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

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MONSTER

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles

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

2021

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Fighting, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 13, 2021

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Xbox One

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!

Elsewhere

8.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles are quite varied. Many critics praise the game for faithfully adapting the first season of the anime and the Mugen Train film, capturing the emotional and heartfelt moments of the story (GamingTrend, GAMINGbible, But Why Tho??). The game is commended for its beautiful 3D cutscenes and traditional cel-shaded look (Vooks), as well as its clean and vibrant in-game cutscenes (Xbox Tavern). The performances by the voice cast are also highlighted as top-notch (But Why Tho??). These positive aspects contribute to the game's ability to accurately resemble and encapsulate the events and essence of the anime (TheXboxHub, GameSpew). However, there are some criticisms regarding the story of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles. Some critics mention that the story is short and lacks depth (COGconnected), while others note that the story mode includes lengthy and unskippable cutscenes at the beginning (Movies Games and Tech, App Trigger). Some critics also feel that the game includes filler sections, such as cinematic QTEs and walking sections (Twinfinite), and that the storyline mode is not particularly exciting, with limited exploration opportunities (Worth Playing). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is a faithful retelling of the anime's key plot points (GamingBolt, Press Start Australia, Screen Rant). It effectively captures the emotional highs, themes of family and relationships, and the protagonist's mission to save his sister (GamingTrend, But Why Tho??). The game's ability to condense the narrative into condensed story scenes allows both fans and non-fans of the anime to enjoy and understand the story (Digitally Downloaded, TierraGamer). However, there are some criticisms regarding the length, depth, and pacing of the story, as well as the inclusion of filler sections. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is that the game does justice to the source material and provides an enjoyable storytelling experience for fans of Demon Slayer.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles. They praise its faithful adaptation of the anime but criticize its short story, lack of depth, and filler sections like unskippable cutscenes and limited exploration. Overall, the game captures the anime's essence but falls short in storytelling depth and pacing, though it still provides an enjoyable experience for fans.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

68%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles are varied, with both positive and negative aspects being highlighted. In terms of positives, many critics praised the accessibility and enjoyment of the combat system. Critics such as GamingBolt and GAMINGbible described the combat as satisfying and frenetic, with flashy and stylish moves that are easy to grasp. The Games Machine also commended the combat system for being immediate and unexpectedly deep, while Xbox Tavern highlighted the balanced flow of combat with various attack options and assist characters. Additionally, critics like Jeuxvideo.com and The Mako Reactor mentioned that the gameplay is fun and enjoyable. However, there were also criticisms regarding the gameplay. GamingTrend criticized the battle mechanics for being simplified and lacking complex combos, although they did mention the inclusion of special abilities and Ultimate Arts. Cubed3 described the combat system as stuttered, slow, and lacking dynamism or energy, with repetitive gameplay due to limited combos. MGG Spain also mentioned a lack of variety in combos and unbalanced attacks. TheXboxHub criticized the overuse of the main character and the need for more attacking options, while App Trigger found the combat to be enjoyable but lacking a clear identity. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles has its strengths and weaknesses. The combat system is generally praised for its accessibility and enjoyment, with flashy moves and satisfying mechanics. However, there are criticisms regarding the lack of depth, repetitive gameplay, and limited variety in combos. Despite these shortcomings, the game still manages to provide fun and engaging combat experiences, particularly in boss battles. It is worth noting that some critics, such as Worth Playing, found the combat to be straightforward and workmanlike, while others, like Screen Rant, appreciated the fast-paced and visually exciting combat.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on the gameplay of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles. Positive feedback highlights the accessible and enjoyable combat system with flashy moves, while negative feedback criticizes the lack of complexity and variety in combos. Despite its flaws, the game offers fun and engaging combat experiences, particularly in boss battles, but lacks depth and dynamism according to some critics.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics have expressed positive opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles. Many reviewers praised the game for its stunning presentation, with beautifully rendered 3D cutscenes, vivid colors, and faithful recreation of scenes from the anime. Critics such as Vooks and Xbox Tavern commended the high-quality character models and scenes that accurately depicted the anime. The cel-shaded art style was also highlighted as visually impressive by The Games Machine, with the manga-inspired visual design being faithful to the anime series, according to Jeuxvideo.com. The game successfully captured the visual flair of Demon Slayer, as mentioned by Press Start Australia, and the visuals were described as gorgeous and matching the anime by Screen Rant. The dazzling visuals and impressive boss fights with heavy cinematic sequences were also praised by Shacknews. The game's ability to capture the look and feel of the anime with fantastic presentation was acknowledged by Push Square. While the overall consensus of the critics leans towards positive opinions, there were a few criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of the game. TierraGamer mentioned that the graphics in the story mode were not as impressive, resembling a PS3 game. GAMINGbible criticized the open-world sections for feeling shallow and lacking immersion. Some reviewers, such as Twinfinite, noted similarities to CyberConnect2's previous work, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm, which may have affected the originality of the visual design. In conclusion, the graphics and visual design of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles were widely praised by the majority of the critics. The game's stunning presentation, faithful adaptation of the anime, and impressive boss fights were highlighted as positive aspects. Despite a few criticisms regarding certain aspects of the graphics, the overall consensus among the critics is that the game's visuals successfully capture the look and feel of the anime, making it a visually appealing experience for fans of the series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about Demon Slayer game's stunning visuals, faithful anime adaptation, and epic boss fights, praising its gorgeous 3D cutscenes, vivid colors, and manga-inspired art style. While some mention graphics flaws and lack of originality, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-play for fans of the series.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the sound design, voice acting, and music, highlighting them as strong aspects of the game. GamingBolt commends the voice acting, music, and graphics, while Xbox Tavern mentions that the music is beautifully choreographed and enhances the overall experience. TheXboxHub also praises the authentic voiceovers from the anime cast. These positive comments indicate that the sound design and music successfully capture the essence of the Demon Slayer series and contribute to the immersive gameplay experience. However, there are a few criticisms regarding the sound design in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles. MGG Spain points out that some special effects lack sound, which can detract from the overall experience. This suggests that there may be inconsistencies in the sound effects, potentially impacting the game's immersion. While this criticism is worth noting, it is important to mention that it does not overshadow the overall positive reception of the sound design and music. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles are exceptional. The positive comments from critics such as Cubed3, who mention that the developer has not forgotten what it has previously learned in terms of sound design, and Destructoid, who highlight the fantastic sound during boss battles, further support this consensus. Additionally, Noisy Pixel mentions the option to play with either Japanese or English dialogue, adding to the quality of the presentation. The majority of the critics agree that the sound design and music greatly contribute to the overall experience of the game, successfully immersing players in the world of Demon Slayer.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about the outstanding sound design and music in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles, praising the voice acting, music, and graphics as strong points. While some critics note minor sound design issues, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the sound and music capturing the essence of the series and enhancing gameplay immersion. Positive feedback highlights authentic voiceovers, beautifully choreographed music, and fantastic sound in boss battles, making the game a must-play for fans of Demon Slayer.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

