A new Death Note game, tentatively titled Killer Within, has received a rating from the Taiwan Digital Game Rating Committee for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. This suggests an imminent official announcement.
Bandai Namco's Potential Involvement
The game is widely anticipated to be published by Bandai Namco, a company with a proven track record of adapting popular anime franchises into successful video games. While concrete details remain scarce, the rating itself hints at a forthcoming reveal. This follows June's trademark registrations for Death Note: Killer Within (or its translated equivalent, "Death Note: Shadow Mission") by Shueisha, the original manga publisher, in several key territories. However, the game listing may have since been removed from the rating board's website.
Speculation and Franchise History
Although gameplay and plot specifics are shrouded in secrecy, fan speculation is rife. Given the source material's focus on psychological conflict, many expect a suspenseful, narrative-driven experience. Whether the game will feature the iconic Light Yagami and L, or introduce new characters and storylines, remains a mystery.
The Death Note franchise boasts a history of video game adaptations, beginning with the 2007 Nintendo DS title, Death Note: Kira Game. This point-and-click adventure allowed players to assume the roles of Kira or L, engaging in a battle of wits. Subsequent releases, Death Note: Successor to L and L the ProLogue to Death Note: Spiraling Trap, followed a similar formula. These earlier titles, however, were primarily released in Japan. Killer Within's potential release would mark a significant step for the franchise, potentially signifying its first major global launch.