4 Incredible TTRPGs All Anime Fans Should Check Out

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It’s a fantastic time to be into both anime and tabletop role-playing games! Anime’s influence on TTRPGs has grown massively in the last ten years. You can now find games that capture the energy of anime, from quick, action-packed combat inspired by shonen series to complex systems suited for stories about politics, mechs, or emotional fantasy. If you loved growing up with anime and want a game that delivers similar thrills, epic battles, and memorable characters, there are more choices than ever. While Big Eyes Small Mouths was a pioneer, today’s TTRPGs offer truly immersive worlds.

The growing number of anime-inspired tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) is really exciting, especially because there’s so much variety. No matter what kind of anime you enjoy – whether it’s emotional stories, thrilling action, somber fantasy, or traditional Japanese role-playing game adventures – there’s a game designed to fit your preferences. We’re taking a look at four outstanding TTRPGs that are both fun to play and successfully capture the essence of anime storytelling.

4) Daggerheart

Daggerheart, the tabletop RPG created by Darrington Press (from the creators of Critical Role), is generating a lot of buzz, and rightfully so. Though it’s set in a fantasy world inspired by the American West, its gameplay and emphasis on character emotions make it a great fit for anime fans. It’s perfect for those who enjoy stories focused on character development, intense drama, and strong bonds between team members. The game really emphasizes character journeys, letting players collaborate with the game master to shape the world. Its unique Hope and Fear system captures the emotional struggles and growth often seen in anime heroes as they confront their weaknesses and pursue their dreams.

This tabletop RPG offers a fresh take on creating game worlds, with several pre-made campaign settings inspired by popular anime. The Witherwild feels like Princess Mononoke and Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Beast Feast takes cues from Delicious in Dungeon and One Piece, and The Age of Umbra is heavily influenced by Berserk. Daggerheart strikes a great balance, offering the easy-to-learn rules of Dungeons & Dragons 5E, emotionally engaging storytelling, and the fast-paced action of shonen anime and Japanese role-playing games.

Daggerheart uses a unique dice system that makes combat exciting and unpredictable, but still allows players to make impactful decisions. It creates a gameplay experience that’s full of drama and emotion, which is why it’s so popular with groups who enjoy anime-inspired stories. If your group loves big battles and strong character moments, Daggerheart is a fantastic new system to try, and it’s getting even better with each new release.

3) Twilight Sword

Tabletop role-playing games are constantly changing, and the most innovative new games aren’t just trying to copy Dungeons & Dragons. They’re reimagining the entire experience. Twilight Sword is a great example of this, having exceeded its funding goals with ease. It combines the heartwarming feel of Studio Ghibli films with the adventurous spirit of The Legend of Zelda, making it a fantastic choice for anime lovers. With its charming atmosphere and focus on exciting quests, it’s one of the most captivating new fantasy TTRPGs in recent years. The story immediately draws you in: you play as a Champion, awakened by ancient Spirits, with the mission of bringing hope back to the despairing realm of Radia.

The most impressive part of Twilight Sword is its beautifully crafted world. Radia feels like a real, vibrant place – full of mystery and created with the same care as the worlds in Breath of the Wild or classic Studio Ghibli films. Once a peaceful land protected by gentle guardians, Radia is now threatened by monstrous creatures called the Vardas. Your goal isn’t just to fight monsters, but to restore hope to the land. Helping people, resolving their problems, discovering hidden truths, and enjoying touching side stories are all important. The game’s world is revealed through 25 unique map cards, each offering dungeons, shrines, forests, ruins, and puzzles that make exploring a joy.

Twilight Sword clearly draws inspiration from classic games like Zelda and JRPGs, but it feels fresh and original. Its dungeons and puzzles are reminiscent of Zelda, while its story focuses on themes of courage and hope, common in JRPGs. The game features a unique character system where players can combine different paths – like Blade, Magic, or Song – to create a customized hero, similar to class systems in RPGs. It’s designed to appeal to fans of anime and tabletop role-playing games, offering a blend of action, character growth, and heartwarming moments.

2) Sword World

Sword World is a hugely popular tabletop RPG in Japan, similar in influence to Dungeons & Dragons in the West. Originally released in the late 1980s and consistently updated since, it has inspired many anime, manga, and novels, including Record of Lodoss War. If you enjoy classic Japanese RPGs, fantasy anime, or older adventure stories, Sword World is a fantastic find. And now, it’s being officially translated into English for the first time!

As someone who loves anime and JRPGs, I’ve found Sword World to be a really great tabletop roleplaying experience. It really captures that classic feel of games like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest – you level up, roll for damage using set tables, and the magic system feels like it stepped right out of those early Japanese fantasy worlds. What strikes me most is how different it feels from typical Western RPGs, but it still delivers that same excitement of working together with friends. Everything feels more focused, character progression is really engaging, and the stories often revolve around themes of fate, being a hero, and building strong bonds with your fellow adventurers.

Sword World really stands out with its strong anime and JRPG inspiration. If you’re an anime fan wanting a tabletop RPG that truly captures the feel of Japanese game design – not just borrows from it – Sword World is definitely worth a look. It’s a fantastic tribute to classic fantasy anime and JRPGs, and it’s poised to be one of the biggest new tabletop RPGs coming out soon.

1) BREAK!!! RPG

BREAK!!! RPG has quickly become popular with anime fans because it truly feels like playing inside an anime world. Its vibrant art style immediately brings to mind classic anime and Japanese role-playing games, creating a bright and engaging experience. But it’s more than just looks; BREAK!!! is successful because its rules are easy to learn but allow for complex characters, exciting adventures, and the over-the-top action you’d expect from your favorite anime.

I’ve been watching people play this game, and what really stands out is how much freedom it gives you. It’s not about mastering complex combat; it’s about exploring colorful worlds and figuring things out as you go, really getting into the role of your character. But don’t think that means there’s no tension! I saw one group in a session trying to deal with airship pirates, and it was wild – a mix of silly humor, surprisingly honest moments, and just making things up on the spot. Honestly, only in a game like this could something so chaotic feel so…right. It perfectly balances genuine emotion with over-the-top fun, just like the anime it’s based on.

Everything about this game – from the character classes and equipment to the monsters and settings – feels like it was pulled straight from a classic 90s action anime. It’s also very easy for beginners to learn, making it a great choice for anime fans who are new to tabletop role-playing games and don’t want to deal with complicated rules. What really stands out is how much the game encourages teamwork and strategy, even when you’re not fighting. If you want the best tabletop RPG that captures the feeling of watching an anime season, BREAK!!! RPG is a top contender.

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2025-11-25 00:17