Bandai Namco announces DEATH NOTE Killer Within, a new anime social deduction game

This year has been an absolutely incredible one for anime game fans, with continuous announcements and releases of anime/manga-based games like Hunter x Hunter: Neo Impact, Bleach Rebirth of Souls, and the recent, highly successful launch of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero. It appears the wave of anime/manga-based games shows no signs of stopping as, just recently, Bandai Namco surprised fans by releasing the trailer for their latest title, DEATH NOTE Killer Within, an online social deduction game for up to 10 players.

DEATH NOTE Killer Within is based on Death Note, a highly popular Japanese manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The story follows Light Yagami, a brilliant high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook called the "Death Note," which grants the user the supernatural ability to kill anyone whose name is written within its pages. The series centers on Light's attempts to use the Death Note to carry out a worldwide massacre and the efforts of an elite Japanese police task force, led by the enigmatic detective L, to capture him.

The DEATH NOTE Killer Within announcement trailer gives us a first look at the game’s art style and gameplay. It also reveals two iconic characters and rivals of the game, "Kira"—Light Yagami—and L. In DEATH NOTE Killer Within, Kira holds the Death Note and can kill a designated person and even choose their method of death, just like in the manga/anime. Meanwhile, L takes on the detective role, investigating everyone’s identities to find "Kira." A glimpse of the voting system is also shown, where players can vote on who they believe is "Kira." Although the voting system may seem similar to Among Us, the gameplay is far more complex and offers greater freedom, closer to Dale & Dawson Stationery Supplies.

Uncover the truth as L or deceive to win as Kira

In DEATH NOTE Killer Within, players will be divided into two teams with different objectives. To win, players must figure out each other’s identities and either eliminate L, who poses a threat to Kira's power, or seize the Death Note.

Players can assume one of four roles—Kira, Kira Follower, L, or Investigator—each offering unique gameplay characteristics. With each assigned role, players can develop a wide range of strategies as randomized scenarios unfold into high-stakes games. Additionally, players can customize their nameplates and in-game avatars with up to seven types of accessories and special effects displayed during key gameplay moments. The game also supports cross-play and voice chat between PC and PS4 / PS5.

If you’re a fan of online social deduction games or Death Note, then DEATH NOTE Killer Within is a must-play. The game is set to launch on November 5, 2024 on PC, PS4 and PS5. Be sure to use our price comparison tool to find the best deal for DEATH NOTE Killer Within.