15 Best PlayStation 1 Anime Games

Within only a few years after its official launch, the PS1 became a bastion for some of the best anime games ever created. The year was 1995, a time when anime was experiencing rapid growth both in critical acclaim and financial success. This era witnessed the release of numerous iconic anime series, including beloved titles like Cowboy Bebop, Rurouni Kenshin, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Yu Yu Hakusho, and many more.

While it’s true that some of the showcased games may feel antiquated to those accustomed to modern graphics and refined controls, a plethora of other titles from that era still hold up exceptionally well even in today’s gaming landscape.

If you’re an anime or manga fan, you’ll find a diverse range of genres to choose from in the list of best anime games on the PlayStation 1. Additionally, I’ll make it a point to inform you about any Japan-exclusive anime games that have received English fan translations. Here, without delving into specific details, are some noteworthy anime games on the PS1.

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Ghost in the Shell® 1997

About
	Release Date July 17, 1997
	Developer Exact
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Franchise Ghost in the Shell
	Genre Vehicular Combat
	Graphics 3D
	Perspectives First-Person, Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1997-07-17
1997-12-02
1998-07-01

The Ghost in the Shell franchise is well-known for its iconic anime and manga, but the vehicular combat game of the same name on the PlayStation 1 holds no direct connection to the source material. Instead, it features a fully original story, with Masamune Shirow, the creator of Ghost in the Shell, serving as the main designer for the characters and mecha within the game. While the game may not be directly tied to the established narrative of the franchise, it still offers a unique and original experience for fans and players to enjoy.

One of the captivating aspects of this game is its immersive cutscenes. Each FMV (Full Motion Video) is animated in an anime style, which is a treat for anime enthusiasts.  Moreover, the gameplay itself is a strong asset of this title. It introduces a dual-perspective camera system, allowing players to seamlessly switch between first-person and third-person modes on the fly. The combat in the game is fast-paced, requiring quick reflexes and strategic manoeuvres. Players will find themselves engaged in thrilling battles, taking down a variety of enemies while skillfully evading their attacks. Seriously, if you love anime and Ghost in the Shell, there’s no reason not to play this game.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories 1999 遊戯王真デュエルモンスターズ封印されし記憶 (Yu-Gi-Oh! Shin Duel Monsters)

About
	Release Date December 09, 1999
	Developer Konami Computer Entertainment Japan
	Publisher Konami
	Genre Card
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Top-Down
	Interaction Turn-Based
	Concept Anime
	Players 1v1, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-12-09
2002-03-20
2002-11-22
2002-11-27
2003-04-21

Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories will put your knowledge of the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe to the test as you find yourself pitted against one of the most unforgiving duelists ever. These ruthless opponents will stop at nothing until you and your cards are sent to the grave. (Looking at you, Pegasus)

Unlike the newest instalments in the Yu-Gi-Oh! game franchise, Forbidden Memories and The Duelists of the Roses are one of the toughest card games ever made. Right from the get-go, every opponent poses a formidable challenge, pushing your skills to their limits as you engage in breathtaking matches. If you enjoy card games and are looking for a truly challenging experience, Forbidden Memories is a wonderful choice that will present you with the ultimate challenge.

Digimon™ World 1998

About
	Release Date January 28, 1998
	Developer B.B. Studio
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre Action Adventure
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Isometric
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-01-28
2000-05-23
2001-07-06

Digimon World is the game you should dive into if you can’t have enough of the Pokémon or Monster Rancher series. In this action RPG, you are the hero, and alongside your Digimon pets, you’ll embark on a mission to save File Island and help the Digimons to regain their lost memories.

In Digimon World, like many action RPGs, your Digital Monster will undergo evolution as you progress through the game. However, to obtain the strongest Digimon, players must handle these delicate creatures with care. By feeding them, training them, and putting their skills to the test, these adorable monsters will become your trump card in overcoming all challenges.

Inuyasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale 2002

About
	Release Date December 05, 2002
	Developer Dimps
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Graphics 2D
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
2002-12-05
2003-04-10

Inuyasha A Feudal Fairy Tale is a game adaptation of Rumiko Takahashi’s popular Inuyasha manga. The story follows the events of the source material, with Inuyasha, Kagome, and their friends embarking on a quest to retrieve the missing shards of the sacred Jewel of Four Souls before the wicked Naraku seizes them for his own sinister purposes.

Although some fans may have hoped for a full-blown action JRPG in the style of the Tales of series, Inuyasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale still offers a decent 2D fighting experience with beautiful pixel graphics and robust controls. While it may not fulfil every fan’s expectations, the game’s visually appealing art style and well-designed combat mechanics make for an enjoyable gameplay experience, especially in one-on-one battles against friends.

