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Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 cover image

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MONSTER

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2
Item: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 5, 2025

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X

DeveloperCyberConnect2

Overview

Become the blade that destroys demons! In Solo Mode, follow Tanjiro through the story from the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaibaanime as he faces demons in order to turn his sister Nezuko, who has become a demon, back into a human. In Versus Mode, characters from the anime, including Tanjiro and Nezuko, can be freely matched against each another in a one-versus-one setting with up to two players online or offline! Enjoy this simple but exhilarating battle system, and become the greatest demon slayer you can!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

A love letter to fans with stunning visuals and faithful storytelling, but plagued by rushed pacing, repetitive beats, and linearity that limits its potential as a groundbreaking entry in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story mode of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is widely praised for its faithful adaptation of key anime arcs and its ability to immerse fans in the world of the series. Critics like But Why Tho? highlight that the narrative follows a chronological structure, focusing on pivotal events without unnecessary filler, while IGN Spain notes improved pacing and the inclusion of new content beyond the manga and anime. The game’s cinematic presentation is another standout, with LevelUp lauding its "impressive visuals and detailed cinematics," and Loot Level Chill appreciating the exploration, collectibles, and side quests that enrich the experience. Additionally, Siliconera and Gameliner commend the integration of secondary tasks and the ability to explore open areas, which add depth to the story mode despite its linear framework. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks, particularly regarding pacing, depth, and execution. Voxel criticizes the rushed adaptation of arcs, leaving "loose ends" due to the game’s adherence to the anime’s release schedule, while CGMagazine and Worth Playing note that the narrative feels repetitive and lacks the emotional weight of previous entries. Gamepressure and Gamereactor UK highlight underdeveloped mechanics and filler sections, such as "dull dialogue scenes" and unengaging fetch quests, which disrupt immersion. Additionally, Gamekult and Vandal argue that the story mode is constrained by its reliance on the source material, resulting in a "unsatisfactory conclusion" and limited character development. Many also mention that the game’s linearity—cited by LevelUp and GamerRD—restricts exploration, making it feel less dynamic compared to other action games. Overall, the critics agree that The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a strong adaptation for fans of the series but falls short in innovation and depth. While IGN France and Generación Xbox praise its respect for the lore and satisfying narrative beats, others like Noisy Pixel and SpazioGames argue that it misses opportunities to expand beyond the anime’s framework. The game is seen as a "love letter to fans" (LevelUp) but also a "poor way to fully experience Demon Slayer" (XboxEra) due to its constraints. Despite mixed opinions on pacing and originality, most acknowledge its value for longtime enthusiasts, even if it struggles to elevate the story beyond its source material. The consensus leans toward it being a competent follow-up rather than a groundbreaking entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Praised for accessible combat, fresh mechanics like Gear System/Dual Ultimates, and 40+ characters, but criticized for repetition, shallow depth, tech flaws, and underwhelming innovation—a polished yet unremarkable sequel that delights fans but falls short of groundbreaking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is widely praised for its accessibility, intuitive mechanics, and engaging combat system. Critics like CGMagazine and IGN Spain highlight the improved character roster and strategic depth through new equipment mechanics, while Voxel and LevelUp commend the simple yet dynamic controls and fluidity of combat. The introduction of features such as the Gear System (noted by But Why Tho?) and Dual Ultimates (mentioned by Gameliner and LevelUp) adds variety and tactical options, making the game appealing to both casual and returning players. Additionally, the mix of fighting and action-adventure elements, along with a roster of over 40 characters (as noted by Gamepressure), enhances replayability and provides a polished experience that balances simplicity with depth. Reviews from Worth Playing and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the game’s ability to offer strategic combat through combo chaining and character-specific abilities, reinforcing its appeal as a fun and immersive title. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks, including repetition, lack of innovation, and technical shortcomings. Final Weapon and Vgames criticize the repetitive nature of gameplay and underdeveloped exploration missions, while Gamekult and Gamepressure argue that unnecessary mechanics like gear systems and balance issues detract from the experience. Shacknews and COGconnected describe the combat as shallow, with IGN France noting that the minimalistic system may become monotonous over time. Technical issues also arise, such as camera problems (as highlighted by GameBlast) and subpar online netcode (Game8), which hinder the multiplayer experience. Additionally, some reviewers, like Gameliner and Vandal, feel that while the game retains core strengths, it fails to introduce meaningful new mechanics or elevate itself beyond its predecessor’s formula. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a solid, enjoyable entry in the series with a focus on accessibility and familiar combat mechanics. While many praise its improvements and character variety (as noted by IGN Spain and Gameliner), others argue it lacks the depth and innovation required to stand out as a groundbreaking fighting game. The game’s iterative enhancements—such as the Gear System and Dual Ultimates—receive mixed reactions, with some seeing them as welcome additions and others as superficial tweaks. Despite its flaws, the title is generally viewed as a fun, if unremarkable, experience that caters well to fans of the franchise and casual players, though it may struggle to satisfy hardcore fighting game enthusiasts seeking greater complexity (Gamepressure, COGconnected).

