Not all anime is confined to the screen. Some stories gain such prominence that they transcend the audiovisual barriers and become games, opening up new ways to explore the characters, settings, and plots that audiences already know.
- Genshin Impact will be removed from PlayStation 4
- Nintendo reveals date for next Indie World Showcase
Whether adapting epic battles, exploring post-apocalyptic worlds, or delving into thrilling plots, these anime-based games demonstrate how narrative can take on new layers when interactive. We've gathered five notable examples that deserve to be highlighted for maintaining the essence of anime while still delivering compelling experiences for players.
Dragon Ball: a franchise that dominated fighting games
Dragon Ball is a classic example of an anime that found a way to expand its success through games. From older consoles to the most recent, the franchise has spawned dozens of titles, including Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi, FighterZ, and the most recent Kakarot.
The games successfully capture the fast-paced combat, iconic powers, and visual fidelity to the anime. Furthermore, they allow players to relive memorable moments from the saga or experience never-before-seen battles. The franchise's longevity in games demonstrates how the universe created by Akira Toriyama remains relevant and captivating in any medium.
Naruto: ninja battles and stories that evolve on consoles
The journey of the young ninja Naruto has also made a strong transition into the gaming world. The Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm series is one of the most praised, both for its dynamic gameplay and narrative fidelity.
Each game follows specific moments from the anime, allowing players to relive thrilling battles with graphics reminiscent of real-time animation. But it's not just about combat: the titles also explore the relationships between the characters and their personal dilemmas.
With this, Naruto games increase immersion for those who already know the anime and also serve as a gateway for new fans.
Attack on Titan: Tense action and unique mechanics in a brutal world
Attack on Titan is one of the most intense anime series of recent years, and its video game adaptation follows suit. Furthermore, games in the franchise, such as Attack on Titan 2, rely on mechanics that replicate the 3D movement equipment used by the characters, creating a fast-paced and strategic combat rhythm.
The player faces colossal titans in challenging battles while following the original story. The sense of urgency and danger is constant, and the dark visuals reinforce the anime's tense atmosphere. The adaptation is faithful, but also allows the player to interact directly with the plot.
Demon Slayer: Visual Fidelity and Accessible Combat
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Hinokami Chronicles is a game that impresses with its visual fidelity to the anime. The graphics accurately reproduce the aesthetics of the anime, which catches the eye from the first few minutes of gameplay. The combat system is accessible, designed for both beginners and more experienced fighting game fans.
The plot follows the main arcs of the anime, but the game also introduces additional modes and side battles. It's a way to relive Tanjiro and Nezuko's story with more depth and interactivity, without losing the emotional appeal that made the anime such a phenomenon.
One Piece: Freedom of exploration in a vast world
With so many episodes and characters, it was only natural that One Piece would find its way into video games. Titles like One Piece: Pirate Warriors and One Piece Odyssey explore the series' universe with varied gameplay styles, from mass battles to more strategic RPGs.
The highlight is the freedom of exploration, thus allowing the player to travel through islands, talk to iconic characters and experience adventures that complement the main narrative.
The spirit of adventure that defines the anime is maintained, but takes on new dimensions when the player takes the helm. This transforms each game into an extension of the Straw Hat Pirates' journey.
When anime goes beyond the screen
These examples show how the power of a good storyline doesn't have to be limited to the original format. When well adapted, anime-based games can expand universes, deepen characters, and offer new experiences for fans. Besides keeping the passion for the stories alive, these interactive versions create new ways to connect with audiences, proving that anime and video games form a creative and powerful partnership.
