Nioh 3 emerges as a strong open-world contender to Elden Ring

Nioh 3 is presented as an open-world soulslike overflowing with samurai, ninjas, and demons, and PC Gamer's review calls it one of the best in the genre and a serious contender to Elden Ring. The game launches February 6, 2026, with an expected price of $70 / £65.

Combat is highlighted as the standout, with 14 melee weapon types, deep customisable movesets and three unique movesets per weapon, free respecs, and returning systems like Yokai shifting (here called Living Artifact). The game also introduces Style Shift, which splits play between samurai style—three stances, ki pulse and a new deflect parry—and ninja style—dodging, aerial combos and jutsu—encouraging players to swap forms in the heat of battle.

The move to a mostly open world comprises four large, independent maps and is seen as a clear improvement over the previous game's recycled locations, though the reviewer notes the maps can feel densely packed with collectibles and activities.

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