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics hailed The Hinokami Chronicles 2’s breathtaking cel-shaded graphics, fluid animations, and faithful anime adaptation, calling it a visual triumph with cinematic combat and stunning character design—yet technical hiccups, generic environments, and performance issues on some platforms tempered its perfection.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 for its exceptional graphics and visual design, emphasizing its faithful adaptation of the anime’s aesthetic. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlighted the game’s “fluid animations and character designs that closely resemble their anime counterparts,” while Voxel called it “stunning” and noted its ability to “capture the essence of the series.” The cel-shaded visuals were consistently lauded, with LevelUp praising the “beautiful cel-shaded graphics” and IGN Spain commending the “high-quality character models and animations.” On PS5, critics such as Gamereactor UK noted a solid 60fps during combat, enhancing the cinematic feel, while Push Square pointed to sharper visual fidelity compared to the previous game. CGMagazine and Gameliner also highlighted the “stylish visuals” and “fluid animations,” reinforcing the consensus that the game’s art direction successfully translates the anime’s vibrant style into a playable format. However, some criticisms emerged regarding technical limitations and environmental design. On the Nintendo Switch, Loot Level Chill criticized “blurry character models and inferior graphics,” while Shacknews noted “environmental texture downgrades.” On PS5, Game8 mentioned “low-poly textures” and “janky NPC models,” and Eurogamer Portugal pointed to “lacking environments” despite strong character animations. Vgames criticized the “lackluster” story scene animations, comparing them to a “PowerPoint presentation,” while Multiplayer.it and Vandal noted that exploration areas felt generic or uninspired. Additionally, Worth Playing pointed out performance issues in crowded scenes, with special move cutscenes locked at 30fps on PC. These critiques suggest that while the game’s visual design excels in key moments, some technical compromises and repetitive environments detract from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, the overwhelming majority of critics viewed the graphics and visual design as a strong achievement. IGN and IGN Italia praised the “beautifully animated” cutscenes and “fluid, detailed animations,” while Gamekult highlighted CyberConnect2’s “expertise in digital pyrotechnics.” Even on less powerful platforms like the Switch, Final Weapon noted that the game “runs smoothly without dipping below 30 FPS,” and Gameliner emphasized its “high production value.” While some reviewers, like Generación Xbox, acknowledged simplifications in environments, the consensus remains that The Hinokami Chronicles 2 delivers a visually impressive adaptation of the anime, with its cel-shaded art style and dynamic combat sequences standing out as major strengths. The critiques, though valid, are often framed as minor trade-offs in an otherwise stellar visual presentation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics hailed The Hinokami Chronicles 2's sound design and music as immersive, faithful to the anime’s soul, blending traditional Japanese instruments with orchestral flair and stellar voice work—especially the Japanese dub—but noted issues like repetitive tracks, uneven English voicework, and missed localization opportunities.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 received largely positive acclaim, with critics highlighting its strong connection to the source material and immersive qualities. CGMagazine praised the soundtrack for drawing from the show’s orchestral elements, noting it “works well” despite occasional repetition. Voxel emphasized that the original anime soundtrack enhances the experience, while Worth Playing lauded the “excellent sound design” and impactful effects, complemented by strong voice acting. Final Weapon and IGN Spain both noted the music’s resemblance to previous CyberConnect2 titles, which they felt elevated the gameplay. Atomix and COGconnected appreciated the blend of traditional Japanese instruments and anime adventure tones, with Game8 specifically praising the “phenomenal” Japanese dub and original soundtrack. The consistent use of the original seiyūs (voice actors) was a recurring highlight, as noted by IGN France and Hobby Consolas, who emphasized their role in adding authenticity and immersion. However, some