iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles is the closest overall follow-up to HOSHIKAGE if you want anime-authentic sword techniques, dramatic finishers and recognizable characters. Choose OGRE TALE instead for repeatable mission-based swordplay with character development and co-op, or NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER if playing online with friends matters more than making sword timing the entire combat system.
HOSHIKAGE’s appeal is unusually focused: deflect an attack, read the opening and finish the enemy with one decisive strike. The three recommendations below preserve different parts of that appeal, but none is a structural copy. The first is a licensed arena fighter, the second is a mission-based action RPG, and the third is a team-based online action game.
Quick comparison
| Game | Combat format | Role of sword combat | Solo and multiplayer structure | Best fit after HOSHIKAGE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles | Head-to-head arena fights and a story campaign | Anime-authentic sword techniques presented through spectacular skills | Campaign and online battles | Faithful anime presentation, named characters and flashy duels |
| OGRE TALE | Mission-based action RPG with hack-and-slash combat | Arcade-like swordplay is combined with progression | Single-player and one-to-three-player co-op | Frequent sword fighting, missions and character development |
| NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER | Third-person online team arena | Sword use is one part of a broader ninja moveset | 4-vs-4 battles with eight ninjas fighting simultaneously | Team play, mobility and anime spectacle |
This ranking uses four practical questions: how central sword timing is, whether the game is a duel or a mission loop, what kind of multiplayer it offers, and whether it fits the platforms you use.
Recommended Free Tools
What HOSHIKAGE sets as the baseline
HOSHIKAGE is a minimalist sword-action game in which story is conveyed through clashes and gestures. Its defining promise is timing-focused play: deflect an incoming attack, create a brief opening and end the encounter with a single strike. The visual language is strongly anime-inspired, but the game is not built around a large licensed character roster.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
That baseline matters because “anime sword game” can describe very different experiences. A game may look like an anime while emphasizing team objectives, supernatural abilities, loot, or a broad roster. If what you enjoyed was the concentration of a duel and the satisfaction of a perfectly timed response, prioritize sword-combat centrality. If you mainly want expressive techniques and familiar characters, prioritize anime authenticity. If you want a longer progression loop or regular multiplayer sessions, format and matchmaking become more important than one-hit finishers.
How to choose your follow-up
- Decide whether timing or spectacle comes first. The Hinokami Chronicles is the most direct choice for recognizable anime sword techniques and cinematic skills. OGRE TALE gives you more repeated mission combat and progression. Shinobi Striker makes mobility, ninjutsu and team objectives part of every match.
- Pick the session shape you actually want. A campaign and head-to-head battles suit players who prefer focused encounters. Mission-based play is better when you want a sequence of objectives and character development. Four-versus-four matches are the choice for scheduled sessions with friends.
- Check multiplayer requirements before buying. OGRE TALE supports one-to-three-player co-op, while Shinobi Striker is designed around online 4-vs-4 teams. The Hinokami Chronicles includes online battles, but its identity remains a licensed story and arena fighter.
- Confirm your platform and regional edition. OGRE TALE is listed for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Steam. Shinobi Striker is listed for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC. Check the current regional store listing for the edition and online features you intend to use.
1. Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles
Why it is the closest overall match
The Hinokami Chronicles best matches HOSHIKAGE’s combination of anime presentation and sword-focused drama. SEGA describes it as the official game of the anime phenomenon, and its campaign lets you take up Tanjiro Kamado’s sword. The game’s story and visuals are presented as a faithful recreation of the anime, so the appeal is not merely an anime-inspired art style: it is the opportunity to play through a licensed character’s journey using recognizable techniques.
Combat is built around spectacular skills and head-to-head arena fights. That makes every exchange more theatrical than HOSHIKAGE’s stripped-down one-strike structure, but it preserves the feeling that a sword technique should be visually expressive and character-specific. Online battles add a way to test those techniques against other players rather than limiting the game to its campaign.
What you will be doing
- Following a campaign centered on Tanjiro Kamado’s effort to become a Demon Slayer and restore his sister Nezuko’s humanity.
- Using named anime characters and their signature sword techniques in dramatic fights.
- Taking part in head-to-head arena matches built around spectacular skills.
- Playing online battles after or alongside the story campaign.
