8Bit/Digi

Anime Expo 2022 was not just about learning what is new in the anime and manga industry but also a chance to play some upcoming video games. During the weekend, I got to try some amazing titles that are set to launch soon or are coming sometime in the future.

These are some of the games I got to check out during Anime Expo 2022.

On the Expo Floor

DNF Duel is the latest entry in the Dungeon and Fighter franchise that also saw a launch that weekend. Available at the Arc System Works booth, the full game was available to play, via the PlayStation 4. During my playthrough, I went up against two other players to get an idea of what to expect. It’s an easy-to-learn fighting game with amazing visual details and levels. Both players I fought against did defeat me but it was overall a good game. 

One Piece Odessey is a JRPG adaptation of the best-selling manga and the long-running anime series. Featuring an original story, players take on the role of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they have been brought to a mysterious island. The demo presented a sample of both the gameplay along with the world players will be exploring. 

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle R is a remaster of the fighting game adaptation of the iconic series. For those who never played the classic, it was a treat if they are fans of the series. For those who have played the original game, it was a familiar but more polished experience. 

Phantom Breaker: Omnia is a 2-D style fighting game that was available to play (via PlayStation 4) at the Rocket Panda Games booth. The game features 20 playable characters with gameplay designed around three different styles. Going against another player, it had its challenges at first but once you learn the key combos you will become a pro in battle. 

Tower of Fantasy is a free-to-play MMORPG that is currently available in China with a global launch planned sometime in 2022. Set on the planet Aida after a disaster, players must work to rebuild the world and battle the many hostile forces that have emerged. The demo allowed players to explore the map along with battle the many enemies that will be encountered. 

Special Sessions

These are games that I got to sample at a special event or press session during Anime Expo. They were not available to the general public during the weekend.  

SD Gundam: Battle Alliance brings the concept of the SD series into a fast-paced third-person squad-based experience. Players get the chance to relive iconic moments from the series while characters are swapped into the action. The demos available featured the tutorial along with two missions. The missions featured in the demo were based on Mobile Suit Gundam and Iron-Blooded Orphans. 

Inescapable is a thriller on par with Squid Games and Battle Royale. 11 people from around the world have been kidnapped and forced to participate in a reality TV show. There are no rules, anything goes and the last person standing will receive the cash prize. The demo presented highlighted the visual details and focused on the narrative direction along with the detective gameplay elements.

Did you get a chance to check out any of these games at Anime Expo 2022? If so then share your story in the comment section below.

Disclaimer: Anime Expo provided me with a pass for the weekend

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides an insight into the video game community and industry of the San Francisco Bay Area.