12:00 AM GMT |
| Central Europe (Berlin / Paris) | February 6, 2026 | 1:00 AM CET |
| Middle East (Dubai) | February 6, 2026 | 4:00 AM GST |
| East Asia (Seoul) | February 6, 2026 | 9:00 AM KST |
| Japan (Tokyo) | February 6, 2026 | 9:00 AM JST |
| East Australia (Sydney) | February 6, 2026 | 11:00 AM AEDT |
Nioh 3 Countdown Clock
If you’re not sure where your time zone fits with the above regions, then check out our handy countdown clock below to see exactly when Nioh 3 releases in your region:
Nioh 3 Platforms
Nioh 3 is launching as a next-gen and PC exclusive. You can find it on:
- PlayStation 5 (with specific optimizations for PS5 Pro)
- PC (via Steam)
At this time, there is no official word on an Xbox Series X|S or Nintendo Switch 2 release, as the franchise has historically remained a console exclusive for Sony.
How to Try Before You Buy: Nioh 3 Demo Details
If you can’t wait until launch day, a playable demo is available right now on both the PlayStation Store for PS5 and Steam for PC! It covers the opening portion of the game, including character creation and a brutal boss fight against Jakotsu-baba.
The best part? Your save data carries over to the full game, so you don't have to redo your character or early progress. Plus, if you complete the demo by February 15, 2026, you'll unlock the exclusive Twin-Snake Helmet for use in the final release.
What’s New? Gameplay and Story
While Nioh 2 was a prequel, Nioh 3 takes us forward, following the grandchild of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Tokugawa Takechiyo, in the early 17th century. The story leans into "time-transcending" elements, where you'll visit different eras like the Sengoku, Heian, and even the Bakumatsu period to purify the mysterious Crucible Realm.
The game introduces a massive shift in combat via two distinct styles. The Samurai Style uses the classic high, mid, and low stances and focuses on hard-hitting martial arts and parries. Conversely, the Ninja Style is a faster, more agile approach that ditches stances for ninja tools and excels in aerial combat. You can switch between these styles freely to adapt to the Yokai threats.
Editions, Pricing, and Pre-order Bonuses
Team Ninja is offering several ways to jump in, ranging from the standard digital experience to a massive collector’s box for the superfans.
- Standard Edition ($69.99): Includes the base game. Digital pre-orders (or early purchases before Feb 20) unlock the Hellfrost Armor set.
- Digital Deluxe Edition ($109.99): Includes the base game, the Season Pass (covering two future story expansions), the Infernal Weapons Set, and special "Netsuke Charm" accessories.
- SteelBook Launch Edition ($69.99): A physical version for PS5 that includes the game and a limited-edition case, plus the Lucky Tanuki and Kusanagi charms.
- Treasure Box (Collector's): Exclusively through the NIS America store, this includes the game, an official artbook, a soundtrack CD, a desk pad, and a Scampuss furball keychain.
By all accounts, Nioh 3 is tailor-made for both seasoned "souls-like" veterans and newcomers looking to get punished by a Yokai. The game aims to be the most ambitious entry yet with its larger, "open-field" environments. So sharpen your katana and prepare to dive in!
