Steam has innumerable anime games, and the list will grow as more are transferred or released on PC. We will discuss Steam’s best anime games in this article. Remastered classics like Ni no Kuni, Dragon Quest XI S, and more will be included. Our enormous list of the 15 best anime games on Steam will contain several series since some franchises have more than three great games.
As there are several meanings of best anime games, we must classify them first. The term “anime games” has many meanings in different conversations. Games with animation are called “anime”. Whether Western or Japanese, they’re called the best anime games.
Only the “cartoon made in Japan” best anime games will be included in this list. Japanese anime games have a distinct art style. Final Fantasy and other JRPGs are not comical anime. The list will center on Dragon Quest, Persona, and similar games rather than Final Fantasy and Helltaker. The definition is debatable, and a loose list will be too extensive.
The 15 Best Anime Games on Steam
Checkout top 15 best anime games on steam in 2023.
1. Code Vein
Code Vein is one of the best anime games. A Souls-like game will be difficult and include many deaths.
The battle mechanics are slick like Souls, but the game is more ‘anime.’
Code Vein allows extensive character customization. Community-created characters can be imported for playthroughs. These designs may make your character resemble Final Fantasy’s Lightning.
2. Atelier Series
Atelier is a popular Japanese role-playing video game series that began in 1997. Alchemy-based gameplay, which requires gathering materials and making objects, is the series’ hallmark.
The player controls a young alchemist in a medieval or fantasy world as they try to learn new skills, discover mysteries, and save the planet from a threat.
Each game has a distinct cast of characters, with the protagonist being joined by a group of companions that help them. The games have a turn-based battle system where players employ various skills to beat adversaries.
The Atelier series emphasizes time management. Players usually have a fixed period of time to achieve their goals, such as creating an item or beating an adversary. Therefore, players must carefully manage their time and resources to progress.
Atelier’s bright and immersive universe blends alchemy, adventure, and RPG components for a unique and exciting gameplay experience.
3. Persona
The popular Japanese role-playing video game series Persona launched in 1996. Atlus’ RPGs with social simulation features are unique.
Modern-day Japan-set games follow high school kids who must fight otherworldly forces to rescue the planet. Complex characters and serious topics like identity, mortality, and the human psyche characterize the series.
Persona games involve exploring landscapes, fighting adversaries, and interacting with non-playable individuals. A social simulation system lets players form relationships with these characters, which might alter the story and finale.
Persona is lauded for its plot, characters, and gameplay. The games in the series are independent but share themes and motifs. Persona 5, published in 2016, has since spawned an enhanced version, spin-off games, and an anime. This is the best anime game.
4. Dragon Ball Z
Dragon Ball Z may be the most influential anime. This success has led to several Dragon Ball Z games since the 1980s.
Dragon Ball Z Xenoverse, Kakarot, and FighterZ are all wonderful games for anime enthusiasts, with varied gameplays.
Dragon Ball Z Xenoverse and Kakarot are open-world fighting games where you can explore the Dragon Ball universe and fight different characters. In Dragon Ball FighterZ, you fight another player using your favorite Dragon Ball Z characters in 2D.
All three are fantastic, however it depends on your genre.
5. Ni no Kuni
Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli works inspired Ni no Kuni. Bandai Namco publishes Studio Ghibli developers. The first is a turn-based JRPG, while the second is a classic story with Studio Ghibli-style whimsical graphics.
Wrath of the White Witch is a remaster of the 2011 PlayStation 3 game, whereas Revenant Kingdom is a wonderful sequel seven years later.
Start with Ni no Kuni for a clean, happy JRPG. It may seem like a kid’s game, but you can try other JRPGs on the list.
6. Doki Doki Literature Club
Doki Doki Literature Club is the sole free game. This brief visual novel game captivated everyone with its fascinating gameplay. The game plays with your emotions, so expect several turns.
Storytelling in visual novel games requires a lot of reading. The game’s colorful characters and dialogues are intriguing.
All best anime games fans should enjoy Doki Doki Literature Club. The game is free, making it easy to try. Check out all the secrets—you’ll be surprised.
7. Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel
Nihon Falcom developed the Japanese role-playing game series The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel. In Erebonia, a magical and technological realm, the games follow Class VII, a group of students at the famous Thors Military Academy.
The Trails of Cold Steel series is a standard RPG involving world exploration, enemy combat, and non-player character dialogue.
The series emphasizes character development, allowing players to engage with classmates through bonding events and other activities.
The games’ “Orbal Arts” warfare system lets players customize and upgrade their characters’ skills using “Orbment” devices. The series emphasizes storytelling with a complex plot across numerous games.
The games in the series are set in different parts of Erebonia and have separate casts, although they share themes and plot aspects.
8. Clannad
The visual novel Clannad is also included. Clannad, a beloved anime series, inspired it. Their video game’s stunning graphics immerse you.
