Top 10 Anime Board Game Adventures

It’s not uncommon for video games to draw inspiration from board games, so it’s no wonder that anime has followed suit. There are numerous shows centered around board games that have garnered praise for their innovative ideas. These anime explore a form of interaction and bonding with others that predates our understanding by centuries.

Similar to certain games, not all of these television series offer the same level of enjoyment. For those eagerly seeking captivating shows centered around their favorite board games, it’s essential to give these a watch.

12. When Will Ayumu Make His Move?

Shogi As A Medium For Love

  • Japanese Title: Ayumu wa Kitto Suki ni Naru.
  • Genres: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
  • Studios: ENGI

Typically emotionless character Ayumu Tanaka changes pastimes from Kendo to Shogi, all for the affection of Urushi Yaotome. Determined not to reveal his feelings until he defeats her in a game, he persists in mastering Shogi and audaciously compliments her as he learns, biding his time before making his romantic move.

This anime beautifully illustrates the progression of emotional development through board games, particularly focusing on the blossoming bond between Ayumu and Urushi as they engage in Shogi. At times, their strategies in Shogi are cleverly likened to love, making the series enjoyable for viewers regardless of their familiarity with either subject.

11. The Way Of Pon

A Supernatural Invite To Mahjong

  • Japanese Title: Pon no Michi
  • Genres: Slice of Life, Supernatural
  • Studios: OLM

One day, an unusual event occurred when Nashiko Jippensha, who had been expelled from home due to excessive noise, found herself unexpectedly learning Mahjong from a talking bird in her father’s long-neglected game room.

In my excitement, I was guided by a chatty feathered friend to give this game a spin, and let me tell you, it was a blast! I invited my pals to share in the fun at my new hangout spot, immersing ourselves in this unique form of entertainment. This anime doesn’t take Mahjong too seriously – there’s no stiff competition or professional pressure. That makes it perfect for folks like me who aren’t experts but still want to enjoy the ride! It’s a delightful and laid-back slice-of-life anime, with just enough emotional depth to keep things interesting. So sit back, relax, and let this anime be your ticket to some heartfelt fun!

10. Mudazumo Naki Kaikaku: The Legend Of Koizumi

A Political Satire With Mahjong

  • Japanese Title: Mudazumo Naki Kaikaku
  • Genres: Mahjong, Political, Comedy, Action
  • Studios: TYO Animations

In this anime, politics is elevated from the usual dull debates among adults discussing national matters without much progress, by depicting political leaders engaged in a game of Mahjong, where they fight for their country. The series follows the comical diplomatic efforts of Japanese leader Koizumi Junichiro as he navigates relationships with Japan’s adversaries.

In a series of just three episodes, this OVA (Original Video Animation) stands out as hard to beat among other political satire animes. It masterfully combines humor by employing amusing accents and comedic actions, often leaving viewers gasping for breath from laughter. Furthermore, the anime cleverly incorporates real-life politicians, who are depicted as skilled Mahjong players, adding another layer of comedy to the show.

9. After School Dice Club

Friendship And Fun Through Tabletop

  • Japanese Title: Houkago Saikoro Club
  • Genres: Comedy
  • Studios: LIDENFilms

This animated series, unlike many others centered around a single game, showcases various tabletop gaming experiences with the title “After School Dice Club”. The story revolves around Miki, a timid girl who’s never known much joy. A serendipitous event leads her to a board game store named Saikoro Club, where she encounters a German board game. This marks the beginning of Miki’s transformation, as she discovers the joys of social interaction and finds genuine happiness in this cheerful comedy anime set around tabletop games.

8. Chihayafuru

A Poetic Journey With Karuta

Chihayafuru showcases an exceptionally rare board game that’s unfamiliar to many outside Japan – Ura-garuta, often referred to as Karuta in the anime. Essentially, it involves 100 cards with traditional Japanese poetry written on them. The objective is to listen carefully as someone else reads the poems aloud and swiftly place your hand on the corresponding card before your opponent does.

Chihayafuru chronicles Ayase’s journey towards becoming an exceptional Karuta player, which is regarded as a sport in Japan. Consequently, it can also be categorized as a unique sports anime.

