Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a bigger, better version of its predecessor, even if it’s not exactly out here discovering new forms of demon slaying.

By building on the original and adapting some of the best arcs from the manga, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is pretty much a must for fans. As far as arena brawler goes, this is one of the better ones, although we still think combat can be a bit flat and woolly at times. But, with a wealth of single player content and so many characters to choose from, this is a worthy sequel to an already solid game.

Newcomers can expect an exciting adaptation of the anime relative to other games of its kind, and a shallow, but thrilling combat system that’s more interested in spectacle than challenge or raw skill. CyberConnect2 knows how to make an anime look rad and play well, and at the end of the day, that’s the assignment.

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 isn't trying to reinvent the wheel, but CyberConnect2 has once again proved that it doesn't need to.

CyberConnect2 took the formula from the first successful game and added even more polish and depth, making Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Hinokami Chronicles 2 a must-play if you’re already a fan, or have ever even simply been curious as to what all the fuss is about.

Hinokami Chronicles isn’t exactly the sequel I was hoping for. Alongside a campaign that is excellent in many respects, the game offers a graphical and technical compartment identical to the previous one, weighed down by substantial gameplay changes that result in frustrating and nerve-wracking battles. Online, victory basically goes to whoever has the most overtuned character and has memorized the longest combos with precision, effectively leaving the opponent with no chance to counterattack. As always, recommended for fans only.

Despite the oversaturation of anime fighting games, Kimetsu no Yaiba – Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles manages to stand out by offering an interactive immersion into the anime’s events. The game invests in ranked modes that demand planning and mastery of mechanics, a story mode that’s accessible even if you haven’t played the first title, and a robust roster of characters. Everything is polished and well-crafted. Still, it lacks a bit of boldness: the game favors fidelity and visual spectacle over truly challenging battles. For its target audience, this may not be an issue, but players seeking greater difficulty might feel that absence.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 puts story above all else. The game succeeds in retelling the anime with care, mixing anime footage and in-engine cutscenes into a production that feels true to the source. The combat is flashy and fun but shallow compared to the genre's heavyweights. For fans and newcomers alike, Chronicles 2 delivers a rich way to experience the story. It may not satisfy the hardcore fighting game crowd, but it does justice to one of anime’s most successful franchises.

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 delivers CyberConnect2’s trademark blend of cinematic spectacle and flashy combat, successfully capturing the anime’s visual flair while offering a massive roster and solid performance. Its accessible gameplay and roguelike Training Path mode add replay value, but the linear story design, filler collectibles, and reliance on recycled formulas keep it from feeling truly fresh. For fans of the anime or Ninja Storm series, it is a stylish crowd-pleaser. For others, it may feel more like déjà vu than evolution.

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 nails the presentation of its anime story arcs with gorgeous cutscenes and exciting boss fights. It’s a fun way to relive the series and mess around with a larger roster of characters. But online play is a hit-or-miss in some regions, there’s some elements which are tacked on, and the asking price is steep for what’s here. If you’re in it for story mode, it’s a solid time, but as a full package, it’s a harder sell.