critics pointed to notable drawbacks. GamingBolt criticized the English voice acting for being “unconvincing,” citing excessive shouting and exaggerated emoting that detracted from the experience. CGMagazine also mentioned the soundtrack’s repetitiveness during longer gameplay sessions, a concern echoed by Game8, which suggested more original tracks would have been appreciated. While most reviewers praised the Japanese dub, GameBlast noted the absence of Portuguese voiceovers or text, highlighting localization gaps. Additionally, IGN and IGN France acknowledged that specific sound design details were not extensively explored, leaving some aspects of the audio experience underdeveloped. These critiques, though less frequent, underscored areas where the game’s audio could have been more polished or varied. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the soundtrack and sound design being celebrated for their fidelity to the anime’s aesthetic and emotional tone. The use of traditional Japanese instruments, orchestral arrangements, and the original voice cast created a cohesive and immersive atmosphere that resonated with fans. While some reviewers noted minor issues—such as repetitive music or uneven voice acting in English—the majority viewed the audio elements as a strong pillar of the game’s success. Critics like IGN Spain, Multiplayer.it, and Vandal emphasized how the sound design enhanced storytelling and action sequences, reinforcing the game’s identity as a faithful adaptation. Despite the occasional critique, the collective praise for the music and voice acting solidified its role as a standout feature in The Hinokami Chronicles 2.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is universally praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, with original anime cast performances—especially Natsuki Hanae’s Tanjiro—highlighted as standout. Japanese tracks are lauded for fidelity, while English dub, though occasionally criticized for inconsistencies and over-the-top delivery, remains a strong complement. Features like unlockable lines and improved vocal delivery enhance immersion, making voice work a key strength despite minor flaws in the English version.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, with multiple critics highlighting the contributions of both English and Japanese casts. Reviewers like CGMagazine, Worth Playing, and Final Weapon emphasize that the original anime voice actors deliver strong performances, enhancing narrative immersion and character development. IGN Spain and Gamereactor UK note the authenticity added by the original cast, while Game8 specifically commends Natsuki Hanae’s portrayal of Tanjiro for capturing emotional nuance. The inclusion of both English and Japanese voice tracks is frequently cited as a strength, with Vandal and Generación Xbox praising their quality and ability to deepen player engagement. Additionally, features like unlockable character lines (Loot Level Chill) and improved vocal delivery (Multiplayer.it) further enrich the experience for fans. However, some critics point to inconsistencies in the English voice acting, which occasionally detract from immersion. COGconnected criticizes the English dub as "poor" and distracting, while GamingBolt notes a lack of conviction in intense scenes, suggesting it may not appeal to all players. IGN also mentions issues with excessive internal monologue and yelling, which could disrupt the flow of key moments. These critiques highlight that while the Japanese voice acting is universally lauded for its fidelity to the source material, the English version faces scrutiny for its execution, particularly in high-stakes sequences. Such feedback underscores a divide between fans who prioritize linguistic accessibility and those who value strict adherence to the anime’s vocal style. Overall, the critical consensus leans heavily toward admiration for the game’s voice acting, with most reviewers emphasizing its role in elevating storytelling and character authenticity. While COGconnected and GamingBolt raise valid concerns about the English dub, these are outliers compared to the broader praise from outlets like IGN France, Gamepressure, and XboxEra, which highlight the seamless integration of both language tracks. The majority agree that the voice acting—whether in Japanese or English—effectively conveys the emotional weight of the narrative, making it a standout feature of the game. This balance between technical quality and fan service ensures that the voice work remains a pivotal strength, even as minor flaws in the English version remain notable.