10 Best Koei Tecmo Games, Ranked

Koei Tecmo has existed for a duration that surpasses my lifetime, consistently creating and distributing immersive gaming experiences throughout their history.

Essentially, their collection offers complex and frequently impactful encounters. Moreover, they’ve dared to push limits, presenting mature themes that sometimes include adult content.

From my childhood, I was fondly acquainted with the Ninja Gaiden game on NES. These days, however, Koei Tecmo has expanded their horizons significantly. They’ve dabbled in RPGs like the Atelier series, embarked on Samurai Warriors adventures filled with countless enemies, and even developed anime series into complete video games.

In an effort to select only ten games from their extensive collection, it proved quite a task, but we have striven to highlight the games that carry the most significant motifs and memorable characters. Below you’ll find our list, carefully curated, of the top 10 Koei Tecmo games, ranked!

(The original sentence has been rephrased to make it more natural and easier to read while retaining the original meaning.)

10. Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water

Beware Hikami Mountain…

The Fatal Frame series has had a longer history in Japan compared to the U.S., which contributed to my strong reaction upon the arrival of Maiden of Black Water. Its visuals are particularly impressive, particularly on the relatively underexplored Wii U system.

Despite its visually impressive appearance, the game initially struggled with performance on the system, necessitating additional memory just to run it. Fortunately, a revamped version has been released more recently, offering chills and frights to contemporary gamers using updated consoles.

Although it may not be the most well-known installment in the Fatal Frame series, it certainly delivered a chilling experience and spun tales of sorrow on Mount Hikami.

Indeed, playing the game most memorably was on the Wii U, as the gamepad transformed into an enormous Camera Obscura for battling tricky ghostly adversaries. However, there are even better versions of this game, provided by Koei Tecmo.

9. Attack on Titan 2: Final Battle

Gigantic Fun

A common practice is that once an anime series gains significant popularity, companies such as Koei Tecmo often seize the opportunity to create video games based on it.

The immense popularity of Attack on Titan led to the development of not one, but two variations of its second video game, titled Attack on Titan 2: Final Battle.

Apart from battling colossal beasts, the game boasted more than 40 playable characters, fresh equipment, and an engaging storyline inspired by the initial three seasons of the show.

Playing the game was enjoyable, but it didn’t fully satisfy fans of the anime because they expected a deeper and more detailed storyline given the complexity of the theme.

Even now, I find myself consistently drawn back to the captivating world of “Final Battle“. Despite its imperfections, it offers an engaging experience that keeps me coming back for more.

8. Metroid Other M

Team Ninja in Space

Team Ninja is widely recognized for numerous achievements, yet it might not be their Metroid: Other M game that immediately springs to mind. This game stirred up quite a debate among fans, leading me to initially consider leaving it out.

To put it simply, “Metroid: Other M” turns out to be quite enjoyable, even though its adherence to the “Metroid” series is debatable. Nonetheless, given that it comes from the publishers at Koei Tecmo, it’s definitely a game worth considering.

Despite the peculiar nature of the tale, the action was thrilling and filled with intensity. Traversing vibrant battlefield landscapes and confronting formidable extraterrestrial adversaries proved exhilarating, particularly when Samus’ ally, Ridley, entered the fray.

The game featured voice acting and some intriguing plot twists, which might have been unexpected or unwelcome by some fans, yet it remains a valuable addition to the library of enjoyable games available on a platform that was in need of fresh content.

7. Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition

Samurai Warriors in a Link Mask

Platform Nintendo Switch
Publisher Nintendo
Genre Adventure Game
Release Date May 18, 2018

Among all the “Samurai Warriors” games available, one might expect to find one on this list. However, here’s the twist – while many people are aware of that series, it remains quite specific or specialized. On the other hand, there’s no doubt about the popularity of the “The Legend of Zelda” series.

The game Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition offered a unique blend, merging fast-paced action reminiscent of the Samurai Warriors series with beloved characters and features from the Legend of Zelda games.

What stands out most is that this version offers an extensive collection, drawing content from both the original “Hyrule Warriors” on the Wii U and “Hyrule Legends” on the 3DS. Additionally, it includes costumes inspired by “Breath of the Wild”, making it appealing for enthusiasts of that specific journey.

Regardless of who your favorite legendary hero is that you choose to vanquish sorceress Cia, you can expect victory in the Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition!

6. Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate

Sneaky Snakes

If you’re yearning for an exhilarating journey akin to the style found in the Samurai Warriors or Dynasty Warriors series, then you’ve struck gold with Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate.

1) The arrival of the Serpent King Orochi brings about much chaos, and the storyline unfolds in a different universe altogether.

