Unlocking all DLC characters in Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 can feel confusing at first, especially because the game separates its additional content across multiple packs, expansions, and editions. Unlike the base roster, which unlocks naturally through story progression, DLC fighters require specific purchases, installations, and sometimes in-game progression to access fully.
The game received several post-launch updates, including the major Road to Boruto expansion, which introduced new characters, story missions, and gameplay mechanics tied to the Boruto era. As a result, unlocking all DLC characters is not just about buying content but also understanding how each pack works and how the game integrates those fighters into its system.
This guide breaks down exactly how to unlock every DLC character in Ultimate Ninja Storm 4, including what you need to purchase, how to access them in-game, and what conditions must be met before they appear on your roster. If you are trying to complete your character selection screen or explore the full Storm experience, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Understanding how DLC works in Ultimate Ninja Storm 4
Before unlocking characters, it is important to understand how DLC functions in Storm 4. Unlike some fighting games where DLC characters instantly appear after purchase, Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 sometimes requires additional steps such as downloading compatibility data or completing certain story content.
The game’s DLC is divided into smaller packs and one major expansion. Early DLC packs mostly focused on costumes, scenario missions, and a few bonus characters. Later, the Road to Boruto expansion significantly expanded the roster by introducing characters from the Boruto storyline, including new versions of Naruto, Sasuke, and entirely new fighters.
According to official Bandai Namco release information, the expansion was designed as a complete story continuation rather than just a character pack. This means some characters are tied directly to the expansion’s story progression rather than being instantly unlocked. (en.wikipedia.org)
Understanding this structure helps avoid confusion when characters do not appear immediately after installation.
DLC characters available in the game
Storm 4’s DLC roster mainly comes from the Road to Boruto expansion, along with a few additional bonus characters. The most notable additions include Boruto Uzumaki, Sarada Uchiha, Mitsuki, and upgraded versions of Naruto and Sasuke from the Boruto era.
The expansion also introduces powerful antagonists such as Momoshiki Otsutsuki and Kinshiki Otsutsuki. These characters are particularly important because they bring entirely new movesets and mechanics that differ from traditional Naruto Shippuden fighters.
In addition to these, some pre-order bonuses and deluxe editions included early access to certain characters or alternate costumes. However, most modern versions of the game bundle these into a single package, making it easier for new players to access the full roster.
Because of this, the exact unlocking process may vary slightly depending on which edition of the game you own.
How to unlock characters from the Road to Boruto expansion
The majority of DLC characters are unlocked through the Road to Boruto expansion. After purchasing and installing the expansion, players must access the new story mode from the main menu.
The Boruto storyline follows events from Boruto: Naruto the Movie and introduces the next generation of shinobi. As you progress through this story, key characters like Boruto, Sarada, and Mitsuki become available for use in Free Battle mode.
Unlike traditional unlock systems, these characters are tied directly to story completion milestones. This means you cannot access the full DLC roster immediately after starting the expansion. Instead, you must play through the narrative to unlock them gradually.
This design encourages players to experience the Boruto storyline rather than skipping straight to multiplayer or free battle modes.
Unlocking Momoshiki and Kinshiki
Among the most sought-after DLC characters are Momoshiki and Kinshiki Otsutsuki. These two fighters are unlocked later in the Road to Boruto storyline and are tied to major boss battles within the expansion.
To unlock them, players must progress through the story until reaching the climax involving the Chunin Exams and the arrival of the Otsutsuki clan. After completing their respective boss encounters, both characters become available in the roster.
These characters are not only powerful but also unique in gameplay design. Kinshiki focuses on heavy melee attacks and chakra weapon constructs, while Momoshiki introduces mechanics involving chakra absorption and counterattacks.
Their unlock conditions are straightforward but require completing the story fully, making them some of the last DLC characters players will access.
Do you need to complete Adventure Mode?
One common question is whether Adventure Mode is required to unlock DLC characters. The answer is no, but it can still be useful.
Adventure Mode primarily focuses on exploring the Naruto Shippuden world after the main story. It allows players to complete side missions, collect items, and unlock additional content such as costumes and support items.
However, DLC characters from the Road to Boruto expansion are not tied to Adventure Mode progression. They are unlocked exclusively through the Boruto story campaign.
That said, completing Adventure Mode can help you unlock additional customization options that enhance your gameplay experience with DLC characters.
Installing DLC correctly to avoid missing characters
Many players fail to unlock DLC characters simply because the content is not installed properly. After purchasing DLC, you must ensure it is fully downloaded and activated within your platform’s system.
On consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, DLC is often listed separately in the store or add-ons section. You may need to manually download each pack even after purchasing a bundle. On PC platforms like Steam, DLC should automatically install, but verifying game files can help resolve issues.
Additionally, the game may require a restart after installation for new content to appear. If characters are still missing, checking for updates or reinstalling the DLC can fix the problem.
These steps are especially important for players returning to the game after a long break.
Differences between editions of the game
The unlocking process can vary depending on which edition of Storm 4 you own. The standard edition requires purchasing DLC separately, while the Road to Boruto edition bundles most content together.
The Legacy Edition and other complete versions often include all DLC packs pre-installed. In these versions, players only need to progress through the Boruto story to unlock characters, without worrying about additional purchases.
Because of this, newer players usually have a much easier experience unlocking DLC fighters compared to those who bought the game at launch.
Checking your edition before starting can save time and prevent confusion.
Tips to unlock all DLC characters faster
If your goal is to unlock all DLC characters quickly, focusing on the Boruto story is the most efficient approach. Skipping optional battles and cutscenes can speed up progression significantly.
Using stronger characters during story missions can also reduce completion time. Since many fights are scripted, understanding enemy patterns helps finish battles faster.
Additionally, make sure your game is fully updated before starting. Some patches improve performance and fix bugs that could interfere with progression.
Finally, avoid switching modes frequently while unlocking characters. Staying within the Boruto story until completion ensures that all related fighters unlock without interruption.
Why DLC characters matter in Storm 4
DLC characters are not just cosmetic additions. They significantly expand the gameplay experience in Storm 4.
Characters like Boruto and Sarada introduce new fighting styles that differ from traditional Naruto Shippuden mechanics. Meanwhile, characters like Momoshiki and Kinshiki bring entirely new combat dynamics that can change how matches are played.
The inclusion of Boruto-era fighters also extends the game’s relevance beyond the original Naruto storyline. It allows players to experience the transition into the next generation of shinobi directly within the Storm series.
For competitive players, DLC characters can also provide new strategies and team combinations, making them essential for mastering the game fully.
