As a PC gamer, I’ve always been drawn to Bandai Namco Entertainment’s games. They’ve made classics like Pac-Man and the Dark Souls series. These games have won the hearts of gamers all over the world.
Bandai Namco has a rich history, starting in Japan’s post-World War II toy industry. They merged with Namco in 2006, becoming the giant they are today. Their games, from JRPGs to arcade hits, always keep players coming back for more.
In this article, we’ll look at the top 10 Bandai Namco games for PC. We’ll see how they’ve shaped the gaming world. From Elden Ring’s world-building to Tekken’s lasting appeal, these games are loved by PC gamers everywhere.
The Legacy of Bandai Namco Entertainment
Bandai and Namco are two big names in gaming. They have a long history together that has changed video games. Bandai started as a toy maker in 1950. Namco began in 1955, focusing on arcade games.
When they merged in 2006, it was a big deal. This merger created Namco Bandai Games, now known as Bandai Namco Entertainment.
From Toys to Gaming Giant
Bandai began in the toy world. This helped them move into video games. They knew how to make fun and engaging products.
Namco was already a top name in arcade games. They made hits like Pac-Man and Galaga.
The Merger That Changed Gaming
The 2006 merger between Bandai and Namco was huge. It brought together Bandai’s toy skills and Namco’s gaming know-how. This created a powerhouse in the gaming world.
Company’s Impact on Gaming Industry
Bandai Namco Entertainment has made a big impact. They have created hits like Tekken, Soulcalibur, and Dark Souls. Their focus on innovation has pushed video games forward.
Today, Bandai Namco Entertainment is still a leader. They are known for their excellence and have a global presence.
What Makes Bandai Namco Games Special
Bandai Namco is known for its skill in making both big and small games. They’re famous for hits like Elden Ring, but also for games like Captain Tsubasa. This shows they really care about making games for everyone.
They’re also the biggest publisher of anime games. This lets them bring favorite anime characters to life in games. At the same time, they make new Western-style games, showing they can adapt to different tastes.
Bandai Namco has a long history in toys and arcade games. This experience helps them mix old and new game ideas. They create games that are innovative and engaging with game diversity as described in detail below:
10. Elden Ring
- Genre (s): Action, RPG
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): FromSoftware, Inc.
- Publisher(s): FromSoftware, Inc., Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: February 25, 2022
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 10 (64-bit) OS/ 2.8 GHz Processor/ 12 GB RAM/ 60 GB Storage/ 4 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 16+
Elden Ring is a visual masterpiece with a stunning day-night cycle and varied environments. The game’s world is richly detailed, from character designs to environmental elements. Yet, some PC players face performance issues, like framerate stuttering.
The game supports both keyboard/mouse and controller inputs, with the controller being smoother. Elden Ring also has multiplayer features, allowing players to summon allies or invade others’ worlds. The game’s audio and soundtrack add to the immersive fantasy atmosphere of the Lands Between.
Elden Ring’s world and lore come from a team-up between George R.R. Martin and FromSoftware. The game’s story starts with the Elden Ring breaking, causing chaos in the Lands Between. As you explore, you learn about the world’s history and its people through stories, items, and talks with characters.
The Lands Between is full of treasures, mysteries, and dangers. You must figure out the lore and secrets on your own. There’s no guide, so you use your observations and guesses. The game has many endings and side quests, making it fun to play again and again.
Elden Ring’s world is huge, like in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. You can call a spirit horse to help you travel. This lets you explore the vast continent and skip fights when you want. There are many “sites of grace” for saving and fast travel, making it easy to move around and find new challenges.
9. Dark Souls 3
- Genre (s): Action, RPG
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): FromSoftware, Inc.
- Publisher(s): FromSoftware, Inc., Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: April 11, 2016
- Campaign Mode: Single Player
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 8 OS/ 3.1 GHz Processor/ 4 GB RAM/ 25 GB Storage/ 4 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 16+
Dark Souls 3 is another visual masterpiece with stunning views and detailed environments, takes combat to a new level of intensity. The stamina system is key, requiring players to time their moves perfectly. Enemies are faster, making battles more intense and demanding.
It pulls you into the dark fantasy world of Lothric. The game’s art direction is a triumph, with a grim, ash-laden tone that fits the challenging atmosphere. Weapon arts bring a new level of strategy, giving each weapon unique abilities. These abilities can change the outcome of a fight.
The multiplayer has also seen improvements, with faster invasions and new covenant systems. These features create a strong sense of community. The lore is rich, hidden in item descriptions, NPC talks, and the environment.