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure 1999 ジョジョの奇妙な冒険 (Jojo No Kimyō Na Bōken)

About
	Release Date October 14, 1999
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Franchise JoJo's Bizarre Adventure
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Players Multiplayer, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-10-14
2000-03-31

Jojo’ Bizarre Adventure is yet another solid anime-fighting game that thrusts players into the world (Za Warudo!) of the eccentric Joestars and their bizarre adventures. For fighting enthusiasts, this game is a must-play, and who knows, maybe it could act as a gateway for you to delve into the anime and later on, the manga.

Hailed as one of the best games to be developed by Capcom, Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure was first released in the arcades and then later ported to the original PlayStation. The game plays well, and it runs smoothly without any significant hiccups even during intense fist clashing, which makes the experience even better. With over 21 playable characters to choose from, you’ll have a blast from start to finish in Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure. Especially with a friend if you opt for a couch Co-Op match.

Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Battle 22 1995

About
	Release Date July 28, 1995
	Developer Tose
	Publisher Bandai
	Franchise Dragon Ball
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Anime
	Players 1v1, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1995-07-28
2003-03-25

Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Battle 22 delivers exactly what fans of the DBZ series would expect. It offers a diverse roster of characters to choose from, stunning pixel graphics, and the ability to unleash devastating combos that can send your opponent soaring through the air or even to another planet with a powerful blast.

From the 90s up to the present day, the Dragon Ball Z franchise has seen numerous iterations across various genres. Whether it’s the action RPG experience of Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot, the card-based battles of Super Dragon Ball Heroes, or the platforming adventures of Dragon Ball Origins, the franchise has successfully expanded into different territories. However, for fans who relish the thrill of jaw-breaking action, Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Battle 22 delivers precisely that.

Monster Rancher 2 1999

About
	Release Date February 25, 1999
	Developer Tecmo
	Publisher Tecmo
	Genre Turn-Based Strategy
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Turn-Based
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-02-25
1999-08-31
2000-10-20

Monster Rancher 2 acts as the second instalment in the franchise, and the game in the series to release in Europe. Similar to Digimon and Pokémon, Monster Rancher 2 sees players fighting, raising and breeding monsters that would prove useful towards the entirety of the game.

Even if you’re new to the concept of monster breeding and related mechanics, Monster Rancher 2 is designed to be accessible and easy to grasp. The game simplifies its mechanics to a point where they become easy to understand and master. This approach allows newcomers to quickly learn the ropes and enjoy the game without feeling overwhelmed by complex systems.

Note: Monster Rancher 2 isn’t based on anime or manga. It is after the success of the game that an anime adaptation would become a reality. Still, since this list focuses on the best anime games on the PlayStation, we included it since it falls into that category.

Gundam: Battle Assault / Gundam: Battle Assault 2 1998 / 2002

About
	Release Date March 12, 1998
	Developer Natsume
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Players Multiplayer, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-03-12
2000-11-06
2001-12-21

About
	Release Date July 17, 2002
	Developer Natsume
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Players Multiplayer, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
2002-07-17
2002-10-10

Gundam Battle Assault is yet another good 2D fighter, but this time it features powerful mechs fighting each other until one of them blows to bits. Fans of anything Mech-related should definitely check out these two games on the PlayStation.

Gundam Battle Assault provides a simple yet exhilarating objective: engage in intense one-on-one battles and annihilate your opponent for triumph. To many, Gundam Battle Assault is one of the best things to happen to the Gundam franchise. It’s unfortunate that there hasn’t been a 2D fighting Gundam game since the original PlayStation. However, fret not.  Because you can always relive the excitement of this fantastic fighter by revisiting the past and experiencing it on your PlayStation console anytime.

Dr. Slump 1999

About
	Release Date March 18, 1999
	Developer Bandai
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre Action RPG
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-03-18

Dr. Slump features the adorable adventures of Arale, the lovable robot created by inventor Senbei Norimaki. In this charming action RPG, players take control of Arale as she explores the land, engaging in conversations with various NPCs, embarking on quests, and much more.

Serving as a faithful game adaptation of the 1997 Dr. Slump remake, this title remains exclusive to Japan and has not officially received an English release since 1999. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of fans, the game has been fully translated, sparing you the need to consult a Japanese dictionary at every turn. Without any language boundaries, you may now completely enjoy this amazing game experience.

Fan English Translation: Yes

Initial D 1999

About
	Release Date January 07, 1999
	Developer Kodansha
	Publisher Kodansha
	Genre Arcade Racing
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-01-07

Initial D may initially appear as your typical Deja Vu arcade racer, but trust us when we say it’s more than that. It’s more entertaining when you’ve watched the anime or listened to the Deja Vu song for hours on end!