91%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (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 has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the majority of critics. Many critics, such as GamingTrend and But Why Tho??, specifically highlight the use of the original voice actors from the anime, both in the Japanese and English versions of the game. This authenticity in casting allows for a faithful and immersive portrayal of the characters, enhancing the overall experience for players. TheXboxHub also mentions that the cutscenes in the game contribute to the accurate tone of emotions, further emphasizing the effectiveness of the voice acting in bringing the moments to life. There is a distinct lack of negative opinions regarding the voice acting in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles. None of the critics mentioned any issues or drawbacks with the voice performances. This suggests that the voice acting is consistently strong and well-executed throughout the game, leaving little room for criticism. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is exceptional. The praise for the original voice actors from the anime, the authenticity of the portrayals, and the enhancement of battles and emotional moments all contribute to the positive reception. Critics such as GamingBolt, Vooks, Cubed3, Destructoid, and Screen Rant all express their admiration for the voice acting, further solidifying the unanimous sentiment. With no negative opinions to counterbalance the positive ones, it is clear that the voice acting in this game is a standout aspect that greatly contributes to its overall quality.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics unanimously praise the exceptional voice acting in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles, highlighting the authentic portrayal of characters and emotional depth. Original voice actors from the anime add to the immersive experience, with no negative feedback indicating consistently strong performances throughout the game.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

27%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the Technical Performance on the Nintendo Switch, the majority of critics had positive opinions. COGconnected states that the game looks and plays great on the Nintendo Switch, both in handheld mode and docked. Jeuxvideo.com also mentions that the game performs well on the Nintendo Switch with a stable framerate and short loading times. This indicates that the game runs smoothly and provides an enjoyable experience on this platform. However, there were a few criticisms regarding the Technical Performance on the Nintendo Switch. GamingBolt mentions that the loading times are a bit long, which can be a minor inconvenience for players. GamingTrend also points out potential issues with technical performance or stability, such as awkward loading screens and random pauses. The Mako Reactor mentions some technical compromises and differences compared to other versions of the game, which suggests that the Nintendo Switch version may not be on par with other platforms in terms of technical performance. Moving on to the PlayStation platforms, Checkpoint Gaming's opinion on the PS4 version highlights control input delay in every mode, which can significantly impact the gameplay experience. On the other hand, Gamers Heroes states that the game runs well on the PS5, with hardly any lag. However, they do mention some lag in towns and open areas during the adventure mode, but no frame drops during fights. Press Start Australia also praises the rock-solid performance on the PS5, with no bugs encountered. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Technical Performance of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is generally positive, with some minor issues on certain platforms. The Nintendo Switch version is praised for its smooth gameplay and stable framerate, although there are mentions of long loading times and potential technical compromises. The PlayStation versions, particularly the PS5, are commended for their solid performance, with minimal lag and no significant issues. However, the PS4 version faces criticism for control input delay. Despite these minor drawbacks, the game's technical performance seems to be satisfactory across platforms, providing an enjoyable gaming experience for fans of the series.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics generally praise the technical performance of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation. Nintendo Switch offers smooth gameplay and stable framerate, but with long loading times and potential technical compromises. PlayStation, especially PS5, delivers solid performance with minimal lag, except for some issues on the PS4 like control input delay. Overall, the game provides an enjoyable gaming experience for fans, despite minor technical drawbacks on certain platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

