Set in the late 1570's, one year after the original Tenchu, Tenchu: Return from Darkness allows players to assume the role of the ninjas Rikimaru, Ayame or the mysterious Tesshu as they battle the evil Tenrai and his six lords of darkness. As silent assassins, players must use cunning, strategy, deadly stealth and an arsenal of weapons to overcome dangerous missions and defend the Japanese countryside from Tenrai's armies. Tenchu: Return from Darkness will feature three gameplay modes including single-player, two-player (versus and co-op) and Xbox Live. The title will also include 11 stages of gameplay in the story mode with two new single player maps, as well as six multiplayer levels. Additionally, the game will feature all new cut-scenes, enemy layouts and will allow players to hone their ninja skills before embarking on deadly missions in the new training mode. The title will support Xbox Live, allowing for two-player co-op missions through all six multiplayer levels as well as voice chat functionality for those who choose to break the code of silence. Players can also engage in simultaneous stealth kills as the online ninjas make their way through each danger-filled stage. Tenchu: Return from Darkness is scheduled for an early Spring 2004 release.