France is the second largest consumer of manga in the world behind Japan. At the same time, video games are the leading French cultural asset, in addition to being the leading cultural industry in the world (ahead of cinema and music). It was obvious that these two worlds were made to go together. In recent years, games inspired by Japanese works have been multiplying. Dragon Ball, One Piece, Naruto, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,… Everyone has the right to their adaptation.
Video games are often an innovative way to dive into the franchise, discovering the characters in a new light, but also to be able to embody them instead of simply watching them. For all fighting productions, it still gives another perspective on their power as heroes. But not all are equal. Among the games released, there are both institutions and serious duds. Here are the 5 that we prefer to recommend to you (and which are still playable on this generation of console or the one just before).
One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4
On PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Nintendo Switch.
Although the last game One Piece Odyssey was not necessarily appreciated, the license has other nuggets to offer you. The one who recently found a Netflix adaptation has also distinguished itself in the world of video games with the Pirate Warriors franchise. The fourth opus is a truly immersive experience in the fantastic world of piracy imagined by Eiichiro Oda.
Players can embody their favorite characters from the series, like Luffy, Zoro, Nami and many others, to fight hordes of enemies in epic real-time battles. The game features an engaging single-player campaign that traces the story of “One Piece” from the beginning to the Wano arc, as well as online multiplayer modes to compete against players from around the world. The best part is that you can explore exotic islands and become the pirate king as it has always been Straw Hat Pirates' dream.
Buy One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 for PS4
Sand Land
On PlayStation, Xbox and PC.
Sand Land is the latest game adapted from manga. It was written by Akira Toriyama, the father of Dragon Ball who recently passed away. The adventure game Sand Land is set in the same universe, populated by humans and demons in the grip of a violent drought. Water is running out for both parties who decide to join forces to find the legendary source.
Although we find the central story of the manga, the game adds a whole section of customization of side quests and a big focus on vehicles that end up convincing us. The narrative becomes touching, focusing less on the fighting than on deeper reflections on human nature and selfishness. This is a real gem to have in your library if you like visual styles drawn in the style of Borderlands.
Attack On Titan 2 – Final Battle
On PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Nintendo Switch.
Another successful franchise, Attack on Titan (SNK) is one of the favorite anime and manga of those who are receptive to the genre. It made a foray into video games a few years ago, and Attack On Titan 2 – Final Battle remains the best demonstration of this. It is an action game developed by Omega Force and published by Koei Tecmo. The title offers an immersive experience where players can relive the key events of the series, including the epic battles between humanity and the Titans.
As a member of the Survey Corps, players can choose from a variety of characters and use their three-dimensional maneuvering equipment to fight Titans with agility and strategy. This particular edition features the Final Battle expansion, which offers a continuation of the story with additional content based on the third season of the anime, in addition to other additions such as game modes.
Buy Attack On Titan 2 – Final Battle
Naruto Shipudden Ultimate Ninja Storm 4
On PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Nintendo Switch.
After adventure games, we enter the most used category for video game titles inspired by manga: fighting games. Among all the existing iterations for the Naruto franchise, Shipudden Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 – Road to Boruto (yes it’s very long) is certainly the one you need. Released in 2016, it features almost all of the characters from Naruto Shippuden, still one of the best manga/animes out there.
In addition to its free arena mode, the game also features a full story mode that traces the key events of the series up to its conclusion. Its strong point is the introduction of new gameplay mechanics, such as ultimate team attacks, for even more dynamic and strategic clashes.
Buy Naruto Shipudden Ultimate Ninja Storm 4
Dragon Ball: FighterZ
On PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Nintendo Switch.
We will end this selection with a must-have. Dragon Ball: FighterZ is also a 2D fighting game, but this time based on the popular manga and anime universe created by Akira Toriyama. Players can choose from a variety of iconic characters from the series, such as Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo and many more, each with their own unique moves and special techniques.
The game takes place in beautifully drawn 2D arenas, where speed reigns supreme. Don't panic, the title offers gameplay accessible to beginners while also offering strategic depth for experienced players.
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