7. March Comes In Like A Lion

A Shogi Prodigy’s Path To Belonging

March is as likely to bring a heavy dose of emotional drama as it does board games in “March Comes In Like A Lion.” The story revolves around Rei, one of the top shogi players globally, which brings immense pressure upon him. At seventeen, he decides to live independently, but his self-care skills and social aptitude are underdeveloped. Consequently, he struggles to manage himself adequately and learn social graces.

Fortunately, a threesome of sisters along with their grandpa chose to intervene, ensuring his wellbeing becomes their priority. This family unit carries scars from past traumas but gradually strengthens their familial ties throughout the storyline.

6. Akagi

A Thrilling Dive Into Mahjong And High-Stakes Gambling

Titled after its central figure, this anime revolves around the intricate world of Mahjong gaming and the surrounding wagers. The protagonist, Akagi, finds himself catapulted into the darkest corners of society when he competes in a high-stakes Mahjong game against the mafia. It swiftly becomes evident that he possesses an innate talent for gambling. As his abilities unfold, Akagi gradually earns the reputation of being a legendary gambler and master Mahjong player. This anime is brimming with tension and expertly maintains an edge-of-your-seat atmosphere for its viewers.

5. The Ryuo’s Work is Never Done!

Shogi’s Young Prodigy And An Unlikely Partnership

  • Japanese Title: Ryuuou no Oshigoto!
  • Genres: Comedy
  • Studios: Project No.9

Shogi, much like chess but originating from Japan, has a top player bestowed the title of Ryuuou, or the Dragon King. Remarkably, Yaichi became the youngest individual to earn this prestigious title. However, due to his youthful inexperience and questionable qualifications, some within the community believe he doesn’t truly deserve the title. To add insult to injury, he had made a pledge to teach a young girl how to play shogi if ever he reached such a distinguished rank, but sadly forgot about this promise.

Ultimately, they join forces, with one aiming to unveil her latent abilities in the sport, while the other seeks to demonstrate his true prowess, deserving of the title ‘Dragon King’.

4. Saki

A Reluctant Mahjong Prodigy Finds Her Way

  • Japanese Title: Saki
  • Genres: Slice of Life
  • Studios: GONZO, A-1 Pictures

Initially, the protagonist of Saki exhibits an unusual dislike for the game they excel in, setting them apart somewhat from others.

Following Saki, the main character, being pulled towards her school’s Mahjong Club, her knack for the game was no longer concealable, since the other members noticed her unique playing style. Eventually persuaded to become a member, she gradually grew fond of both the club and its members, as well as the game itself, over time.

3. Weiß Survive

Card Game Battles Across Anime Worlds

  • Japanese Title: Weiß Survive
  • Genres: Comedy, Ecchi
  • Studios: Studio Hibari

Weiss Scharz, often written as Weiss Schwarz, is an exceptional card game that brings characters from numerous anime and cartoons together for a head-to-head battle. Its distinct charm resonates strongly with anime enthusiasts, making a series designed to explain its rules an ideal match.

In a new world called the Weiss Schwarz Battle Space, Takeshi finds himself, with no knowledge of the game’s rules. However, a kind girl named Michi is there to guide him. She assists him in understanding the game, as he strives to win card battles and eventually make his way back home.

2. The Flowers Of Hard Blood

Shogi Thriller Wrapped In Mystery And Trauma

  • Japanese Title: Shion no Ou
  • Genres: Drama, Mystery, Suspense
  • Studios: Studio DEEN

Shion no Ou, an extraordinary blend of mystery-themed anime and board games, presents an unique creature in the realm of storytelling. At the tender age of five, Shion witnessed her parents’ brutal murder. In response, she was issued a chilling challenge: to play shogi, and if she wished to survive, she must forever remain silent and erase the horrors of that fateful night from her memory.

Over time, she ultimately establishes herself as a seasoned shogi player, and with the growing recognition of her talent, fragments of memories concerning that tragic night gradually resurface in her mind.

1. Hikaru no Go

Appeasing A Spirit Leads To Hikaru’s Love For Go

Hikaru no Go is arguably the most renowned animated series centered around a board game, with Go being the game in question. In this narrative, Hikaru encounters a legendary Go mentor named Sai in a ghostly manner. Initially playing Go to appease Sai, he unexpectedly discovers a profound affection for the game. The tale unfolds as Hikaru progresses and aspires to reach the pinnacle of Go players throughout history.

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2025-02-23 01:56