This game not only boasts over 100 characters from both Samurai and Dynasty Warriors series, but also offers polished gameplay mechanics.

Among the standout features, it’s hard not to notice the intricate team battle mechanics for three players, including Triple Rush and Switchable Battle Modes. The game is packed with an abundance of content, spanning diverse single-player stories and Gauntlet challenges.

Regardless if you prefer playing alone or with others, you’ll discover an abundance of fantastic combat and adventure in the game known as Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate.

5. Dynasty Warriors: Origins

Renovated Romance of the Three Kingdoms

The influence of “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” is extensive and it’s evident in numerous games developed by Koei Tecmo. However, one of the most impressive manifestations of this was a recent release, titled “Dynasty Warriors: Origins“.

Exploring the perspective of a protagonist suffering from amnesia, “Origins” caters to both returning fans, who appreciate its signature 1 vs. 1000 combat style, and fresh enthusiasts joining the extended franchise, offering them an ideal entry point into this long-running series.

A key factor contributing to its success was sticking to a single narrative thread, rather than shifting among multiple characters’ tales. Plus, for enhanced playback appeal, choosing a kingdom to align with will influence the final outcome of the tale.

If you’re at all a fan of this style of game, you should give this a try.

4. Dead or Alive Dimensions

3D Divas

If you assumed we had put controversy behind us following the release of “Metroid: Other M”, think again! Although I understand that maybe “Dead or Alive: Dimensions” isn’t considered a standout game in its fighting series by many, it remains my top pick among them.

As a dedicated Nintendo enthusiast for years, I regretted not joining the series earlier. When I discovered that Koei and Nintendo were collaborating to bring the first installment to a Nintendo system (3DS), I realized I had to experience it. After playing it, my affection for it became clear.

The “Dimensions” game effectively demonstrates the three-dimensional aspect of the system, all while maintaining an appealing and swift feel. This isn’t a trait often linked with 3D games from the Nintendo 3DS series.

Instead, an array of diverse personalities, numerous activities, and some rather intriguing alternative outfits graced this fighting game. However, its standout feature was undoubtedly its portability, which functioned flawlessly within the game.

3. Ninja Gaiden 2 Black

Back in Black

When I reminisce about Ninja Gaiden, what immediately springs to mind isn’t the breathtakingly revamped grandeur that Team Ninja initially introduced on Xbox consoles. Instead, it’s a nostalgic image of a small pixelated ninja, frantically dodging airborne enemies to avoid an untimely demise by falling.

The shift from 2D Ninja Entertainment System (NES) games to full 3D ninja action was remarkable, but it was truly astounding when they not only maintained that Xbox-style gameplay, but significantly upgraded it in the game Ninja Gaiden 2 Black.

You’ll find that all the elements that made Ryu Hayabusa’s combat style captivating are still present: an array of diverse weaponry, humorous dialogues, and grandiose boss fights to challenge you.

While it may not be the ultimate, irrefutable rendition of Ninja Gaiden, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black remains an exceptional way to have fun.

2. Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key

Secret Alchemy

Besides being renowned for its work, Koei Tecmo is particularly celebrated for the Atelier series. Over time, numerous installments have emerged, each featuring unique heroines that captivate the hearts of players. However, it’s Ryza who has won the favor of many fans.

Here’s another thrilling RPG journey brimming with alchemy, battles, and captivating personalities, namely Atelier Ryza 3: The Alchemist and the End & the Secret Key – a grand expedition!

The most enjoyable aspect of Atelier Ryza 3 might have been that it gathered together all the cherished characters from the series for what seemed like a heartfelt goodbye in this trilogy.

One potential rephrase could be: A minor drawback lies in a few translation glitches within the storyline, yet enthusiasts of the Atelier series have discovered many delightful aspects in this heartfelt tribute to an adventure.

1. Nioh 2

Combat is King

Among the outstanding products that Japan offers globally, they are renowned for their fascinating and utterly unique mythical beings. The imaginative prowess there is simply unparalleled, and it’s brilliantly demonstrated in the game “Nioh 2“.

In the spirit of its predecessor’s achievements, this Souls-like journey offers the unique opportunity to fully personalize your protagonist and introduces fresh gameplay mechanics.

In the world of this imaginative Japan, I find myself constantly adapting – metamorphosing into various demonic shapes as I face off against waves of otherworldly invaders. This incredible ability is none other than Yokai Shift!

Despite being quite challenging, Nioh 2 manages to maintain a level of fairness and balance typical of its genre. It’s an exceptional journey that beautifully demonstrates the unique qualities that set Koei Tecmo apart.

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2025-02-15 21:10