Nioh 3 Hell Rising DLC Launches Next Month: Release Date and Details

Koei Tecmo has announced that Nioh 3 is receiving its first major expansion next month, titled Hell Rising. Arriving on August 19, 2026, the DLC kicks off a two-part story arc that takes players to a decimated version of the Japanese capital Edo during the Keian era, which spans from 1648 to 1652.

Quick Facts

• Release Date: August 19, 2026
• Developer/Publisher: Koei Tecmo
• Platforms: Multi-Platform (PC, PlayStation 5)
• Expansion Scope: First of two major DLCs included in the Nioh 3 season pass (followed by Bloody Insurrection)

Plot and Setting in Keian Era Edo

The narrative of Hell Rising follows the protagonist and appointed shogun, Takechiyo, who journeys through time after being led to future Edo by an unknown yokai met in a dream. Following the death of the future Takechiyo, the era of peace has ended, and Edo has been retaken by the Crucible. Takechiyo must navigate a plot revolving around Spirit Stones and an enemy harboring a strong resentment towards the shogunate, aided by the one-eyed swordsman Yagyu Jubei and a Spanish envoy named Rodrigo.

New Weapons and Customization Options

To deal with the tougher threats roaming Edo, the expansion introduces a new weapon combo: the hoko and shield. Usable in both samurai and ninja styles, the weapon supports defensive maneuvers with the shield while attacking with the short spear, alongside tactical moves like flinging the shield at enemies. Players can also pair these additions with new outfits inspired by the expansion's Spanish alchemists.

New Difficulty and Multiplayer Picture Scrolls

Hell Rising introduces a high-risk, high-reward difficulty option called The Enlightened One's Journey. This setting randomly assigns curse buffs to certain enemies, making encounters significantly more challenging while guaranteeing drops of powerful items of divine rarity.

For players seeking custom combat scenarios or practice, the update adds the Hundred Demon Realms Picture Scrolls. These items allow users to set up custom fights to tackle solo or with friends via multiplayer.