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Despite mixed results, The Hinokami Chronicles 2 shines on PS5 with silky 60fps and polish, while PC and Switch deliver solid but flawed experiences. Xbox Series X stumbles badly with instability and frame drops, dragging down an otherwise technically strong release.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 receives generally positive feedback across platforms, though with nuanced variations. On PC, critics like But Why Tho? and CGMagazine praise the game’s stable frame rates and brief load times, while Worth Playing highlights its smooth performance on the Steam Deck despite minor pauses during exploration. For Nintendo Switch, Final Weapon and IGN Spain note consistent stability and good resolution in both handheld and docked modes, though LevelUp mentions slight frame drops during intense action in handheld mode. On PS5, multiple reviewers—such as Gamepressure, Gamereactor UK, and IGN Italia—highlight smooth performance, stable 60fps support, and fluid animations, with Multiplayer.it emphasizing consistent frame rates. The Xbox Series X version, however, faces criticism from Generación Xbox, which points to unexpected frame rate drops and instability despite the console’s capabilities. Negatives are more pronounced on specific platforms. On PC, Voxel raises concerns about online mode performance, referencing past issues with CyberConnect2 games, while But Why Tho? notes a lack of PC-specific visual and performance settings. For Switch, LevelUp and Loot Level Chill point to limitations in the handheld version, including frame drops during action and technical constraints. On PS5, several critics highlight issues: Game8 criticizes poor netcode leading to lag spikes, GameBlast mentions camera problems during boss battles, and Hobby Consolas reports frame rate drops and pop-in due to the new engine. The Xbox Series X version faces the most significant criticism, with Generación Xbox noting unexplained instability and frame rate issues that detract from the experience. Overall, the consensus leans positive, with most platforms receiving praise for stability and performance. The PS5 version is particularly lauded for its smooth 60fps gameplay (Multiplayer.it, IGN Italia) and improved technical execution compared to previous entries (Push Square). While PC and Switch versions have minor drawbacks—such as limited settings or handheld-specific issues—their core performance remains solid. However, the Xbox Series X version stands out as a weaker entry, with Generación Xbox calling for improvements. Critics like Gamekult and Hobby Consolas note that even on PS5, technical hiccups persist, but these are largely overshadowed by the game’s overall polish. The mixed reception underscores the importance of platform-specific optimizations, yet the majority of reviewers agree that The Hinokami Chronicles 2 delivers a technically strong experience across most systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hinokami Chronicles 2 delivers robust replayability through diverse modes, a 40+ character roster, and rogue-like challenges, but repetitive combat and shallow solo content limit its appeal, relying heavily on multiplayer and fan enthusiasm to sustain interest.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The positive aspects of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2’s replay value are highlighted by multiple reviewers who emphasize its diverse modes and unlockable content. Critics like Worth Playing and IGN Spain praise the game’s large character roster, arcade mode, and online play as key drivers of longevity, while Loot Level Chill notes that over 40 characters and collectibles cater to completionists. Shacknews and Push Square highlight robust training paths and offline modes, such as Hashira Training, which offer structured challenges for players seeking progression. Additionally, IGN France and TheSixthAxis commend the rogue-like training mode and randomized battles, adding variety to repeated playthroughs. These elements collectively suggest a game designed to reward exploration and experimentation, particularly for fans of the franchise. However, several critics point to limitations in replay value, citing repetitive gameplay and shallow content. But Why Tho? argues that sidequests and challenges lack depth, while CGMagazine and Voxel describe the experience as “safe” and “familiar,” failing to engage players beyond the core audience. Vgames criticizes the absence of cross-play and limited multiplayer options, which could hinder long-term appeal, and Checkpoint Gaming notes that practice modes become repetitive after a short time. Gamekult and COGconnected further highlight shallow customization and insufficient solo content, suggesting that the game’s replayability hinges on its multiplayer aspects rather than robust single-player depth. These critiques underscore concerns about the game’s ability to sustain interest for all player types. