Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Hinokami Keppuutan 2 was officially showcased during EVO Japan 2025, giving fans their first hands-on experience with the highly anticipated sequel.
Developed by CyberConnect2 and published by Aniplex, the second installment builds upon the foundation of the first Hinokami game while introducing key improvements in character roster, visual fidelity, and gameplay responsiveness.
While a full release date has yet to be revealed, the early demo presented at EVO Japan offered clear signs of what players can expect from this next evolution in the Demon Slayer game franchise.
A Bigger, Better Roster
One of the most exciting updates is the inclusion of new playable characters, such as Tengen Uzui, Daki, and Gyutaro.
These additions reflect the game’s expanded narrative scope, aligning with later arcs of the anime that were not covered in the original title.
Unlike in the first game, where the roster leaned heavily on early-series characters, Hinokami Keppuutan 2 aims to deliver a more comprehensive lineup that mirrors the series’ evolution. The presence of Upper Rank demons alongside the flashy Sound Hashira signals a shift toward more diverse fighting styles and abilities.
Gameplay Refinements and Visual Polish
While the core mechanics remain true to the original, subtle but impactful improvements have been made to combat speed, hit detection, and visual feedback.
Player movement feels more responsive, and special techniques now carry enhanced particle effects that give each clash a more cinematic weight.
The demo focused on versus mode, allowing attendees to test matchups between new and legacy characters. Early impressions suggest that combo potential and counterplay depth have increased, a welcome change for competitive-minded players.
CyberConnect2 seems determined to maintain the flashy anime aesthetic while improving the moment-to-moment feel of combat. Environments are more animated, and each character’s personality now shines more clearly through their movement and attack animations.
Audio and Atmosphere
Beyond visuals, Hinokami Keppuutan 2 also delivers a more immersive audio design. Voice clips during fights, musical transitions during special attacks, and ambient background sounds all contribute to an experience that feels closer to watching an episode of the anime — but one you control.
While the full story mode was not part of the EVO demo, hints from booth displays and staff teasers suggest that major arcs beyond the Entertainment District will be included in the final version.
No Release Date Yet, but Expectations Are High
As of now, no official release date or platform confirmation has been announced.
However, given the completeness of the demo, many fans speculate that a late 2025 or early 2026 release could be likely.
The game will presumably launch on platforms similar to its predecessor, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Final Thoughts
Demon Slayer Hinokami Keppuutan 2 is shaping up to be more than just a sequel. With a broader character pool, improved gameplay mechanics, and high-fidelity presentation, this follow-up aims to satisfy both casual fans of the anime and dedicated fighting game players.
As we wait for further announcements, the EVO Japan 2025 showcase has succeeded in doing exactly what it set out to do — spark excitement and prove that this game isn’t just a repeat, but a true upgrade.