Where it differs from HOSHIKAGE
The game is a licensed arena fighter, not a minimalist duel simulator. It does not reproduce HOSHIKAGE’s one-strike finish structure, and the broader cast and cinematic presentation change the rhythm of combat. Choose it when the anime identity, character techniques and flashy duels are the priority; do not choose it expecting every encounter to be an austere test of deflection timing.
Who should start here
Start with The Hinokami Chronicles if you want the most direct bridge from HOSHIKAGE’s visual-anime feel to an official anime adaptation. It is also the clearest choice for players who want a story campaign first and online battles second, or who value recognizable characters more than a mission-progression loop.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
2. OGRE TALE
Why it is the best mission-based swordplay option
OGRE TALE is described by MAGES. as a mission-based action role-playing game that combines “arcade-like swordplay action with hack-and-slash elements featuring character development.” That combination makes it the strongest recommendation when HOSHIKAGE has left you wanting more sword fighting, but you also want a sequence of missions and a reason to develop your characters between encounters.
The setting follows the Oni Island Three Sisters in modern-day Japan as they fight folklore heroes and monsters. Its premise moves away from HOSHIKAGE’s abstract clashes toward a larger folklore adventure, yet the arcade-like swordplay keeps direct action at the center instead of treating the blade as a minor option in a predominantly ranged or ability-driven system.
How its structure changes the experience
- Missions replace isolated duels. You progress through objective-based encounters rather than treating every fight as a self-contained one-strike test.
- Hack-and-slash broadens the rhythm. The swordplay is paired with a more continuous action style, so the experience is built for repeated engagements.
- Character development adds a progression layer. Improvement over time becomes part of the loop, unlike HOSHIKAGE’s minimalist focus.
- Co-op changes encounter pressure. The game supports single-player and one-to-three-player co-op, allowing a group of up to four participants for missions.
Platforms and audience
The official listing covers Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Steam. That range makes OGRE TALE the most flexible recommendation of the three if your group is split across those systems, although you should still verify the edition available in your region before purchase.
Choose OGRE TALE when you want a substantial run of missions, progression and optional co-op. It is less suitable if the exact attraction was the silence, restraint and single decisive finish of HOSHIKAGE. Its folklore setting and beat-’em-up structure are intentionally broader.
3. NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER
Why it is the best online alternative
Shinobi Striker is the multiplayer recommendation. Bandai Namco describes 4-vs-4 team-based gameplay with eight ninjas fighting simultaneously. Matches use vivid colors and dynamic third-person movement, including vertical running and jumping, so the main attraction is coordinated anime action across an arena rather than a measured sequence of sword parries.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
This is the right follow-up if HOSHIKAGE made you want anime combat with other people online. It is not the right pick if “sword fighting” means every system should revolve around reading a blade and answering with a precise deflection. Ninjutsu, team roles, movement and objectives are central to its identity, and sword use is only one part of that broader ninja toolkit.
What makes it distinct
- Team scale: eight players fight at once in four-person teams.
- Mobility: third-person movement includes vertical running and jumping, creating a much more three-dimensional arena than a focused duel.
- Ability variety: ninjutsu and other ninja abilities share the spotlight with weapons.
- Social focus: the game is built for online play with friends and coordinated roles.
Platforms and trade-offs
Shinobi Striker is listed for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC. Its online format can provide a longer-term reason to return, but it also introduces team dependence: your experience is shaped by objectives, movement and cooperation, not solely by the quality of one sword exchange. Pick it for multiplayer energy and anime spectacle, accepting that it is the furthest of the three from HOSHIKAGE’s minimalist duel format.
Comparing the three on the questions that matter
Sword-combat centrality
The Hinokami Chronicles puts anime sword techniques at the center of its presentation, but within an arena-fighter framework. OGRE TALE makes arcade-like swordplay a core part of a mission-based action RPG, alongside hack-and-slash and character development. Shinobi Striker treats sword fighting as one component of a larger ninja combat system. If you want the blade to define the identity of the game, start with the first two.
Combat format
The Hinokami Chronicles is built around a campaign and head-to-head arena fights. OGRE TALE organizes play into missions and supports progression through those missions. Shinobi Striker is an online team arena in which eight ninjas act simultaneously. These formats are not interchangeable, so choosing by “anime” alone can lead to the wrong purchase.
