Killer Is Dead

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Killer Is Dead is a stylish action game from Grasshopper Manufacture. You play as Mondo Zappa, an Executioner working for a government group in a near-future Earth where people can be infected by Dark Matter from the Moon. His job is to hunt down and kill those tainted by Dark Matter.

Gameplay focuses on fast, cinematic combat. Mondo wields a katana and a transforming cybernetic gun arm. He fights through twelve mission-based levels that range from linear to exploratory, with some areas needing switches to proceed. Combos are essential: the longer you chain hits, the more powerful your attacks become, and at high levels you unlock special moves and upgrade materials. Some enemies can only be finished with cinematic finishers after absorbing enough blood from foes. Mondo can block and dodge; a well-timed dodge triggers Adrenaline Rush, slowing enemies so he can land a rapid flurry of attacks. The gun arm can switch between three modes: Bullet Shot (rapid fire), Freeze Shooter (ice bullets that slow or stop enemies), and Charge Cannon (high-damage charged shots).

There are three main mission types: story missions that advance the plot, sub-missions inside levels with various tasks, and Scarlet missions where Mondo faces combat challenges from his ally Scarlet. After each mission, players earn ranks and upgrade items or in-game currency, which can be spent on a fourth type of mission called Gigolo Missions. In those missions, Mondo goes on dates with women to build up a “Guts” meter. Gifts like flowers, chocolates, or lingerie can boost the woman’s attachment to him, but looking at sensitive areas can reduce his score. Completing Gigolo Missions unlocks weapon upgrades.

The game is set on a near-future Earth where Dark Matter creates mindless monsters called Wires. The Bryan Execution Firm, led by cyborg founder Bryan Roses and his second-in-command Vivienne Squall, sends Mondo to defeat those infected. Mondo is haunted by dreams and memories of Moon River, the Moon’s ruler, and Dolly, a dream-witch who manipulates memories. David is the main antagonist who seizes control of the Moon and plans to conquer Earth. Mika Takekawa, a young woman connected to Mondo, is drawn into the conflict. The plot weaves themes of blood, power, and identity, with twists about Mondo and David being brothers and their intertwined fates.

Development began in 2009, with full work starting in 2011. Creator Goichi Suda was inspired by James Bond and The Smiths when naming and shaping the project. Killer Is Dead is not a direct sequel to Killer7, but it keeps Suda’s signature style and mixes No More Heroes-inspired swordplay with expanded guns and combat systems. The visuals use an evolved cel-shaded look.

Release and editions: The game came out in 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, with a Windows version following in 2014 as Killer Is Dead: Nightmare Edition. The PC version adds a Nightmare difficulty mode. The game features both English and original Japanese voice tracks in many regions.

Reception and sales: The PS3 and Xbox 360 versions received mixed reviews, with critics praising the art direction and dodge-based combat but criticizing the story, some control issues, and the controversial Gigolo Missions. The PC Nightmare Edition received somewhat better scores from some outlets. By 2025, the game had sold over 1 million copies.