In this exclusive interview, the team behind Kaiju No. 8 THE GAME shares insights into the development process, the collaboration with the original manga creator Naoya Matsumoto, and the unique features of the game. From turn-based combat designed to highlight character abilities to original storylines that expand the Kaiju No. 8 universe, the game aims to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers.
With returning voice actors, character-focused side quests, and a strong transmedia approach, the team promises an immersive experience that complements the anime and manga. Kaiju No. 8 THE GAME is set for release on August 31, offering players a chance to engage directly with epic battles and rich storytelling.
Official Trailer:
AnimeTV: To begin, please introduce yourself and briefly describe your role in the development of Kaiju No. 8 THE GAME?
I am serving as a producer at Akatsuki Games, where I have overseen numerous promotional and marketing initiatives both domestically and internationally. For Kaiju No.8 THE GAME, I am responsible for managing all communications, advertising, and event initiatives leading up to release, with the goal of delivering the appeal of this title to as many people as possible.
What inspired you to adapt Kaiju No. 8 into a game? Was it a studio initiative or part of a broader editorial strategy?
This project began when we were approached during the stage in which TOHO and Production I.G were advancing the anime adaptation. We saw the opportunity to expand the intensity and appeal of the original manga and anime into an interactive experience, which led to the decision to develop the game. It started as both a development proposal from our studio and an editorial strategy designed with the broader franchise rollout in mind.
The game features turn-based combat. Why did you choose this system, and how does it reflect the fast-paced energy of the original manga?
From the beginning, our highest priority was showcasing the characters. If this were developed purely as an action game, the camera perspective would inevitably reduce the characters to small, rear-view figures. Since this is a character-driven title, we adopted a system that keeps the camera focused on the characters’ special techniques and dynamic movements. Our aim was to allow players to deepen their attachment to the characters by spotlighting their appeal in gameplay.
What are your expectations for the game?
Through this game, we want as many people as possible to experience the world of Kaiju No. 8. Of course, we hope fans of the manga and anime will enjoy it, but we also want newcomers to feel the power of the battles against massive kaiju and the appeal of the characters. We are committed to growing the title into one that can be enjoyed long after release.
Was the creator of Kaiju No. 8, Naoya Matsumoto, involved in the project as a supervisor? If so, what kind of input did he bring to the team?
Mr. Naoya Matsumoto provided guidance to ensure that the original storylines and characters created for the game would not deviate from the established world of the manga. His feedback influenced aspects such as character personalities and relationships, as well as kaiju settings, allowing us to create content that fans can naturally accept.
How did this collaboration come together between the animation studio, the manga & video game publisher, and the original author?
This project began while TOHO and Production I.G were progressing with the anime adaptation. From an early stage, we shared information with Mr. Matsumoto, the publisher, and the anime production team, aligning on settings and creative direction as development advanced. Each team contributed its strengths, and under close collaboration, we built a framework that allows for a multifaceted expression of the Kaiju No. 8 world.
The game includes a “Memories” mode that follows the main story, as well as an entirely original “Main Story” mode. Could you tell us more about this new scenario? How does it differ from the manga or anime?
The “Reminiscence Story” mode allows players to relive the manga and anime storyline, while the “Main Story” mode offers an entirely original scenario created exclusively for the game. Set in parallel with the events of the original, it introduces new characters and incidents while exploring unknown aspects of the squad members and their relationships. It naturally connects with the original story while offering developments that can only be experienced through the game.
You’ve also announced character-focused side quests. Are you aiming to create a complementary transmedia experience to the anime?
The “Character Story” mode is designed to delve into character backgrounds and relationships while allowing players to enjoy interplay between the game and the anime/manga. Insights gained from the game can deepen understanding when watching the anime, and conversely, watching the anime can enhance discoveries when playing the game—creating a complementary cycle of enjoyment.
The official Japanese voice actors from the anime are returning for the game. How did you collaborate with the cast during the voice recording sessions?
By bringing in the same cast as the anime, we were able to preserve the appeal and consistency of the characters. During recording, we shared new lines and contexts specific to the game, and while respecting the performance tone established in the manga and anime, we directed adjustments in pacing and emphasis to align with player interaction. This process allowed us to create a sense of immersion unique to the game format.
Finally, do you have a message for fans around the world who are looking forward to playing “Kaiju No. 8 THE GAME”?
We are delighted to deliver an experience through Kaiju No.8 THE GAME where players can directly engage in battles against colossal kaiju and explore the stories of the characters. By enjoying the game alongside the anime and manga, we believe fans will immerse themselves even more deeply into the world of Kaiju No. 8. Please look forward to the release on August 31—we truly hope everyone will join us in celebrating this summer together with Kaiju No. 8.
New Key Visual:
© Akatsuki Games Inc./TOHO CO., LTD./Production I.G
Based on the popular manga series by Naoya Matsumoto, currently serialized on Shonen Jump+ (Shueisha) since 2020, the anime Kaiju No. 8 portrays intense battles between the Japan Defense Force, tasked with eliminating Kaiju, and the monstrous creatures that routinely threaten human lives. The original manga has surpassed 18 million copies in circulation (including digital editions), and the series has accumulated over 700 million views on Shonen Jump+ as of April 2025.
The anime aired from April to June 2024 and quickly gained massive popularity, reaching No. 1 on domestic daily rankings across major streaming platforms in Japan. A theatrical compilation of Season 1, including the side story Hoshina’s Day Off, premiered in Japan on March 28, 2025. Generating excitement since then, Season 2 has been airing every Saturday at 11:00 p.m. on TV Tokyo and is streamed worldwide on Crunchyroll and in real time via the official X account, drawing strong global reactions.
Kaiju No. 8 THE GAME – STORY:
Mysterious gates known as the Kaiju Dimensional Gates have suddenly appeared due to the actions of a certain Kaiju. In this new Kaiju No. 8 world, where Kaiju with unknown powers appear not only in Japan but across the globe, Identified Kaiju that were once thought to be defeated now confront the Defense Force by passing through these Kaiju Dimensional Gates.
On top of that, unknown Kaiju possessing special abilities—and seemingly responsible for the creation of these Kaiju Dimensional Gates—continue to cross over the boundary between dimensions to launch their attacks. Their appearance has led to a series of battles against colossal Kaiju.
© JAKDF 3rd Division © Naoya Matsumoto/SHUEISHA
© Akatsuki Games Inc./TOHO CO., LTD./Production I.G
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