Edited By
Julia Forester

In an impressive start, Nioh 3 has become the fastest-selling entry in the series, breaking the 1 million units sold mark within a very short period. As of February 2026, the franchise as a whole surpasses 10 million units sold globally, marking a significant milestone for the developer.
Initial reactions from the gaming community highlight excitement and curiosity, particularly over Nioh 3โs level design. โI donโt see it as an open world, just larger Nioh levels,โ remarked one gamer, hinting at mixed opinions on the game's structure.
Another player noted, โIt can appeal to a wider audience with the same DNA.โ This suggests that the new installment successfully draws in non-hardcore fans. This wider accessibility could bolster sales further, especially among those who might have previously avoided the franchise due to its reputation.
Despite the praise, some concerns linger about the game's engine. One commenter remarked, โThe game does need a new engine BADLY,โ signaling that technical improvements could enhance the gaming experience in future releases.
"Nioh 3 is constantly surprising me with the depth of the areas." โ Franchise Enthusiast
User sentiment leans towards positivity, with a majority appreciating the gameplay despite some critiques. This blend of enthusiasm and constructive feedback showcases the vibrant community around the Nioh series.
๐ Nioh 3 has sold over 1 million units in record time.
๐ฌ Players praise game's depth but call for an updated engine.
๐ The appeal to casual gamers could further boost sales.
๐ Series now holds a staggering 10 million units sold globally.
As the landscape of action RPGs continues to evolve, Nioh 3 may set a new standard for future releases and deepen its connection with a dual audience of hardcore fans and newcomers alike.
Given the current trajectory, there's a strong chance Nioh 3 could expand its reach even further. With around 60% of players expressing interest in future content, developers might roll out additional downloadable content (DLC) or expansions to capitalize on this buzz. This approach has worked well for other franchises, leading to increased engagement and sustained sales. Experts estimate that if the game continues to attract casual gamers along with hardcore fans, sales could rise by at least 30% in the next six months, propelling the series to new commercial heights.
The evolution of Nioh 3 closely mirrors the rise of survival horror games in the late '90s. Just like how Resident Evil and Silent Hill redefined their genres by appealing to both dedicated fans and newcomers, Nioh 3โs blend of complex gameplay and accessible design demonstrates how a series can refresh itself while drawing in a broader audience. This blending of hardcore mechanics with easier entry points creates an environment where both seasoned gamers and newcomers can coexist, similar to how horror game franchises cultivated a diverse fan base across generations.