Solo and multiplayer
For a primarily solo story, The Hinokami Chronicles offers the clearest campaign-led route. For solo play that can expand into cooperative missions, OGRE TALE supports one to three co-op partners. For a game designed around friends and team competition, Shinobi Striker is the dedicated option. The Hinokami Chronicles also offers online battles, giving it a middle position between campaign-first and multiplayer-first games.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Anime authenticity versus original setting
The Hinokami Chronicles is explicitly tied to an existing anime and recreates its story and visuals. OGRE TALE uses its own modern-Japan folklore setup involving the Oni Island Three Sisters, heroes and monsters. Shinobi Striker draws from the Naruto and Boruto universe but emphasizes online ninja competition over a single linear sword story. Decide whether you want to continue with a known character world or explore a different anime combat premise.
Platform and edition checks before purchase
Platform information is uneven across the three official descriptions, so use the following checklist rather than assuming that every game appears on every system:
- Nintendo Switch: listed for OGRE TALE.
- PlayStation 4: listed for OGRE TALE and Shinobi Striker.
- Xbox One: listed for OGRE TALE and Shinobi Striker.
- Steam or PC: OGRE TALE is listed on Steam, while Shinobi Striker is listed for PC.
- The Hinokami Chronicles: the material establishing its campaign, arena fights and online battles does not specify a platform list here; check the current regional store page.
Also verify whether the edition you are considering includes the story content and online functionality you expect. Regional catalogs, platform storefronts and online-service requirements can change independently of the game’s core design.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Other anime-combat games worth watching
Bandai Namco’s current catalog also lists Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream (2024), Bleach Rebirth of Souls (2025) and My Hero Academia: All’s Justice (2026). They are reasonable leads for readers who want more licensed anime combat, but the available descriptions do not establish enough sword-specific mechanics to rank them above The Hinokami Chronicles, OGRE TALE or Shinobi Striker for this particular question.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11That distinction is important. A familiar anime license does not automatically mean a game will deliver satisfying parries, finishers or sword-centered encounters. Treat these catalog entries as titles to investigate when you already prefer their franchises, not as proven replacements for HOSHIKAGE’s timing-focused loop.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
A practical play order
- Begin with The Hinokami Chronicles if you want the nearest overall blend of anime visuals, named sword techniques and dramatic duels.
- Move to OGRE TALE when you want missions, character development or co-op after the arena-fighter format starts to feel too concentrated on versus encounters.
- Try Shinobi Striker when the priority shifts to online sessions, team roles and high-mobility ninja combat rather than sword timing alone.
This order follows the distance from HOSHIKAGE’s core appeal: the first keeps the strongest anime-sword connection, the second expands the action into missions, and the third expands it again into team-based online play.
What to expect when moving away from a minimalist duel
The largest adjustment is that each recommendation adds systems HOSHIKAGE deliberately leaves out. A licensed arena fighter adds a roster and cinematic skills. A mission-based RPG adds objectives and character development. An online team game adds roles, movement and shared goals. Those additions can make the games more replayable or social, but they also mean that a successful encounter is not judged only by one perfectly timed deflection.
Use HOSHIKAGE as a preference test rather than a promise that every follow-up will feel identical. If the memorable part was the visual language and expressive sword techniques, The Hinokami Chronicles should feel most natural. If it was the physical act of fighting through repeated encounters, OGRE TALE supplies the longer action loop. If it was the desire to share anime combat with friends, Shinobi Striker provides the clearest answer.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFinal recommendation by player type
- Choose The Hinokami Chronicles for the closest overall anime-sword follow-up, a campaign built around Tanjiro and head-to-head arena battles.
- Choose OGRE TALE for mission-based swordplay, progression and one-to-three-player co-op across Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One or Steam.
- Choose Shinobi Striker for online 4-vs-4 action, eight-player battles, vertical movement and team play on PlayStation 4, Xbox One or PC.
No larger licensed game here is an exact structural replacement for HOSHIKAGE. The right choice depends on which part of its appeal you want to carry forward: precise anime-styled duels, repeated sword missions or multiplayer spectacle.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
