Koei Tecmo and Team NINJA have launched a playable demo for Nioh 3, giving players their first hands-on experience with the dark samurai action RPG ahead of its February 6 launch. The demo is available now on PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam, featuring full character customization and a challenging boss encounter that showcases the game's refined combat mechanics.
Create your own samurai warrior
The demo offers a substantial slice of the game's opening content, complete with online multiplayer support for up to three players. What most players miss is that your progress isn't wasted,everything you accomplish in the demo carries over to the full version when it launches next week.
What's Included in the Demo
The demo lets you experience the early stages of Nioh 3's campaign, taking on the role of Tokugawa Takechiyo, grandchild of the legendary Tokugawa Ieyasu. Here's what you can access:
- Full character customization system
- Solo and online co-op gameplay (up to 3 players)
- Dual combat styles: Samurai and Ninja
- Boss battle against Jakotsu-baba
- Open field exploration mechanics
Face the fearsome Jakotsu-baba
The key here is the seamless combat style switching. You can instantly transition between the aggressive Samurai Style for head-on confrontations and the nimble Ninja Style for quick movements and Ninjutsu techniques. This dual approach represents a significant evolution from previous entries in the series.
Limited-Time Reward for Early Completers
Players who complete the demo by February 15, 2026 will receive the Twin-Snake Helmet as a bonus item in the full game. Pro tip: this same helmet can also be obtained by defeating Jakotsu-baba in the full release by the same date, after which it becomes a rare drop.
Important
The demo requires an online connection and cannot be played offline. You'll need to use the same PlayStation Network account and console to transfer your save data to the full game.
How Save Data Transfer Works
Your demo progress automatically carries over when you launch the full version of Nioh 3, but there are specific requirements:
- Play the full game on the same console where demo data is saved
- Use the same PlayStation Network account for both versions
- Don't start the full game before you're ready,once you create save data in the retail version, the demo becomes inaccessible
The demo save transfer applies to both character progression and the completion bonus. If you already completed the earlier Alpha Demo, you won't receive a duplicate helmet,the reward is identical across both testing phases.
What to Expect in the Full Game
Nioh 3 launches February 6, 2026 on PS5 and PC via Steam. The game expands on the series' signature difficulty with new open field environments that balance exploration freedom with the franchise's trademark tension.
Nioh 3 Demo Available Now
The setting takes place during Japan's Warring States period, where you'll navigate through villages plagued by darkness and confront the mysterious threat known as "the Crucible." The open field design represents a departure from the more linear structure of previous games, offering players more agency in how they approach encounters with yokai and human enemies.
Pre-Order Editions and Bonuses
Several editions are available for pre-order:
- Standard Edition ($69.99): Base game plus early purchase bonus
- Digital Deluxe Edition ($109.99): Includes Season Pass, exclusive netsuke charms, and Infernal Weapons Set (14 types)
- SteelBook Launch Edition: Physical edition with two exclusive DLC items
- Treasure Box Edition (NIS America Store exclusive): Artbook, soundtrack CD, desk pad, and Scampuss Furball Netsuke Charm keychain
All editions include an early purchase bonus redeemable on PlayStation Store and Steam for a limited time after launch. The game features Japanese and English voice options, with text support in English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Nioh 3 demo progress carry over to the full game? Yes, all progress made in the demo automatically transfers to the full version when you launch it on the same console using the same PlayStation Network account. Character customization, gameplay progress, and unlocked items will be preserved.
How do I get the Twin-Snake Helmet in Nioh 3? Complete the demo by February 15, 2026, or defeat Jakotsu-baba in the full game by the same date. After February 15, the helmet becomes a rare drop from the boss instead of a guaranteed reward.
Can I play the Nioh 3 demo offline? No, the demo requires an online connection to play. While you can experience the content solo, an internet connection is mandatory for accessing the demo version.
What platforms is the Nioh 3 demo available on? The demo is currently available on PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam. Both versions support online co-op for up to three players and feature identical content and progression systems.