At the moment, an official fan English translation for the game has not been released. However, you may still play the game from start to finish. It’s important to note that without a fan translation, you may not fully grasp the game’s plot.

For long-time fans of the franchise, navigating through the game will likely feel like a breeze. However, newcomers may face challenges and find it more difficult to understand the game without prior knowledge. That said, if the story isn’t a priority for you, playing Initial D should pose no significant difficulties., given their familiarity with the series.

Fan English Translation: No

Bakusou Kyoudai Let's & Go!! Eternal Wings 1998

About
	Release Date July 30, 1998
	Developer Jaleco
	Publisher Jaleco
	Genre Arcade Racing
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-07-30

Bakusou Kyoudai Let’s & Go Eternal Wings is another great anime game on this list. It’s an arcade racer based on the Bakusou Kyoudai franchise created by Mangaka Koshita Tetsuhiro, who is well-known for his work on the Honoo no Toukyuuji Dodge Danpei manga.

Despite being based on the manga of the same name, Eternal Wings features a unique tale to which creator Koshita Tetsuhiro actively contributed during game production. The creators went above and beyond by enlisting the talents of renowned singer Hironobu Kageyama to create an enthralling opening sequence.

In addition, another Bakusou Kyoudai game is available for the original PlayStation. Unfortunately, neither of these games has received a fan English patch as of yet, and it is unknown when or if one will be released.

Fan English Translation: No

Shaman King: Spirit of Shamans 2002

About
	Release Date June 06, 2002
	Developer Dimps
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
2002-06-06

Shaman King: Spirit of Shamans has long been in need of a fan English patch since its original release in 2002. This is another 2D anime fighter. It may not be particularly exceptional, but it still offers a decent experience.

Spirit of Shamans was created by Dimps and uses the same engine as was used to create Inuyasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale. Both of which have a plethora of characters to choose from as well as amazing pixel graphics for any throwback player out there. Luckily, with Shaman King Spirit of Shamans, you don’t need prior knowledge to Japanese to enjoy the game.

Fan English Translation: No

Cyborg Kuro-chan Returns 2002

About
	Release Date November 28, 2002
	Developer Aspect, Konami Computer Entertainment Japan
	Publisher Konami
	Genre Run & Gun
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
2002-11-28

Cyborg Kuro-Chan Returns chronicles the mischievous escapades of a formerly ordinary cat who undergoes a transformation into a cyborg by the nefarious scientist, Doctor White Woods. Equipped with newfound powers, Kuro, alongside his friends, embarks on thrilling adventures to thwart Doctor White Woods’ plans of world domination.

Cyborg Kuro-Chan Returns, based on the 1997 manga by Naoki Yokouchi, is a visually appealing run-and-gun game. In a style reminiscent of the classic Mega Man series, players navigate through 2D environments, shooting foes on the screen, collecting pickups, and confronting challenging bosses at the end of each stage. While it may lack a fan English translation, the game is still accessible and enjoyable even without prior knowledge of the Japanese language.

Fan English Translation: No

Animetic Story Game 1: CardCaptor Sakura / Card Captor Sakura: Clow Card Magic 1999 / 2000

About
	Release Date August 05, 1999
	Developer Arika
	Publisher Arika
	Genre Action Adventure
	Graphics 2D
	Perspectives Isometric, Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-08-05

About
	Release Date January 27, 2000
	Developer Arika
	Publisher Arika
	Genre Puzzle
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
2000-01-27

Card Captor Sakura: Clow Card Magic offers a set of several mini-games within a single package. Based on the adorable Cardcaptor Sakura manga series created by the Clamp group, Cardcaptor Sakura is a cute game worth playing during the weekends.

Clow Card Magic has yet to be translated, but there is a fan English translation of Animetic Story Game 1: Card Captor Sakura. Although it is more of an adventure game, it is a blast to play through while waiting for the other two Cardcaptor Sakura games for the PlayStation to be translated.

Fan English Translation: Yes

Macross VF-X 2 1999

About
	Release Date September 02, 1999
	Developer Unit
	Publisher Bandai
	Genre Vehicular Combat
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-09-02

Macross VF-X 2 is one of the few Japan-exclusive anime games on this list that was once rumoured to have a planned Western release. It’s a shame because this is an excellent aerial combat video game.

Macross is a superb third-person vehicle combat game on the original PlayStation, based on the highly popular sci-fi manga franchise created by Shoji Kawamori and Artland in 1982. Anyone who like automobile combat games will undoubtedly enjoy this platform’s buried gem.

Fan English Translation: No

Thank you for reading. That’s it for the list. More to come, soon!