Hideki Kamiya’s Best Games Ranked From Worst To Best

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Summary

  • Hideki Kamiya’s games cover a wide variety of genres, including horror, puzzle-games, and action-adventure.
  • The Wonderful 101 offers a unique multiplayer experience and gameplay using the Wii U gamepad.
  • Devil May Cry created a new genre of action games with intense combat and exploration.

In the realm of gaming, there are hardly any figures as captivating and innovative as Hideki Kamiya. Since 1996, this game designer has been consistently contributing to the contemporary era. While others in the field have helmed a greater number of games, the range that Hideki Kamiya‘s creations encompass is relatively unmatched. His works traverse the realms of horror, puzzles, and action-adventure genres.

This list below ranks Hideki Kamiya’s video games from least favorite to favorite. Luckily, you can’t really make a bad choice with these titles. The weakest of the group still offers lots of fun. After three decades in the gaming industry, there’s no doubt we’ll see more games from him in the time to come.

Though Hideki Kamiya has had a hand in many games, this list is focused on games he directed.

7. Arthur To Astaroth No Nazomakaimura: Incredible Toons

A Puzzle Game With The Ghost ‘N Goblins Aesthetic

Platforms PlayStation, Sega Saturn
Released August 30, 1996
Developer Capcom
Genre Puzzle

In the realm of Hideki Kamiya’s creations, the least recognized and admired is the game titled “Arthur to Astaroth no Nazomka Nazomakaimura: Incredible Toons“. This title borrows its gameplay mechanics from the renowned The Incredible Machine series and infuses a visual style reminiscent of the iconic Ghost ‘n Goblins franchise.

Each level in this game is like solving a puzzle, requiring players to strategically position various gadgets throughout the playfield to create a Rube Goldberg-like device. This game is quite challenging, fitting with the reputation of the Ghost n’ Goblins series for being tough.

6. The Wonderful 101

101 Characters Fighting As One

As a die-hard fan, I’d like to share that The Wonderful 101 originally made its debut as an exclusive for the Wii U console. Unlike typical action games featuring a solitary protagonist, in this game, you command a team of heroes all at once, viewing the action from above. The unique gameplay leverages the Wii U’s gamepad by having players draw shapes on its touchscreen to trigger various abilities.

The distinctive idea and multiplayer aspect are compelling reasons to give it a try, yet it seems as though with some fine-tuning, it could have been an absolute masterpiece in a follow-up game. Regrettably, the title did not perform well commercially initially, but thanks to a successful Kickstarter campaign, it was remastered for other platforms. Although it’s gratifying that more players can now enjoy this game on various systems, it appears unlikely that a sequel will materialize.

5. Devil May Cry

Created A New Genre

Devil May Cry marked the beginning of a fresh chapter in action game development, compelling future titles within this genre to offer more depth than traditional brawlers or beat-em-ups that players were accustomed to. By combining aspects from games like Resident Evil and Dino Crisis, Devil May Cry delivered a harmonious mix of intricate combat and captivating exploration.

Although later sequels improved and streamlined the combat experience, there’s an endearing quality about the initial release as it pioneered a fresh genre. Despite its outdated aspects, which might be challenging to revisit at times, the game is brief enough that it doesn’t feel prolonged during a single playthrough.

4. Viewtiful Joe

Kicking Butt In Movieland

Stepping once more into the vibrant world of the second dimension, I found myself immersed in the captivating realm of Viewtiful Joe. This side-scrolling brawler offers an enchanting blend of cel-shaded visuals and intuitive controls, crafting a whimsical gaming experience that’s pure joy to explore.

The visual style is heavily influenced because it’s set in an alternate universe known as Movieland. A unique feature called the “VFX Gauge” has perforations similar to sprocket holes. Despite not being a massive commercial hit, Viewtiful Joe did produce a sequel and offshoots. However, Hideki Kamiya only directed the initial release.

The visual style is strongly influenced by it being set in an alternate world called Movieland. A distinctive trait known as the “VFX Gauge” has edges like sprocket holes. Despite not being a major commercial triumph, Viewtiful Joe led to a sequel and spin-offs. However, Hideki Kamiya was only involved in directing the first release.

The demonstration version of Viewtiful Joe 2 on PlayStation 2 is notorious for a bug, which caused the game to freeze and erase all data stored on any connected memory cards during that period.

3. Okami

Like Living In A Painting

The visual quality shouldn’t be a key factor when evaluating a game’s graphics. Take for instance, Okami, which was released on the PS2 in 2006. Yet, it remains one of the most beautiful games ever made.

Or another way:

When assessing a game’s graphics, visual quality should not be given much weight. For example, consider Okami, a game that debuted on the PS2 in 2006. Despite its age, it continues to stand out as one of the most visually stunning games available today.

In this game, players take on the role of a wolf deity named Amaterasu, navigating through ancient Japan where they confront malevolent forces. Unlike other games in the list, combat is merely a small aspect and may not be as engaging as the other activities. Instead, players engage in problem-solving and immersive interaction with the environment using the Celestial Brush tool. By painting specific designs, they activate various abilities. The vibrant setting teems with character, particularly the numerous quirky figures Amaterasu meets during her voyage.

2. Bayonetta

The Smoothest Action And The Most Personality

Bayonetta stands out as one of the top-notch character action games, solidifying Platinum Games as masters of creating complex yet user-friendly battle systems. The experience may be brief, but it never slows down, maintaining intensity from start to finish.

In this game, angelic interactions are woven with impressive large-scale environments and imaginative boss fights. The action is enhanced by a story that exudes flair and humor. The main character’s design, often discussed in terms of sexualization, consistently portrays her as cool, self-assured, and strong.

1. Resident Evil 2

One Of The Best Survival Horror Games Ever Made

Originally referred to as one of the greatest survival horror games ever crafted, Resident Evil 2, is well-known for a reason. A single journey through its gripping narrative is sufficient to warrant the investment, yet what truly sets it apart is its innovative structure, providing exceptional reasons to replay it multiple times.

The game arrives on two disks, offering unique storylines for both Claire and Leon. Upon completing the game once, gamers can save their progress and replay the campaign with a different character. The earlier playthrough influences the subsequent one. Consequently, to witness all aspects of the game, players must finish it four times in total. The Raccoon City Police Department stands as one of gaming’s most legendary locales, making this creation a masterpiece by Hideki Kamiya.

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2025-02-07 06:34