The PC version of Dark Souls 3 offers a smooth experience with the right hardware. A system with an Nvidia GTX 770, Intel Core i5-4440, and 8GB of RAM can run at 60 frames per second at high settings. But, as you explore deeper, like the Road of Sacrifices, the frame rate may drop.
Dark Souls 3 sometimes has performance issues, affecting both AMD and Nvidia GPUs. You might see frame rate stutters or need to force quit. A Day One patch helped, but the game still needs more optimization updates.
8. Soulcalibur 6
- Genre (s): Action
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Bandai Namco Studios Inc., Dimps Corporation
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: October 19, 2018
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 8 OS/ 3.6 GHz Processor/ 6 GB RAM/ 20 GB Storage/ 4 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 16+
Soulcalibur 6 is the latest in Bandai Namco’s weapon-based combat series. It’s a true fighting game masterpiece. This reboot brings back the original storyline and adds new mechanics for both new and experienced players.
The Reversal Edge system is a highlight, creating exciting “Rock, Paper, Scissors” moments. These moments add a thrilling unpredictability to battles. The game’s combat is now faster and more fluid. Players have a wide range of attacking options. Some fans find it more accessible, while others enjoy the added depth and complexity.
Soul Charge, a power-up boost, enhances characters’ abilities. It allows for devastating combos and tactical maneuvers. The classic Guard Impact mechanic has been simplified. It now uses a single button input. This makes it easier for players to master and adds to the game’s appeal.
Soulcalibur 6 has many story modes for different players. The main story is in Soul Chronicle mode. It follows characters like Kilik, Maxi, and Xianghua as they search for Nightmare. Each character also has their own campaign. These stories give us a deeper look into their reasons and battles.
The Libra of Soul mode lets you make your own character. You go on an RPG-style journey to save your life from dark powers. This mode has text stories, some voice acting, and missions to finish. Some players like the game’s story but say the dialogue and visuals get old, especially in Libra of Soul. They also mention PS4 Pro has some loading problems.
SoulCalibur VI’s graphics have sparked mixed opinions. The game’s glowing weapon trails and dynamic hit sparks are stunning. Yet, some players feel it doesn’t fully use the power of current consoles. The game boasts a diverse cast of 21 fighters at launch, including beloved returns and new faces.
Geralt of Rivia, from The Witcher series, is a standout addition. He brings his swordplay and spellcasting to the game. Players can also create up to 100 unique fighters, choosing from many options for skin, hair, voice, and more.
7. Little Nightmares 2
- Genre (s): Horror, Adventure, Puzzle
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Tarsier Studios
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: February 11, 2021
- Campaign Mode: Single Player
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 10 (64-bit) OS/ 2.8 GHz Processor/ 4 GB RAM/ 10 GB Storage/ 1 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 16+
Get ready for a spooky journey into the Little Nightmares world. The sequel, Little Nightmares 2, is here, offering a chilling, atmospheric adventure. It’s perfect for fans of horror platformers, taking you into a dark fantasy world.
In Little Nightmares 2, you guide Mono and Six through a dark world. They face a bleak, unsettling landscape. The story is told without words, letting you figure it out yourself. This game blurs the lines between reality and nightmares, making it a deeply immersive experience.
The game has five levels, each with its own look and feel. You’ll find twisted places and scary figures everywhere. It’s a lesson in creating a creepy atmosphere. It has a perfect score in graphics, gameplay, sound, and fun. This makes it a must-play for horror game fans.
The gameplay has improved a lot. You can now use weapons and a flashlight, making it more fun and challenging. The fast-paced chases and different enemies keep you guessing and excited.
The visuals are stunning, with smoother frames and clearer textures. The mix of real and surreal elements creates a haunting beauty. You’ll solve complex puzzles that fit right into the game’s eerie world. Six, your AI friend, helps with puzzles and keeps enemies off your back. It’s something you’ll remember long after playing. The soundtrack is another highlight. It perfectly matches the game’s scary vibe. The music makes the game even more intense and memorable.
Even though the game is tough, it’s designed to be fair. You’ll find checkpoints often, so you won’t lose much progress. There are also collectibles to find, adding to the game’s replay value. This makes the game worth playing more than once, even if it only lasts 4-5 hours.
6. Dragon Ball FighterZ
- Genre (s): Action
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Arc System Works
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: January 26, 2018
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 8 OS/ 3.2 GHz Processor/ 4 GB RAM/ 6 GB Storage/ 1 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 12+
Dragon Ball FighterZ, an amazing Dragon Ball gaming adventure takes you on a unique journey. It’s a 3v3 2D fighting game that brings the anime series to life. The game offers fast action that pulls you into the Dragon Ball world like never before. It uses a vibrant cel-shaded art style that looks just like the anime. With 24 unique characters, each with their own moves and powers, it’s a diverse and exciting experience. You’ll find favorites like Goku and Vegeta, as well as lesser-known fighters like Ginyu and Nappa.
