"Death Note: Killer Within" Merges Anime with "Among Us" Thrill

Bandai Namco has just unveiled Death Note: Killer Within! Dive in to discover how this game captures the essence of the iconic series.

Death Note: Killer Within is Namco’s Answer to Among Us

Death Note: Killer Within Releases This November 5

Two weeks ago, rumors swirled about a new Death Note video game after it was rated in Taiwan. Fans speculated: Would it follow the manga’s storyline? Would it be a sequel to previous games? Or just a fan's dream? Today, we have clarity. Death Note: Killer Within is set to launch on PC, PS4, and PS5 on November 5, included in PlayStation Plus’ free monthly lineup.

Developed by Grounding, Inc. and published by Bandai Namco, this online-only game, reminiscent of Among Us, aims to encapsulate the thrill of the Death Note series. Players can choose to embody Kira, the notorious notebook-wielder, or join the ranks trying to thwart his plans.

In Death Note: Killer Within, players divide into teams of Kira or L, the world-famous detective. Up to 10 players per session will work to either expose Kira and capture the Death Note or protect Kira’s power and eliminate L’s team. This setup mirrors the tension and dynamics of Among Us, where players must navigate through deduction, deception, and luck to outsmart their opponents. "The Death Note is hidden among the players, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse until one team prevails," states Bandai Namco on the game’s official website.

Customization plays a significant role in the gameplay, with options to unlock up to "seven types of accessories, and special effects displayed during key gameplay moments." Although the game is exclusively online, the developers suggest using voice chat for strategizing with teammates—or for the dramatic flair of trying to prove your innocence.

Death Note: Killer Within Price Undisclosed, Could Suffer the Same Fate as Fall Guys at Launch

The inclusion in PlayStation Plus means PS Plus subscribers can access the game without additional cost. The November lineup also features Ghostwire: Tokyo and Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. PC players can enjoy the game via Steam, with cross-play facilitating a broader player base.

However, the game's price remains a mystery. If priced too high relative to its offerings, it may struggle to compete with other deduction-based party games like Among Us, potentially facing a similar fate to Fall Guys at its launch.

Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout initially offered for free on PlayStation Plus in August 2020. Despite missing competitive features such as leaderboards, statistics, ranked modes, and tournaments, it retained a $20 price tag. As the initial excitement faded, sales declined, leading Epic Games to acquire and relaunch it as a free-to-play model with paid cosmetics and season passes.

Whether Death Note: Killer Within will have a launch price is yet to be seen. The iconic Death Note IP might help it stand out in the crowded party game market, regardless of cost.

Death Note: Killer Within Gameplay Overview

Death Note: Killer Within features two main phases, echoing Among Us’ gameplay structure. During the Action Phase, players roam virtual streets, gathering clues and performing tasks while keeping a wary eye on suspicious behavior. This is when Kira can secretly use the Death Note to eliminate NPCs or other players, but every move is under scrutiny.

The Meeting Phase that follows is where the intrigue peaks. Players gather to discuss suspicions, vote on potential Kiras, and aim to bring justice—or mistakenly accuse an innocent.

Unlike Among Us, Kira has followers who can communicate privately and steal IDs, crucial in a game where real names are power. These followers can even inherit the Death Note if Kira chooses. Meanwhile, Investigators work to gather and connect clues, gradually narrowing down suspects and closing in on Kira.

If you play as L, you can harness unique abilities to steer the investigation. In Action Phases, you can set up surveillance cameras to gather vital intel. In Meeting Phases, your skills help guide discussions, highlight inconsistencies, and zero in on suspects.

Teamwork and deception are pivotal in Death Note: Killer Within. Should the game capture both the fans and newcomers, envision the countless streamer highlights and dramatic moments among friends that will follow.