When a feature film comes out with an accompanying game, the game usually suffers in overall quality. That was the case, at least, in the PS2 to PS3/ Xbox to Xbox 360 era. And while Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- Hinokami Chronicles 2 isn’t exactly marketed as an accompanying game to Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, the events of the two pieces of media lead directly to each other. 

The story mode of Hinokami Chronicles 2 (This is what we’ll call the game henceforth) covers the Entertainment District, Swordssmith Village, and Hashira Training Arcs. All these lead up to the events of Infinity Castle (This is what we’ll call the feature film henceforth). Suffice to say, if you’re a Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- fan, you’re eating well. 

Before AND after? 

Yes, you read that right. Hinokami Chronicles 2 is great both before and after watching Infinity Castle despite the events of the game being those that directly preceded the film. 

I say this because this is exactly how I experienced the two Demon Slayer offerings. I was in the middle of my Story Mode playthrough when I received an early screening invitation for Infinity Castle. 

For the film, it’s important that you’re at least caught up with the anime. That’s really all you need to fully enjoy both Demon Slayer things. 

READ: Now Playing: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

I’ve been quite busy preparing for a couple of overseas coverages when I received the code to review Hinokami Chronicles 2. That’s why when the invite to watch the film came, I was still very early on in the story mode. 

I had hoped to finish the game prior but my schedule just didn’t allow for it. Fortunately, it didn’t sour my experience of either the game nor the film. 

After seeing Infinity Castle, I was even more hyped to immerse myself in more Demon Slayer things. Thankfully, Hinokami Chronicles 2 was right there to satisfy my craving. 

Hinokami Chronicles 2: Visual stunner

The game is stylish and visually striking! Aniplex and CyberConnect2 is top-of-the-hill when it comes to presentation of anime in games. Hinokami Chronicles 2 is just another testament to that. 

Each move, every attack, and all the specials scream “Sakuga” with how much of a feast to the eyes they are. With over 40 characters to choose from -each one feeling mostly unique- you’ll find yourself burning a few hours on the game pretty easily.

The game also added Dual Ultimates. These are extra flashy finishing moves if you pair the right characters together. Finding the right pairs and executing their specials is one of the many thrills of the game.

Better than Hinokami Chronicles 1?

I never really got to play the first game so I can’t comment substantially about the changes. I will say, though, that the Story Mode does feel robust. 

To keep players engaged, some key moments offer some changes that will certainly elicit a reaction from the player. Won’t spoil any of them here. It’s best experienced while playing! 

Based on what I’ve read and seen from other reviews so far, it appears that Hinokami Chronicles 2 is an excellent refinement of the first game. That’s usually the case with good sequel games – especially with those that you already know the story of. 

The game does mix things up when you get to the Hashira Training Arc. It offers a roguelike mode which is perfect for upping the game’s replayability. 

Core gameplay 

If you’ve played arena fighting games before, then this game will feel familiar. I, for one, have spent significant time playing the My Hero Academia: One’s Justice and Naruto Storm games, among others. 

Hinokami Chronicles 2 offers technical differences but the general gameplay will be relatively easy to pick up if you’ve played similar games before. 

Crowding, when to attack, when to pull-back, and when to unleash your devastating special attacks will all be determined by your innate action fighting game timing. 

It’s easy to feel that you’re pretty good at the game early on. However, there are a handful of mini bosses and boss level battles in the story mode that will truly test you.

Infinity Castle DLC?

Many are already speculating that there will be some Infinify Castle DLC down the line. After all, I’m sure many Demon Slayer fans will be itching to recreate the match-ups in the film.

While I am personally hopeful, my gut tells me that the entire Infinity Castle Arc will be a third game that will come out at around the same time that the third film in the Infinity Castle trilogy will be released in theaters. 

I would point to My Hero Academia which is doing exactly just that. It’ll certainly build up anticipation for both the game and the ending of the story if they execute it this way. 

Should you play Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- Hinokami Chronicles 2?

If you’re a Demon Slayer fan AND a gamer, this isn’t even a question. It’s an easy Super Swipe. The game lets you relive key battles in the anime while also letting you play out ‘fantasy matches’ in the versus fighting mode. 

The game is now available on PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. If you can get it on the current generation platforms, definitely go for that. If you’re on the Nintendo Switch 2, maybe wait for a version that’s actually made for the platform. The current one available on the Switch just isn’t as visually good as the current gen version. 

All told, it’s a fantastic anime arena fighting game that will have you conjuring your own breathing forms as you play.