The worlds of gaming and anime are closely connected, with many games already adapted into popular animated series. Yet, there remain plenty of games with unique stories, characters, and styles that deserve their own anime adaptations. Here are 10 standout titles:
1. Star Fox
Star Fox, launched in 1993 on the Super Nintendo, quickly won over fans. Since then, the series has expanded with nine more entries, pushing its boundaries. The entire premise, from interplanetary travel and battling Andross’s forces to teaming up with allies like Katt and Krystal and facing off against the cunning Star Wolf, could fuel a thrilling 12-episode anime series packed with action and drama.
2. ARMS
Although a successful Nintendo fighting game, ARMS has yet to make a big splash in the competitive scene. Despite strong reviews and solid sales, player interest remains modest. An anime series could reignite attention, showcasing its unique fighters joining forces to defeat Hedlok and foil Dr. Coyle’s schemes in an exciting action-sports story.
3. Advance Wars
Adapting Nintendo’s tactical strategy game Advance Wars into anime would be straightforward and promising. The first two games, Advance Wars and Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising, could form the basis of a two-season series. Watching Andy, Sami, and Max lead the Orange Star Army against the Black Hole Army would deliver epic battles reminiscent of classics like Mobile Suit Gundam or Macross, but with a lighter tone suited for younger viewers.
4. Panzer Dragoon
An anime series based on Panzer Dragoon would follow Keil, a young man who unexpectedly becomes the rider of a powerful blue dragon. Together, they are the only ones who can stop an empire from activating a devastating ancient technology. With its surreal monster designs and post-apocalyptic setting, Panzer Dragoon offers stunning action and visuals that would translate perfectly into anime.
5. Shantae
Starting modestly on Game Boy Color, the Shantae series has made a spectacular comeback, with each new game bolder and bigger. Studio Trigger, a top animation studio, produced the opening for Shantae and the Seven Sirens, signaling strong momentum. The series’ unique character designs, engaging story, playful humor, and vibrant action make it ideal for a captivating anime.
6. Alundra
As a spiritual successor to Landstalker on Sega Genesis, Alundra is filled with terrifying monsters, surprising plot twists, and intense action. Its anime-style art makes adapting it into a full series quite feasible. With its darker tone beneath a vibrant exterior and solid storytelling, Alundra has the potential to become the next mature fantasy epic alongside series like Dragon’s Dogma and Onimusha.
7. Astral Chain
Astral Chain, an action game exclusive to Nintendo Switch, perfectly showcases PlatinumGames’ style. With top-tier action and distinctive character designs, it’s well-suited for anime adaptation. The story could easily stretch into a 12-episode season featuring spectacular battles where Legions soar through the skies fighting monsters. While the plot can be complex, the breathtaking action is what fans would truly anticipate.
8. Parasite Eve
Parasite Eve is Square’s answer to the Resident Evil series and has been hugely successful. This mature sci-fi horror blends survival elements with RPG mechanics. Protagonist Aya wields both guns and psychic powers to confront Eve. It’s surprising Parasite Eve hasn’t been adapted into anime yet, given Aya’s strong, compelling lead role, Eve’s intriguing villainy, and the effective mix of bloody combat and dark sci-fi. If Square remakes the game, an anime series would be a great way to introduce Aya to a new generation.
9. Solatorobo: Red the Hunter
Solatorobo has everything needed for an anime. It features bright, grand settings filled with flying vehicles and steampunk details, a stylish cast of anthropomorphic characters, and plenty of thrilling aerial action. Designed by Nobuteru Yuki, a renowned anime character designer, adapting Solatorobo wouldn’t be a stretch. Its strong action, stunning art style, and surprisingly deep story make it a perfect candidate for the small screen.
10. World of Horror
Deeply inspired by the works of Junji Ito and H.P. Lovecraft, World of Horror blends traditional Japanese horror with cosmic terror. Since many of Ito’s works have been adapted into anime, it makes sense for World of Horror to follow suit. Done right, this anime could be the perfect response to the recent disappointing Uzumaki adaptation. The key would be maintaining a consistent, coherent art style rather than trying to replicate every detail of Ito’s work, creating a truly terrifying and captivating horror series.