Though the game is aimed at anime lovers, it’s also a good place to start for newcomers.
9. Catherine
Catherine is another great game for Persona fans. Same manufacturer (Atlus). The PlayStation 3 game was launched in 2011; Steam added it in 2019.
It follows the Persona series but plays differently. It’s a sophisticated puzzle game with lots of animations. The story severely objectifies women, making it problematic. The game fearlessly addresses serious issues.
Atlus games are known for their twists. JRPG fans should try the game.
10. I am Setsuna
Japanese role-playing game I am Setsuna was developed by Tokyo RPG Factory and published by Square Enix. Since 2016, the game has been noted for its retro gameplay and emotive tale.
In a mythical world where permanent winter has gripped the country, Setsuna, a young girl, is chosen to offer herself to satisfy the monsters who threaten it. Endir, a mercenary, guides Setsuna to her destiny.
I am Setsuna features turn-based fights and environment exploration like classic RPGs. The “ATB system,” which uses a character’s speed stat to time attacks and abilities, is unique to the game.
The poignant and melancholy story of sacrifice, sorrow, and redemption is a highlight of I am Setsuna. The piano and string music adds to the game’s gloomy atmosphere.
The game is lauded for its classic gameplay, poignant tale, and ambient graphics. It has been compared favorably to Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI.
11. Scarlet Nexus
Scarlet Nexus is a 2021 Bandai Namco Studios action RPG. Humans use “Psionics,” extrasensory powers, to fight “Others” in a futuristic society.
The game follows Yuito Sumeragi or Kasane Randall, both elite Other Suppression Force members. The player must explore places, fight creatures, and discover the Others’ origins.
Scarlet Nexus’ fast-paced gameplay features a variety of combat and Psionic powers. Players can also use the “Brain Punk” technology to read enemies’ brains and find flaws.
The game’s anime-inspired graphics include complex locations and characters. Many applaud the game’s soundtrack, composed by a team of famous Japanese composers.
Scarlet Nexus is praised for its captivating gameplay, compelling storyline, and stunning presentation. Its unique action RPG style and examination of identity, memory, and mental power have garnered praise.
12. Tales Series
Long-running Japanese role-playing video game franchise Tales is developed by Bandai Namco Studios. After Tales of Phantasia in 1995, more sequels and spin-offs followed.
Fast-paced, real-time fighting systems with spectacular special moves are typical of the series. The games emphasize story and character development and offer substantial character customization.
Each Tales game has a different universe, lore, and characters, but many share themes and motifs. The games generally address complicated issues like friendship, love, and power and authority.
With detailed character designs and locations, Tales has anime-style visuals. Games usually have great voice acting and epic orchestral music.
The series is lauded for its compelling gameplay, interesting characters, and complex story. Tales of Symphonia, Vesperia, and Berseria are popular.
13. Dragon Quest
Steam has several Dragon Quest games, but only two are worth playing. Dragon Quest Builders 2 and XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age.
Echoes of an Elusive Age is a Dragon Quest XI S classic. One of the best Dragon Quest games ever. Despite the “XI” label, you don’t need to play the other games in the series to enjoy this gem.
Final installment from creator Yuji Horii, character designer Akira Toriyama, and musician Koichi Sugiyama. The game is nicely constructed and challenges you at the right plot and progression speed.
The turn-based combat system is simple enough for beginners yet provides enough customization and strategy for Dragon Quest veterans.
Dragon Quest Builders 2 is standalone. The original version is not required to play this game. Dragon Quest Builders 2 is as advertised. In this block-building RPG, you explore, harvest, build, and fight in single-player.
It’s like Minecraft with an intriguing twist. Exploration will inspire your creativity and show you how big the world is. Content is limitless. You can play the 4-player online sandbox with pals.
14. Steins Gate: My Darling’s Embrace
The iconic mind-boggling anime series inspired Steins Gate, another visual novel. This slapstick romantic comedy game has you explore an alternate history with your labmates and examine “What if” possibilities.
As Rintaro, the main character, you answer phone calls and make life decisions while creating your own story. This is a niche pick because only anime fans will like it. Check out the series to see whether you like it. If you can’t get enough, this game is worth it.
15. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy
Capcom released three Japanese visual novel adventure games called Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy. After being launched in Japan for the Game Boy Advance, the titles have been remastered for Nintendo DS, Switch, and Windows.
Phoenix Wright, a defense attorney, handles murder and theft cases in the games. Players must investigate crime scenes, question witnesses, and present evidence in court to exonerate their client.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy players utilize logic and evidence to cross-examine witnesses and reveal flaws in their testimony. The games include “Objection!” players must produce proof or use a character’s special ability to refute an opponent’s claim.
Quirkiness and humor are hallmarks of the Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy, which mixes serious courtroom drama with unusual characters and conversation. Game characters are stylized and have exaggerated personalities and expressions.
