Team Ninja are gearing up for a major comeback as the iconic series hits a milestone year.
A new Dead or Alive instalment is in development. This was announced at the PlayStation State of Play on 13 February (SGT) by Yosuke Hayashi, the producer of the Dead or Alive series.
“Today I’m here to announce the return of Dead or Alive with a new update! A game,” Hayashi said during the presentation, before explaining that the team are aiming to make this version more accessible and more rewarding for both longtime fans and newcomers. He added that the game will include PlayStation 5 upgrades, additional cosmetic content, and ongoing post-launch support.
confirmed that Dead or Alive 6 Last Round is building on the foundations of the original Dead or Alive 6, combining returning DLC fighters, next-gen upgrades, fresh costumes, and a revamped photo mode into one complete package.
The full release is scheduled for 25 June 2026, exclusively on PS5.
In a PlayStation Blog post released alongside the reveal, Team Ninja reflected on the franchise’s long history and future plans. For the past few years, one of the most common questions the studio has received has been what’s happening with Dead or Alive. Hayashi explained that the series is “very much alive and kicking,” and that the 30th anniversary felt like the perfect moment to make several major announcements.
Dead or Alive 6 Last Round brings the series back with upgrades and new content
At launch, Dead or Alive 6 Last Round will feature 29 playable characters, combining 24 fighters from the original release with five additional DLC characters from DOA6. Fan favourites such as Kasumi and Marie Rose are set to receive five costumes each, expanding customisation options across the roster.
The game has also been optimised for modern hardware, bringing smoother performance and visual improvements designed to take full advantage of the PlayStation 5. Alongside these upgrades, a brand-new photo mode has been added, allowing players to capture dramatic in-game moments from every angle, whether mid-combo or in the middle of a cinematic finisher.
According to Team Ninja, more characters and costumes are already planned for release through future updates, with further details to be revealed closer to launch.
Free-to-play version launches alongside the full game
One of the biggest announcements is the introduction of a free-to-play version, launching on the same day as the full release. This version is designed as a low-barrier way for new players to jump in, while still offering meaningful access to core features.
At launch, the free-to-play edition will include four popular characters: Kasumi, NiCO, Marie Rose, and Honoka. Players will be able to take part in online battles against others around the world, including those playing the full version, as well as access online modes such as DOA Quest and DOA Central. The new photo mode will also be fully available, giving free players a taste of the game’s creative tools.
Team Ninja said the goal is to let everyone try the game at no cost, whether they are long-time fans or complete newcomers to fighting games, encouraging players to get hands-on before deciding to upgrade.
Beyond Dead or Alive 6 Last Round, the team also confirmed they are already hard at work on the next mainline Dead or Alive title, though specific details remain under wraps for now. More information is expected to be shared at a later date.