15%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

15%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles are varied. Some critics, such as GamingBolt and Vooks, praise the game for its extensive content and replayability. They mention the ability to unlock different profile customizations, fighters, alternate costumes, and clone versions of characters, both through gameplay progression and future DLC. These features provide additional depth and variety to the gameplay experience, making it enjoyable for fans of the IP. However, other critics express concerns about the limited replay value of certain aspects of the game. COGconnected doubts that even devoted Demon Slayer fans will spend much time with the game due to the lack of content. Digitally Downloaded criticizes the multiplayer mode for being overly simple and not well balanced, which may deter fans of proper fighting games. Destructoid and Twinfinite highlight the limited character choices and roster options, which can restrict the overall replayability of the versus mode. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles offers some replay value through its unlockable content, additional playable characters, and online multiplayer modes. The game's story mode, while enjoyable for its fresh and enjoyable adventure, may lack replay value once completed. The limited character variety, unbalanced characters, and repetitive moves also hinder the overall replayability for some critics. However, the promise of future updates, DLC, and the potential addition of playable demon characters may enhance the replay value for fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Opinions on Demon Slayer game's replay value are mixed. Some praise its content and unlockables, while others criticize limited character choices and unbalanced multiplayer. Overall, the game offers replay value through unlockables and additional characters, but may lack variety and balance for some players.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles, it is clear that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider. Starting with the positives, many critics praised the game for its stunning visuals and faithful adaptation of the anime series. The Games Machine commends the game as a "faithful adaptation of the anime series, with impressive visuals and a deep combat system." TheXboxHub also highlights the "brilliant visuals, spot-on sound design, and thrilling combat." The game's presentation and ability to capture the look and feel of the anime were widely appreciated by critics such as Push Square and Screen Rant. Additionally, the game was commended for delivering satisfying fights and engaging gameplay, particularly for fans of the series. Vooks states that "fans of the anime will adore every second of this game," while Checkpoint Gaming describes it as a game focused on the thrill of battling against demons and looking cool while doing so. However, there were also several criticisms raised by reviewers. One common complaint was the lack of content and depth in the game. COGconnected mentions that the game lacks content and may not appeal to fans of either Demon Slayer or Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm. Cubed3 criticizes the story mode for having too little actual gameplay, and the combat system is described as slow, easy to abuse, and repetitive. Digitally Downloaded adds that the gameplay system feels dated and lacks originality. The limited roster of fighters and lack of replay value were also mentioned as drawbacks by TierraGamer and Twinfinite. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is a visually impressive and faithful adaptation of the anime series. It delivers satisfying fights and captures the look and feel of the source material. However, the game falls short in terms of content, depth, and gameplay mechanics, which may limit its appeal to fans of the franchise. While some critics recommend the game mainly for fans, others believe it can still be enjoyable for newcomers. The general sentiment is that the game has its strengths but also room for improvement in terms of gameplay variety and longevity.

TL;DR

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles impresses with stunning visuals and faithful adaptation of the anime, earning praise for engaging fights. However, critics point out shortcomings like lack of content, repetitive gameplay, and dated mechanics. While fans may enjoy the game, it falls short on depth and replay value, leaving room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

114 reviews found

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Nov 10, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is an enjoyable and amazing experience, especially for fans of the series. The flow of combat is addicting. The game's roster may not be as extensive as other games, but DLC is expected to address that.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Oct 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles is an exceptional game with excellent story, combat, visuals, and voice acting, despite some design issues.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Nov 5, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is a great anime-based fighting game with a fun story mode, refined combat, and beautiful visuals. It is highly recommended for fans of the franchise and worth trying even for non-fans.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Oct 27, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is a great experience for fans of the show, with a faithful recreation of the source material, brilliant visuals, spot-on sound design, and thrilling combat. The downsides include filler-like exploration sections and limited longevity post-story completion.

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But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Oct 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Hinokami Chronicles is an enjoyable arena fighter with a really intriguing story. The combat makes up for slower exploration moments. Fans of Demon Slayer and newcomers to the series will both enjoy this well-done fighting game.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fans of the Demon Slayer anime or fighting games in general will be happy with this game. It runs well and is mostly fun to play.

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Oct 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is a must-play for fans of the source material or arena fighters in general, despite some pacing and online performance issues.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Jun 13, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A very solid action game with a gripping story, thrilling combat, and a well-matched art style, despite some shallow combat and occasional performance issues.

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GamingBolt

Nintendo Switch

Jun 17, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Demon Slayer - Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Hinokami Chronicles is a fun and well-designed game, especially for fans of the IP.

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The Mako Reactor

Nintendo Switch

Jun 9, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review recommends the game for those who want a portable version on the Switch, but suggests getting it on more powerful consoles for better performance.

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