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Here are 8 anime based on video games that you need to watch. Discover how they rank amongst each other as well.
Anime is adapted from a wide variety of sources, with the most popular ones being manga and light novels. However, an equally intriguing yet underrated form of media that is adapted into anime is video games. Over the years, there have been several exciting video game-based anime, providing faithful adaptations and also taking creative liberties to expand the lore.
Hence, here are 8 anime based on video games that everyone needs to watch. These are sourced from a variety of online games, be it visual novels, RPGs, action-packed games, or any other category. Nevertheless, they still connect with most demographics.
8) Danganropa: The Animation
Based on the popular visual novel, Danganropa: The Animation combines the engaging high school setting with an intense survival game. The series follows the attendees of Hope’s Peak Private Academy, an institution renowned for having the best students.
In a twist, the dreams of these students soon turn into a nightmare when a sadistic bear named Monokuma forces them into a game of death. Upon discovering their entrapment in the school, they can survive only by taking a fellow classmate’s life and avoiding detection.
This sets off a journey filled with thrill, mystery, and suspense. While the anime adaptation condenses the source material, it remains enjoyable in its own right.
7) Nier: Automata Ver1.1a
Nier: Automata is considered a masterpiece by most game players, which created immense hype for its anime adaptation. Made by the acclaimed A-1 Pictures, the series is set in a post-apocalyptic world run by aliens.
While humans have retreated to the moon, their only hope remains in android soldiers called YohRHa. Trained in battle, this group, led by the enigmatic 2B, fight to regain control of Earth. Over the course of their battle, however, the dark truths of the world and deep questions regarding existentialism arise.
The Nier: Automata anime retains the stylistic presence of the game, showcasing emotional weight and high-octane battles. Hence, it will appeal greatly to science fiction lovers hoping to enter the world of Nier.
6) Higurashi: When They Cry
Higurashi: When They Cry is one of the horror greats, blending psychological elements with the supernatural. The story follows Keiichi, a young boy who moves to a supposedly peaceful town. He soon finds this to be completely false, as the town is plagued by murders and mysteries linked to its ominous festival.
Making matters worse, none of the other residents reveal anything to him, creating a nightmarish experience for both the protagonist and the viewers. Higurashi excels at creating an unsettling atmosphere, leaving us at the edge of our seats. Its cute character designs directly contrast its story, creating an engaging experience.
5) Pokemon
As one of the most successful video game franchises ever, Pokemon is a name that needs no introduction. However, the sales of the games can also be heavily attributed to its fan-favorite anime adaptation.
Pokemon presents a world where trainers embark on grand explorations, catching supernatural creatures, and participating in exciting battles. The series follows Ash, a young boy who travels with his Pokemon, Pikachu. As they explore their world, they befriend trusted companions, capture captivating Pokemon, and encounter formidable foes.
While primarily targeting younger audiences, Pokemon evokes nostalgia in all viewers. It stands as one of the most creative storylines ever crafted, with each league in the series continuing to amaze us.
4) Clannad
Clannad and its sequel, After Story, are considered among the best slice-of-life anime ever by many viewers. Adapted from the visual novel source, the series follows a delinquent named Tomoya. While finding life exhausting, he runs into a shy but captivating girl named Nagisa.
As the two spend time together, they befriend each other, with Tomoya helping Nagisa heal from her past wounds and revive the drama club. With each passing episode, Tomoya forms a bond with several other girls, helping them face their fears and obstacles.
The series then proceeds to Clannad: After Story, which is a realistic but extremely depressing depiction of life. It is known for its themes of family, love, and loss, resulting in a brilliant tear-jerker. Hence, if you wish to enjoy a bittersweet anime with beautiful visuals and an emotionally resonant story, Clannad is the perfect choice.
3) The Fate Series
Adapted from the popular Fate/stay night visual novel, The Fate Series has quickly become one of the most expansive and beloved anime franchises. The core of the storyline follows the events around the Holy Grail War. In order to win the war and gain the wish-granting artifact, humans play the role of masters, summoning legendary heroes as their servants.
Through this, fans get to experience exhilarating action and emotional deaths in nearly every episode of The Fate Series. The main storyline is adapted by Studio Ufotable, known for their jaw-dropping animation.
With philosophical undertones, compelling character arcs and rich lore, The Fate Series may look intimidating to start but is worth the investment.
2) Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Inspired by the Cyberpunk 2077 role-playing game, Cyberpunk Edgerunners proves how an anime adaptation can help its source gain more popularity. This series is a highly imaginative story set in a dystopian world.
In an environment of tragedy where people rely on cybernetic enhancements to define their existence, a young boy named David gains a powerful piece of technology. As a newly made outlaw after his mother’s death, David joins a group of cyberpunks, joining their missions. However, he soon finds that the secrets of his city run much deeper than what is apparent.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a revolutionary series that gave Netflix a good reputation for its anime projects. More importantly, it motivated many fans to try the original game right when the source was facing a decline. Its engrossing storyline featuring memorable characters and non-stop action is well worth the watch.
1) Steins;Gate
Steins;Gate is considered one of the greatest anime ever made, with most fans not even realizing it’s based on a visual novel. This layered story follows Rintarou Okabe, an eccentric scientist who accidentally discovers time travel.
Unfortunately, when experimenting with his invention to change the past, he causes devastating results due to the theories of cause and effect. Determined to set things right again, Rintarou sets off on a quest to undo his wrongs, running into all kinds of conspiracies and dangerous groups on his way.
Steins;Gate features exceptional storytelling, intricate character development, and emotional depth. It stays factual with its science but still manages to deliver it in an exciting way to viewers. This deservingly places it at the top of this list of anime based on video games you need to watch.
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