Tencent and Morefun Studios unveiled The Hidden Ones on December 3, 2024. This 3D action-fighting game, boasting a cinematic animation style, draws inspiration from the popular anime and webcomic series Hitori No Shita: The Outcast. The official trailer showcases dynamic gameplay with unique skill sets and abilities, promising strategically challenging and exciting battles. While set in the Hitori No Shita universe, the game emphasizes a competitive and fair PvP experience.
Enzo Zhang, head of Morefun Studios, expressed the team’s dedication to creating “a mythical martial arts experience that players across PC and mobile will love.” He highlighted Morefun Studios’ global reputation for action and shooter games, expressing excitement for sharing The Hidden Ones with fans of action-packed experiences.
The Hidden Ones Key Art. Credit: Pandanium/NAMU Animation
Pre-Alpha Registration Now Open
Fans in the United States and Brazil can currently register for the pre-alpha version of The Hidden Ones through the game’s official website.
Exploring the World of Hitori No Shita
Hitori No Shita follows the journey of Chou Soran, an ordinary college student whose life takes a dramatic turn after a chilling encounter at his grandfather’s gravesite. While visiting the graveyard, Chou is attacked by zombie-like creatures and rescued by a mysterious knife-wielding woman. This incident unravels a hidden truth about his grandfather’s past and sets Chou on a path of martial arts mastery to uncover the truth. The series incorporates Taoist philosophies and Yin and Yang concepts, adding a layer of real-world spiritual depth to the intricate narrative.
A Unique Blend of Martial Arts and Horror
Hitori No Shita distinguishes itself by blending classic martial arts tropes with captivating paranormal horror elements. This unique combination lends itself perfectly to a video game adaptation. The original series features a diverse cast with distinct fighting styles, suggesting The Hidden Ones might offer similar character customization and skill progression. From the environments to the music, the trailer showcases a stylish adaptation of the source material. While anime-based games have a mixed history, The Hidden Ones exhibits promising potential for both newcomers and longtime fans of the series.
The Potential of The Hidden Ones
The game’s focus on PvP combat sets it apart from traditional narrative-driven adaptations. This approach could attract a wider audience interested in competitive online experiences. The success of The Hidden Ones hinges on delivering engaging gameplay mechanics, balanced character abilities, and a robust online infrastructure. The pre-alpha testing phase will be crucial for gathering player feedback and refining the game before its official release.
Conclusion
The Hidden Ones presents an exciting new take on the Hitori No Shita universe, emphasizing competitive PvP action. The game’s visual style and commitment to adapting the source material’s unique blend of martial arts and horror hold significant promise. With pre-alpha registration open, fans can look forward to experiencing this new chapter in the Hitori No Shita saga.
