Attack on Titan: Humanity in Chains is an action role-playing game developed for the Nintendo 3DS, released on May 12, 2015. Based on the critically acclaimed anime and manga series, this title brings the grim world of the franchise to handheld gaming, allowing players to join the elite Scout Regiment. The game is notable for being the first Attack on Titan title to reach North American shores, offering the original Japanese audio with English subtitles.

Gameplay Mechanics and Combat

At the core of Attack on Titan: Humanity in Chains is the Omni-Directional Maneuver (ODM) gear, which facilitates the game's unique traversal and combat system. Players utilize this equipment to swing through maps and slice the necks of invading Titans. The combat involves engaging various enemy types, including jumping, crawling, small, and wild abnormal Titans, each presenting distinct challenges. Enhanced Titan AI ensures that enemies react dynamically, pushing players to their limits as they defend the outer walls.

Mission objectives vary from standard Titan elimination to specific tasks such as protecting fallen soldiers or collecting items while avoiding enemy attacks. The game also incorporates Titan traps, adding strategic elements to encounters. Beyond the single-player experience, the game introduces an online co-op mode that allows players to team up with up to three friends to defend the walls together. This multiplayer component includes ranking systems and leaderboards to track performance.

Story Mode and Character Roster

The Story Mode recreates key events from the source material, spanning from the cadets' initial training to the climactic battles against the Titans. Players control a roster of familiar characters, including Eren Jaeger, Mikasa Ackermann, Armin, Levi, and Sasha. The narrative is structured through a series of missions that unlock progressively; completing missions for one character may open up new objectives for others. Players can customize their Scout members with various costumes, weapons, and voice options.

The setting remains true to the franchise's bleak atmosphere. The world has endured one hundred years of peace, only to be shattered by the return of remorseless giants bent on devouring humanity. Players must reenact intense scenes from the anime and manga, defending the three Walls from the brink of destruction. The game is punctuated by videos and themes from the series, serving as a bridge for both long-time fans and newcomers to the franchise.

Platform Features and Technical Details

Technical Highlights

  • Exclusive to Nintendo 3DS via the Nintendo eShop.
  • Support for Circle Pad Pro and C Stick on the New Nintendo 3DS XL.
  • Updated user interface and gameplay balance improvements.
  • Original Japanese audio with English subtitles.

Who It Appeals To

This title is designed primarily for fans of the Attack on Titan franchise who wish to experience the story and action firsthand. The inclusion of recognizable characters and faithfulness to the anime's setting makes it a compelling choice for series adherents. Additionally, the game appeals to action RPG enthusiasts who enjoy the novelty of high-mobility combat mechanics and the fantasy of wielding bladed melee weapons while swinging through environments. The online co-op mode also provides value for players looking to share the Titan-slaying experience with friends.