Darwin’s game aired in January of 2020 and was produced by Studio Nexus. It’s original manga was created by FLIPFLOPs. The story follows Kaname Sudou and his journey in the world of Darwin’s game, a death game system where your life is forfeit should you choose to play. Finding himself sucked into this life-or-death situation he is forced to come up with plans to ensure his survival all while trying to spare as many people as possible.
I have been looking for an excuse to talk about Darwin’s Game for a while now. This show is absolutely phenomenal! Right off the bat, you will be seeing similarities between this show and Future Diaries. A very similar anime in concept however with slightly more brutal themes. Darwin’s Game is like the light version of Future Diaries. Less brutal but the similar themes and mechanics are still very well done.
What is the Darwin’s Game
Darwin’s game finds characters using their cellular devices to access a video game-like system, here you earn points by defeating others that play the game. However should you choose not to surrender, or your opponent isn’t feeling merciful, your death is all that ends the game. It very quickly shows it for what it is. A death game. However, there is a twist. Users who play the game have access to a unique power to them known as a Sigil. It comes as natural as breathing and can often be rather powerful. These powers change the tide of battle almost entirely.
Kaname shows himself as someone who tries to use their words to get around a situation. However, unlike some characters from very similar shows he knows when he’s backed into a corner. And when an animal is backed into a corner it becomes dangerous. Kaname may not be strong, but he is two things. Smart, and tenacious. He is swift to come up with a plan.
The Sigil System
And with his ability from his Sigil, he is unpredictable. It becomes very obvious at around the end of episode three that Kaname’s ability is to produce anything he’s ever touched out of thin air. This makes him a menace if people underestimate him. Oh, he didn’t bring a weapon? Guess again, boom you’re dead. But he chooses to take a pacifist route for this game. He doesn’t believe in killing people to get his way.
This mentality really helps solidify his nature. He only lashes out when all other options are exhausted. And this works out because people know he’s strong so they flock to join him knowing that should push come to shove he will get them out of their jam. He’s odd, but reliable.
The Surprising Sound of Darwin’s Game
And the sound design can rival that of Fire Force. Now I must admit it doesn’t carry as much impact as it could. If they did some of the fights combined better with the audio, they could have really made their fight scenes shine. However, I realize that it takes away from the inner monologues seeing how Kaname is adjusting to his situation. Too much of a good thing can be rather annoying.
I adore this anime with all my heart as it was a favorite for me when it came out and I really hope it eventually gets a season two. Until then give this show a watch it is phenomenal.