The story mode features three original stories that give a fresh look at the Dragon Ball world. You’ll enjoy conversations between your favorite characters as you explore clone invasions and meet Android 21. However, the story’s pace can be slow at times. You might find some weak clone battles that break the flow.
The arcade mode offers a different and exciting challenge. It has difficulty paths and themed teams that test your skills. You can also unlock cosmetic items through combo challenges and loot boxes. These items can be bought with in-game currency, not real money. This makes the game rewarding and generous.
Dragon Ball FighterZ lets you battle players from all over the world. You can meet and fight other chibi-styled avatars in the game’s online lobby. But the lobby system sometimes has connectivity issues. This can cause slowdowns when starting the game offline. Local tournament organizers should also note that there’s no default offline lobby option. This might make organizing tournaments a bit harder.
5. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown
- Genre (s): Action, Simulation
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: February 01, 2019
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 8 OS/ 3.9 GHz Processor/ 4 GB RAM/ 50 GB Storage/ 2 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 12+
The Ace Combat series has been a favorite in aerial combat games for over 20 years. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is the latest addition. It uses Unreal Engine 4 and trueSky technology.
The game has two flight models. One is easy for beginners, and the other is more realistic for experienced players. Both options make the game fun and responsive. You can do complex maneuvers and fight intense battles. It offers a fun yet challenging dogfighting experience great for both new players and those who love flight combat.
Players can improve their planes and unlock many weapons through a detailed tech tree. This adds a lot to the game’s strategy. The game’s aerial battles are fast-paced and require quick thinking and planning. Multiplayer dogfights, supporting up to 8 players, are especially exciting. Even without a training mode, the controls are so good that players can jump right into the action.
In multiplayer, you can join team battles or play free-for-all. It’s a fun and competitive experience. You can also customize your plane’s look, making your flying experience even more personal.
The game runs smoothly on PC, without stressing your hardware too much. We tested it with various graphics cards. The AMD Radeon RX580 and RX Vega 64, and NVIDIA’s RTX 2080Ti and GTX980Ti, all performed well. They kept the game running at 60 frames per second at 1080p and 1440p, even at 4K with the RTX 2080Ti.
The game’s detail goes beyond visuals. It includes realistic weather like thunderstorms and fog. These effects not only look great but also change how you play. Lightning can disable your weapons, and high winds can steer your plane off course. Plus, it has VR support for some missions, making the experience even more thrilling.
4. Tales of Symphonia
- Genre (s): JRPG
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: February 02, 2016
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows Vista (32-bit) OS/ 2.4 GHz Processor/ 1 GB RAM/ 7 GB Storage/ 512 MB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 12+
Tales of Symphonia is a beloved JRPG that follows Lloyd Irving and his friends. They aim to save two worlds. This game was first on the GameCube but now it’s on modern PCs. It lets a new generation enjoy its story and gameplay.
Exploring Tales of Symphonia introduces you to a real-time 3D battle system. It lets you mix hundreds of special attacks and magic spells. The game’s cel-shaded characters’ (designed by renowned artist Kosuke Fujishima) graphics and symphonic soundtrack make the world come alive.
The game’s story and characters are still the main focus. However, the PC version has some issues. It has longer loading times, visual problems, and AI issues in battles. The battle system, though real-time, has been called “fake 3D” and feels linear. Some fans say the GameCube version was smoother.
Another problem is the save system. Saving is only allowed in certain spots, and some are hard to reach. This has caused lost progress due to crashes. Despite these problems, the story and characters keep players engaged, making it a classic worth playing.
3. Tekken 8
- Genre (s): Action
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: January 26, 2024
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 10 (64-bit) OS/ 3.5 GHz Processor/ 8 GB RAM/ 100 GB Storage/ 4 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 16+
Tekken 8, the latest in the Tekken series, is here to change the game. Bandai Namco has brought us a game with 32 characters, including Azucena, Reina, and Victor. It runs on Unreal Engine 5, offering amazing visuals and better performance.
The game introduces new mechanics like the Heat System and Special Style. These features are great for both new players and those who have been playing for years. Plus, you can play against others on different platforms, making the game more exciting.
This game has a wide range of game modes for everyone. The single-player story mode, “The Dark Awakens,” is a thrilling ride through the Mishima family drama. It offers a movie-like experience.