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward acknowledging the game’s replay value as conditional. While IGN, PLAY! Zine, and Generación Xbox praise the character diversity, modes, and online engagement for keeping players invested, others like Vandal and Gamepressure caution that the content may not satisfy hardcore gamers or those seeking deeper mechanics. The game’s replayability seems to depend on player preferences: casual fans and enthusiasts of multiplayer will find ample incentives, but critics agree that its long-term appeal is limited by repetitive combat and insufficient solo progression. Ultimately, The Hinokami Chronicles 2 offers a solid foundation for replayability through its modes and unlockables, but its success in retaining players hinges on individual tolerance for repetition and reliance on community-driven content.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is largely positive, with critics praising its improvements over the original and its dedication to fans of the franchise. Many highlight its engaging narrative, expanded character roster, and polished gameplay mechanics. For instance, IGN Spain and IGN France commend the game for addressing previous shortcomings, offering a satisfying story mode and improved visuals. Voxel and LevelUp note the accessible yet refined combat system, while Worth Playing emphasizes the addition of new characters and modes that enhance replayability. The game’s faithful adaptation of the source material, including its richly detailed environments and dynamic battle sequences, is frequently lauded, with IGN Italia and Multiplayer.it pointing to its immersive storytelling and visual fidelity. Critics like But Why Tho? also acknowledge the game’s narrative depth, calling it a standout for fans despite minor imperfections. However, several critics point out notable flaws that limit the game’s appeal beyond its core audience. A recurring criticism is the lack of innovation in gameplay mechanics, with CGMagazine and Final Weapon noting that the sequel “plays it safe” without introducing bold changes to the arena fighter formula. Issues like repetitive combat loops, limited content depth, and technical shortcomings are also highlighted. Vgames criticizes animation issues and the absence of cross-play, while Gamekult and GamerSpew point to a weak story and static storytelling that may frustrate players seeking more ambition. Additionally, Shacknews and Siliconera mention padding in the story mode, suggesting the game feels overly long or repetitive at times. Critics like Areajugones and Atomix also note that the game’s reliance on franchise knowledge makes it less accessible to newcomers, further narrowing its appeal. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is that The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a strong, fan-focused sequel that successfully builds on its predecessor. While it doesn’t revolutionize the genre, it delivers a satisfying experience for enthusiasts of the Demon Slayer universe. IGN, Multiplayer.it, and Vandal all emphasize its value as a must-play for fans, praising its expanded lore, combat variety, and visual polish. However, many caution that its limitations—such as gameplay repetition and narrative constraints—make it less appealing to broader audiences. The game is seen as a competent, if unoriginal, entry in the arena fighter genre, with COGconnected and Eurogamer Portugal noting its safe approach but undeniable appeal to dedicated followers of the series. Overall, while not perfect, the title is widely regarded as a worthwhile investment for fans seeking a deeper dive into the Demon Slayer world.

TL;DR

Critics praise The Hinokami Chronicles 2 as a polished, fan-focused sequel with improved storytelling, expanded characters, and refined combat, but its safe approach, repetitive mechanics, and reliance on franchise knowledge limit broader appeal—delivering a satisfying yet unoriginal experience for dedicated fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

80 reviews found

IGN France

PlayStation 5

Jul 31, 2025