Alright, let’s slice into the details of the first Purgatory Trial in *Ninja Gaiden 4*!

*Ninja Gaiden 4*, co-developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, and published by Xbox Game Studios, was released on October 21, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. It introduces a new protagonist, Yakumo, alongside the series’ staple, Ryu Hayabusa.

The Purgatory Trials are optional, high-difficulty combat challenges integrated into the game’s chapters, serving as an evolution of the “Tests of Valor” from previous *Ninja Gaiden* titles. These trials are accessed through hidden, blazing Torii Gates. There are a total of 18 Purgatory Trials throughout the game, with most chapters containing one, except for Chapter 14.

**The 1st Purgatory Trial: Chapter 1 – Bloodsoaked Tokyo**

The very first Purgatory Trial in *Ninja Gaiden 4* is located in Chapter 1: Bloodsoaked Tokyo. To find it:
* After you acquire the Caddis Wire and use it for the first time, you’ll reach a new platform.
* Instead of proceeding by jumping across and using the Caddis Wire again, you need to head to the left.
* Continue past the large, glowing billboard.
* Follow this path to the left and climb up to discover the Purgatory Gate.

**What to Expect in Purgatory Trials:**
Once you enter a Purgatory Trial, you’ll face waves of enemies in a challenge that closely simulates the game’s “Master Ninja” difficulty. These trials are an excellent way to test your combat prowess and earn valuable rewards. Before initiating a trial, you have the option to wager a portion of Yakumo’s health, which in turn increases the rewards (such as NinjaCoin or Weapon EXP) you’ll receive upon successful completion. Don’t worry, any health wagered is restored after you win the trial.

Completing all 18 Purgatory Trials is necessary for unlocking the “Annihilator” trophy/achievement, and they also contribute to the “Challenger of Challenges” trophy/achievement, which can be earned even on the lowest difficulty setting (“Hero”). It’s crucial to complete these trials during your story playthrough, as finishing them through the Challenge Menu will not count towards the “Annihilator” trophy.

So, sharpen your blades and get ready for a brutal but rewarding challenge in Bloodsoaked Tokyo!