by DREAM!In The Devil Butler and the Black Cat, Gakuen Idolmaster, Tokyo Debunker, and Heaven Burns Red Lead Fan Voting
The relationship between anime and video games has never been stronger. In recent years, numerous popular games have successfully made the transition to television anime, introducing beloved characters and stories to entirely new audiences.
The trend continued throughout 2026 with high-profile adaptations such as Arne’s Case Files, NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE, and Witch on the Holy Night receiving anime projects.
With so many successful adaptations appearing in recent years, fans naturally have their own wish lists of games they hope will receive anime versions next.
To find out which titles viewers most want to see animated, Anime! Anime! Conducted a reader survey titled “Which Game Would You Like to See Animated? (First Half of 2026 Edition).”
The survey was held from May 27 to June 7, 2026, gathering responses from 305 participants. The gender ratio was nearly balanced, with approximately 45% male and 55% female respondents. In terms of age demographics, around 30% of participants were under 19 years old, while another 30% were in their 30s.
This article focuses on the mobile and app game category, revealing the titles fans most want to see adapted into anime.
Why Game-to-Anime Adaptations Are More Popular Than Ever
Video games have become one of the most important sources of anime adaptations.
Mobile games, in particular, often feature:
- Extensive worldbuilding
- Deep character relationships
- Original music and voice acting
- Long-running storylines
- Dedicated fan communities
Many of these elements translate naturally into anime storytelling.
As game narratives continue to become more sophisticated, fans are increasingly eager to see their favorite stories brought to life through animation.
1st Place: DREAM! ing
The biggest winner of the survey was DREAM! ing, which captured approximately 14% of all votes.
Originally launched in 2018, DREAM! ing follows a group of male students attending Shinonome Academy. Through a special system known as “Yume Live”, students perform in pairs within dreams while competing to become the academy’s top students.
Although the game’s service ended in 2021, the franchise remains active through stage plays, musicals, exhibitions, and other projects.
Fans cited several reasons why the series deserves an anime adaptation:
- Strong psychological storytelling
- Deep character development
- Emotional relationship dynamics
- Visually impressive dream performances
One respondent commented:
“I’ve been waiting for an anime adaptation ever since the game launched. The story explores human psychology in a way that’s both easy to understand and emotionally powerful.”
Another fan highlighted the visual potential of the series:
“The dream performances would look incredible in animated form.”
Many voters also praised the game’s realistic portrayal of personal growth, identity struggles, and interpersonal relationships.
The franchise’s upcoming 8th Anniversary Exhibition at Machida Modi later this year has further renewed interest in the possibility of an anime adaptation.
2nd Place: The Devil Butler and the Black Cat
Taking second place was The Devil Butler and the Black Cat, commonly known among fans as Akuneko.
The story follows a protagonist transported to another world through a mysterious golden ring. There, they encounter a group of loyal butlers who refer to the protagonist as their “Master.”
What begins as a fantasy support story gradually reveals darker themes involving trauma, despair, supernatural powers, and emotional healing.
Fans praised the game for balancing:
- Heartwarming daily life moments
- Dark character backstories
- Fantasy action
- Emotional storytelling
One respondent noted:
“The butlers support the protagonist, but each of them carries painful emotional scars. The balance between comfort and tragedy is what makes the story so compelling.”
Others expressed excitement about seeing the game’s demon-versus-angel battles animated.
The stylish character designs and dramatic supernatural action were frequently cited as major reasons the title would work well as an anime series.
3rd Place (Tie): Gakuen Idolmaster
Sharing third place was Gakuen Idolmaster.
As part of the long-running Idolmaster franchise, the game takes place at Hatsuboshi Academy, where players assume the role of a producer guiding aspiring idols toward success.
Fans pointed to several strengths that could translate well into animation:
- Character-focused storytelling
- Emotional growth arcs
- Idol performances
- Concert scenes
Many respondents specifically mentioned wanting to see the game’s live performances recreated through anime-quality animation and music production.
3rd Place (Tie): Tokyo Debunker
Also tied for third place was Tokyo Debunker.
Set within the mysterious Darkwick Academy, the story follows students who have formed pacts with demons while investigating supernatural incidents.
The protagonist is cursed with a grim fate: death within one year.
Fans praised the game’s blend of:
- Supernatural mystery
- Horror elements
- School drama
- Emotional storytelling
Many voters described the narrative as both disturbing and deeply moving, making it one of the strongest candidates for a future anime adaptation.
3rd Place (Tie): Heaven Burns Red
Rounding out the top three positions was Heaven Burns Red.
Created by renowned writer Jun Maeda, known for works such as CLANNAD and AIR, the game combines emotional storytelling, humor, and dramatic science-fiction action.
The story follows a group of girls fighting mysterious lifeforms threatening Earth.
Fans highlighted:
- Strong emotional narratives
- Excellent character chemistry
- High-quality music
- Large-scale battles
The title has consistently ranked highly in anime adaptation surveys, demonstrating long-standing demand from players.
Other Notable Titles Receiving Support
Several additional games attracted significant attention despite not reaching the top three positions.
Ride Kamens
Ride Kamens received praise for its unique concept involving 16 Kamen Rider-inspired heroes and visually striking battle sequences.
Memento Mori
MementoMori earned votes from fans who hope to see a deeper exploration of the witches’ personal stories through anime.
Atelier Resleriana
Atelier Resleriana attracted support from longtime Atelier fans who want to see the crossover cast brought to life on screen.
Honkai: Star Rail
Honkai: Star Rail also received considerable support.
Fans pointed to its:
- Multiple planets
- Expansive worldbuilding
- Strong narrative arcs
- Cinematic presentation
Many respondents specifically mentioned the Omphalos storyline as material worthy of a full anime adaptation.
Games Excluded from Ranking
Interestingly, several popular titles received enough votes to rank highly but were excluded because anime adaptations have already been announced or are currently in production.
These included:
- Genshin Impact
- Project SEKAI Colorful Stage! feat. Hatsune Miku
Their continued popularity demonstrates the strong connection between gaming and anime audiences.
Top 10 Results
- DREAM!ing
- The Devil Butler and the Black Cat
- Gakuen Idolmaster
- Tokyo Debunker
- Heaven Burns Red
- Limbus Company
- Poker Chase
- Kamihime Project
- Touhou LostWord
- Break My Case
- Persona 5: The Phantom X
- Honkai: Star Rail
The Growing Future of Game Anime Adaptations
As mobile games continue to invest in larger stories, stronger character writing, and higher production values, the line between games and anime continues to blur.
Whether it’s the psychological drama of DREAM! In the fantasy storytelling of The Devil Butler and the Black Cat, or the emotional science-fiction adventure of Heaven Burns Red, fans have made it clear that there is no shortage of games they want to see adapted.
With the anime industry increasingly turning to games as a source of new projects, some of the titles on this list may eventually make the jump from smartphone screens to television screens.
Until then, fans will continue imagining how their favorite stories, characters, and worlds might look in animated form.
