In the vibrant world of gaming, anime games on PC have carved out a special niche that continues to captivate fans worldwide. These games offer a blend of gripping narratives, enchanting art styles, and immersive gameplay that'll make you feel like you're living in an anime universe. Here's a list of the top 10 anime games PC gamers shouldn't miss, each offering a unique digital escapade garnished with the essence of Japanese animation.
Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom
Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom, developed by Level-5 in collaboration with Studio Ghibli veterans, stands out with its compelling story and breathtaking fantasy world. Following the young King Evan on his quest to build a kingdom where everyone can live happily ever after, this game enchants players with its Studio Ghibli-inspired art style and whimsical soundtrack. The innovative hybrid battle system that combines real-time action and tactical elements affords players a uniquely engaging combat experience. With its heartfelt narrative and endearing characters, Ni No Kuni II is a testament to the powerful storytelling of anime in gaming form.
Dragon Ball FighterZ
Fans of the iconic anime series Dragon Ball rejoice, as Dragon Ball FighterZ perfectly captures the intensity and spectacle of the beloved show. Developed by Arc System Works, this 2.5D fighter game boasts a roster of the series' most famous characters and delivers fast-paced, explosive matches that mirror the anime's epic battles. With its stunning visual fidelity and impeccable gameplay mechanics, Dragon Ball FighterZ satisfies both competitive gamers and die-hard fans of the franchise, offering an electrifying tribute that feels like playing through the anime itself.
Persona 5 Strikers
A dazzling fusion of classic JRPG elements and intense action sequences, Persona 5 Strikers takes players on an extraordinary road trip with the beloved Phantom Thieves. As a continuation of the critically acclaimed Persona 5, this title dips into gripping storytelling, showing the consequences of society's ills in a profound yet entertaining way. Alongside its stylish and visually engaging combat system, Persona 5 Strikers offers a deep and fulfilling narrative experience, capturing the very soul of the original game while introducing exciting new mechanics and adventures.
Final Fantasy XIV
An epic MMORPG that has seen a phenomenal revival, Final Fantasy XIV not only stands as one of the best PC games but also a premier anime-style experience. With its extensive and emotionally charged storylines, breathtaking graphics, and a mesmerizing soundtrack by composer Nobuo Uematsu, FFXIV is more than just a game; it's a living, breathing world. Each player's journey through the realms of Eorzea is an odyssey of self-discovery and camaraderie, where friendships are forged, and legends are born through trials, triumphs, and adversities faced together with players around the globe.
Tales of Berseria
As part of the long-standing 'Tales of series, Tales of Berseria delivers an intense and dark storyline fueled by complex characters, particularly the protagonist, Velvet Crowe. This emotional narrative drives players through a journey of revenge and redemption, all woven into action-packed battle sequences and an expansive game world. The game's signature "Linear Motion Battle System" has been refined into a more dynamic and visually captivating skirmish format that engages players in intense, strategic combat, making every encounter feel personal and impactful.
Code Vein
Artfully blending post-apocalyptic themes with anime aesthetics, Code Vein presents an engrossing world where players face off against monstrous creatures in a desolate, vampiric landscape. Known as a "souls-like" game due to its challenging difficulty and meticulous combat, it also allows for deep character customization and a distinctive 'Gift' system, adding layers of strategy to each confrontation. With its compelling cooperative gameplay option, intriguing storyline, and memorable cast of characters, Code Vein delivers a darkly beautiful adventure for those who dare to traverse its perilous world.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Fire Emblem: Three Houses showcases the successful transition of Nintendo's iconic strategy series to the PC realm with an emulation. Set in the continent of Fódlan, players take on the role of a professor and tactician, shaping the futures of their students while engaging in complex tactical battles. With multiple story paths, the fates of nations and characters thoroughly intertwine, providing extensive replayability. The game's strategic depth, coupled with a rich narrative and a cast of memorable characters, ensures that it stands out as a top-tier anime game for PC gamers.
Attack on Titan 2
Serving as a brilliant adaptation of the anime, Attack on Titan 2 puts players right into the heart of the series' thrilling and often terrifying confrontations with the monstrous Titans. Players can experience the story from a fresh and personal perspective and engage in improved omni-directional mobility gear combat, delivering the frenetic and satisfying action that mimics the style of the anime's dramatic confrontations closely. The game excels in letting players feel the weight and consequence of every battle, mirroring the same intense emotions faced by the characters within the anime.
Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
The Danganronpa series initiates with Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc, a fusion of visual novel storytelling with murder mystery and psychological thriller elements. Players find themselves trapped within the confines of a school, where the only means of escape is to outsmart and uncover the other students' secrets in deadly rounds of 'Class Trials'. The game's unique blend of dark humor, suspenseful narrative, and brain-teasing puzzles provides an experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging, inviting players to unravel the mysteries of Hope's Peak Academy.
Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of DANA
The Ys series, known for its fast action and engaging storytelling, shines brilliantly in Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of DANA. This installment elevates the franchise with its expansive world and interwoven narratives that follow Adol Christin and the enigmatic Dana. It combines a fluid combat system with an intriguing tale of survival and discovery on a cursed island. Exploration and character development are at the forefront as secrets unravel and ancient mysteries are brought to light. Ys VIII's anime-inspired artwork and riveting music score encapsulate the spirit of adventure that is synonymous with the best anime experiences available on PC.
Anime games have grown from a niche market to a significant force in the gaming industry, and this list represents but a slice of the vast universe of anime-inspired gaming on PC. Each game on this list brings its unique flavor and approach to the table, ensuring that there's an anime game out there for every type of gamer. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in a heartfelt story, engage in strategic battles, or live out your favorite anime series, these games are sure to provide hours of captivating entertainment. Dive into these virtual worlds, and let the vibrant essence of anime gaming enrapture your senses and imagination.