Death Note Killer Hides in Plain Sight
Bandai Namco has just unveiled Death Note: Killer Within! Read on to learn more about the game and how it promises to capture the essence of Death Note.
Death Note: Killer Within is Namco’s Answer to Among Us
Death Note: Killer Within Releases This November 5
Two weeks ago, speculations arose about a new Death Note video game after it was rated in Taiwan. Fans were left wondering: Would it follow the manga’s storyline? Would it be a sequel to previous Death Note games? Or was it merely a figment of their imagination? Today, we have our answer, as Death Note: Killer Within is hitting PC, PS4, and PS5 on November 5 as part of PlayStation Plus’ free monthly lineup.
Developed by Grounding, Inc. and published by Bandai Namco, this online-only game akin to the online sensation Among Us is set to capture the essence of the series, with players assuming the roles of either Kira, the infamous notebook-wielding antagonist, or those desperately trying to stop him.
In Death Note: Killer Within, players are split into two teams representing either Kira or L, the world-renowned detective hot on his trail. Up to 10 players per session will either seek to expose Kira and seize the Death Note or protect Kira’s power and eliminate L’s team. With a format that echoes the chaotic dynamics of Among Us, players will have to rely on deduction, deception, and of course, a bit of luck to achieve their goals. "The Death Note is hidden among the players, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse until one team overpowers the other," Bandai Namco said on the game’s official website.
Customization seems to be a big part of the experience, with players able to unlock up to "seven types of accessories, and special effects displayed during key gameplay moments." While it remains an online-only experience, the developers recommend voice chat for strategizing with teammates… or, you know, screaming your lungs out as you try to prove that you’re not the killer.
Death Note: Killer Within Price Undisclosed, Could Suffer the Same Fate as Fall Guys at Launch
The game’s launch on PlayStation Plus means PS Plus subscribers will get early access without paying extra. Joining it in the November lineup will be Ghostwire: Tokyo and Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged. PC players, too, can enjoy the game through Steam, with cross-play enabled to create a larger pool of players across platforms.
The game’s price point, however, remains undisclosed. If it's priced too high in comparison to what it offers, it might struggle to compete with other deduction-based party games like Among Us and could suffer a fate similar to Fall Guys at its initial launch.
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout initially launched for free on PlayStation Plus in August 2020. Despite lacking competitive features like leaderboards, statistics, ranked modes, and tournaments, it maintained its price tag of $20. As the initial hype waned, sales began to decline, prompting Epic Games to acquire the title and release it as a free-to-play game with paid cosmetics and season passes.
It remains unclear whether the upcoming game will be priced at launch. Hopefully, the recognizable IP will help it stand out in the crowded party game market regardless of its price tag.
Death Note: Killer Within Gameplay Overview
Death Note: Killer Within flows through two main phases that mimics Among Us’ gameplay. In the Action Phase, players take to the virtual streets, gathering clues and performing tasks while eyeing anyone who seems the least bit suspicious. This is when Kira can secretly make moves with the Death Note, taking out NPCs or even other players. Beware, however, as everyone’s watching, and suspicious moves might land you in the hot seat.
The Meeting Phase, which follows, is where the real drama unfolds. Here, players come together to discuss their suspicions, vote on who might be Kira, and potentially bring them to justice—or mistakenly condemn an innocent teammate.
Unlike Among Us, however, Kira gets his own followers, who can help him through a private line of communication and by stealing IDs—a crucial asset in a game where real names are the keys to power. They can even receive the Death Note themselves if Kira decides to pass it on. Meanwhile, Investigators work behind the scenes to gather and piece together the clues. With every name they unearth and every clue they find, they narrow down the suspects, inching ever closer to unmasking Kira.
And if you're L? Your unique abilities allow you to take control of the investigation. During Action Phases, you can install surveillance cameras to gather crucial information. In Meeting Phases, you can guide discussions, expose inconsistencies, and narrow down the field of suspects.
Teamwork and deception are key to winning Death Note: Killer Within. If the game takes off and captures both fans and non-fans, just imagine the numerous streamer highlights and drama among friends that'll ensue.
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