Then there’s Arcade Quest, a special mode where you can make your own character. You’ll go through different arcade settings, improving your skills and learning the game’s secrets.
Tekken Ball is back, bringing fun and excitement to the game. Online play is smooth and works across different platforms. You can also customize your fighters to show off your style.
Super Ghost Battle mode uses AI to create opponents that play like humans. It’s a great way to practice and get better. The Tekken Fight Lounge is an online space for players to meet and play together, making the multiplayer experience even better.
2. Death Note Killer Within
- Genre (s): Casual, Strategy
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Grounding Inc.
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: November 05, 2024
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 10 (64-bit) OS/ 2.7 GHz Processor/ 8 GB RAM/ 3 GB Storage/ 4 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 12+
Death Note Killer Within combines the psychological horror and killer protagonist of the anime with social deduction. It’s inspired by games like Among Us. The game has a fun, campy vibe, just like the original Death Note.
This mix of Death Note and social deduction appeals to fans of the anime and psychological horror. Death Note Killer Within offers a unique experience, blending Japanese anime with engaging gameplay. It promises to be an immersive and thrilling game for players.
Players become Kira or the Investigative team, playing a game of deduction and strategy. Each team has its own goals. The day and night cycles make it even more challenging. You must figure out who to trust and make important decisions during votes.
Team Kira players aim to find and kill “L”. They are helped by Ryuk and Rem, who can steal ID cards. This lets Team Kira use the Death Note during the day. If you write a player’s name in the Death Note, they lose control and face death.
Team Investigators, led by a player as L, must find Kira and arrest them. They gather clues by talking to NPCs and doing tasks like delivering items. The team that fills their victory meter first wins.
1. The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan
- Genre (s): Horror, Adventure
- Platform: Windows
- Developer(s): Supermassive Games
- Publisher(s): Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Released on: August 30, 2019
- Campaign Mode: Single Player, Multiplayer
- Minimum System Requirements: Windows 7 OS/ 3.2 GHz Processor/ 8 GB RAM/ 80 GB Storage/ 4 GB dedicated Graphic card required.
- Age-Rating: 16+
Supermassive Games, known for “Until Dawn,” brings us “The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan.” This survival horror game offers a cinematic and thrilling experience. You’ll explore the terrifying journey of five young friends on an abandoned World War II freighter.
“Man of Medan” presents a serious and brooding narrative. You’ll make choices that impact the characters’ fates. The game has a runtime of about five hours. It encourages multiple playthroughs, especially in its engaging online co-op mode.
The game’s online co-op mode stands out. Two players control different characters at the same time. This creates a dynamic interplay as you and your friend must communicate and make decisions with limited information. It adds tension and hilarity to the game.
Based on the urban legend of the Ourang Medan, a real-life ship with a mysterious history, Man of Medan combines supernatural elements and government secrets. It crafts a gripping horror narrative. The game’s cinematic quality is top-notch. Supermassive Games recorded actual ship sounds for an authentic atmosphere. The lighting and dust particle effects also enhance the immersive horror experience.
Conclusion
Bandai Namco has so many amazing games, and these 10 are just a taste of what they offer. Each game added something unique to my gaming experience, whether it was epic battles, touching stories, or thrilling action. If you haven’t tried them yet, I totally recommend checking them out. Also, I’m super excited for their new games coming out in 2025.
What are your favorite games from Bandai Namco? Drop a comment and let me know!
FAQs
What is Bandai Namco Entertainment?
Bandai Namco Entertainment is Japan's third largest gaming company. It's known for a wide range of games. From deep JRPGs to fun arcade classics, they have it all.
What is the history of Bandai Namco?
Bandai started in 1950 making toys. Namco began in 1955 with arcade games. They merged in 2006, becoming Namco Bandai Games, later Bandai Namco Entertainment.
This merge combined Bandai's toy skills with Namco's gaming talent. It made them a big name in the industry.
What is the most sold Bandai Namco game?
The highest-selling game from Bandai Namco is "Tekken 3," which has sold millions of copies worldwide. This popular fighting game is part of the Tekken series and is well-loved for its engaging gameplay and memorable characters.
Is Bandai Namco bigger than Nintendo?
Bandai Namco and Nintendo are both significant players in the video game industry, but they differ in size and scope.
Nintendo is generally considered larger in terms of revenue and global brand recognition, largely due to its iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon.
Bandai Namco is also a major company, known for titles such as Tekken and Pac-Man, but it operates in various entertainment sectors beyond just video games.
Overall, Nintendo tends to have a more prominent presence in the gaming market.
