10 Best Anime-Inspired Video Games to Play in 2025

Anime and video games share a unique connection, merging captivating narratives with engaging gameplay environments. Whether it’s high-speed battle games or expansive role-playing adventures, these games that originate from anime offer a chance to experience cherished characters and settings in thrilling new dimensions.

I’ve compiled a list of ten exceptional games that truly embody their anime origins. Each one provides distinctive gameplay while remaining faithful to the original content, making them essential plays for any anime fan.

10. ‘Attack on Titan 2’ (2018)

This high-energy game immerses you in the rough setting of ‘Attack on Titan’ (2013-2023). You glide through cities equipped with Omni-Directional Mobility gear, slashing Titans as part of the Scout Regiment. The game carries over from the anime’s second season and allows you to design your own character, participating in significant conflicts. Its swift combat and captivating plot make it an exhilarating adventure for enthusiasts.

9. ‘Bleach: The Blade of Fate’ (2006)

This Nintendo DS game, titled ‘Bleach: Soul Carnival’ (approximate name), delivers the world of Soul Society right into your hands. You take charge of characters such as Ichigo and Rukia, each boasting their own special skills and dramatic Bankai transformations. The 2D combat is seamless, featuring swift dodges and spectacular combos that mirror the action-packed fights from the anime series. This portable game remains a gem due to its well-crafted gameplay mechanics, even after all these years.

8. ‘Yu-Gi-Oh! The Eternal Duelist Soul’ (2001)

Based on the popular anime series ‘Yu-Gi-Oh!’, which aired from 2000 to 2006, this Game Boy Advance game brings back the strategic intricacies of its card game. You construct decks and engage in battles with characters from the show, such as Yugi and Kaiba. The straightforward interface and accurate mechanics make it a delightful blast from the past, reminding players of the excitement of outwitting opponents using clever card combinations.

7. ‘Gundam Battle Assault 2’ (2002)

Based on the popular anime series ‘Mobile Suit Gundam Wing’ (1995-1996), this PlayStation fighting game places you behind the controls of legendary mechs. The handling is precise, ensuring that each Gundam has its unique feel. It merges competitive play with the distinctive atmosphere of mech warfare from the anime. Fans adore its refined mechanics and diverse roster featuring beloved characters from the series.

6. ‘My Hero One’s Justice’ (2018)

In the anime series ‘My Hero Academia’ (airing from 2016 till present), this 3D fighting game allows you to choose characters like Midoriya or Shigaraki, either heroes or villains. The combat takes place in arena-style settings, featuring dynamic abilities and destructible environments. Although its sequel refined the overall experience, the original stands out for its extensive character roster and captivating story mode. It’s a thrilling way to explore the vibrant universe of this popular anime.

5. ‘Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3’ (2013)

This game, linked to the ‘Naruto: Shippuden’ series (2007-2017), offers an immersive story mode encompassing the Fourth Great Ninja War. The arena combat is easy to grasp yet boasts depth, featuring more than 80 characters. The graphics emulate the anime’s vibrant aesthetic, and the battles seem like animated episodes brought to life. It stands out in the series for its grand scale and epic quality.

4. ‘Persona 5 Royal’ (2019)

This role-playing game (RPG), reminiscent of the ‘Persona’ anime series adaptations from 2016 to 2018, focuses on the Phantom Thieves in Tokyo. By day, you lead a normal student life; by night, you engage in battles within the Metaverse. Its visually appealing design, turn-based gameplay, and immersive storyline set it apart. The game delves deeper into the anime’s world, offering more detailed character arcs and interactive gameplay.

3. ‘Honkai: Star Rail’ (2023)

Although not specifically linked to an anime series, this HoYoverse-developed turn-based RPG exhibits the futuristic vibe of ‘Honkai Impact 3rd’ (2019-present). You journey through a cosmos on board the Astral Express, encountering a vibrant crew and tactical combat. Its art style inspired by anime and captivating narrative create an experience akin to watching an interstellar cartoon. It offers free gameplay with gacha components, making it both user-friendly and hard to put down.

2. ‘Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age’ (2017)

Featuring designs reminiscent of Akira Toriyama’s work on ‘Dragon Ball’ (from 1986 up until now), this RPG evokes the grandeur of an anime saga. As a protagonist, you journey to discover your fate in a vividly depicted world. The engaging turn-based battles and endearing characters captivate, all set against stunning 3D backdrops. It’s essentially a heartfelt tribute to anime storytelling and the timeless charm of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs).

1. ‘Dragon Ball FighterZ’ (2018)

Leading the pack, ‘Dragon Ball FighterZ’ embodies the essence of the original ‘Dragon Ball Z’ (1989-1996). This three versus three fighting game showcases breathtaking visuals akin to the anime’s artwork. Its swift battles and lineup of legendary characters such as Goku and Vegeta ensure that each duel is heroic. Continuous updates and downloadable content ensure that it remains engaging for fans.

2025-07-09 12:14