Spy x Family has taken the world by storm ever since it hit shelves a few years ago. The anime became an instant classic with its heartwarming story of an eccentric makeshift family pulling off secret missions of their own. Now with Operation Memories, developer X has tried to bottle up some of that Forger family magic into a video game experience.
Going in, I was hoping this title would let me slip into Anya’s shoes and have all sorts of wacky adventures alongside Loid, Yor, and Bond. On paper, the idea of guiding the little psychic through photo ops, bonding with friends, and throwing down in minigames sounded like a recipe for wholesome fun. However, after spending some quality time with Operation Memories, I’m afraid the finished product feels more like a half-baked attempt instead of a lesson in espionage and emotion.
While there are sparks of potential buried here and there beneath the surface, Spy x Family fans looking for a hearty serving of Forger family antics may find this outing leaves them wanting seconds. In this review, I’ll break down both the hits and missed opportunities that make Operation Memories a fun diversion for diehards, but one casual fan may want to spy on it from a distance.
Ties that Bind
Developer X surely had their work cut out for them in bringing the Spy X Family’s unique cast of characters to life in Operation Memories. Thankfully, they seem to have really listened to what makes Twilight, Yor, and Anya click on the page and screen. Stepping into their shoes feels like slipping comfortably back into a well-worn pair of loafers—like chatting with old friends you haven’t seen in far too long.
Their dynamic simply works. Anya’s boundless curiosity and mischievous scheming keep Papa and Mama on their toes. It’s endlessly amusing to watch Loid’s attempts to enact his secret spy plans through the lens of his daughter’s childish misunderstandings. And putting weapons-grade housewife Yor through her paces while handling domestic disturbances never gets old.
Of course, capturing a character is one thing; giving them a purposeful role to play is another. On that front, Operation Memories ticks all the right boxes. Anya’s school assignment serves as the perfect low-stakes MacGuffin to string together slice-of-life scenes without weighing things down in exposition. And cameos from franchise favorites like Becky and Damian help sell Westal City as a living, breathing place.
It’s in these lower-key moments peppered with personality-packed dialogue that Operation Memories truly sings. Though light on bombs-bursting-in-air intrigue, its heart lies in capturing the Forger family’s awkward chemistry, and on that front, it strikes a bullseye. Fans will find plenty here to smirk at while further cementing their affection for these charming, odd ducks.
Picture Perfect Slice of Life
While the story of Spy x Anya leaves much to be desired, the core gameplay had me hooked from the get-go. Stepping into Anya’s Mary Janes to snap pictures of her friends and family was a blast, even if it got repetitive down the stretch. Each outing put a new scenic backdrop and shenanigans within the frame, keeping things interesting for a while. I spent hours just tailing these goofballs, framing shots like I was on a National Geographic expedition.
The real stars of the show were the minigames, which I could pal around with for days on end without getting sick of. Whether I was dodging balls in gym class faster than Usain Bolt or slicing veggies like I was on Chopped, there was something here for every mood. Playing as the other forgers was a hoot too. Yor beat downs brought the ham-fisted fun, while Loid’s stealthy antics had me feeling like Solid Snake. Even simple games like Go Fish with Anya packed more charm than a box of kittens.
Now it wasn’t all flawless; the difficulty never broke a sweat, and the progression got predictable. I blew through challenges without breaking a sweat most days. I also started feeling tethered after playing photographer for so long.
Some more dynamic elements wouldn’t have hurt engagement down the stretch. Still, for awhile, the gameplay had me glued to the glass like a kid at the aquarium, soaking up the lighthearted slice-of-life vibes. I just needed more variety to keep that magic going full-time.
Overall, the core loop had me hooked for hours, even if it loosened its grip with the credits. Fans will find plenty here to tickle their rice, but it could’ve used some more complexity to broaden its appeal. Still, it is hardly a crime in my book to kick back and spend time with these charming weirdos.
Character and Quality
While not quite on the visual bar set by Wit Studio’s stunning anime adaptation, Spy x Anya brings the Forger family to life with admirable fidelity. Character models of Anya, Loid, and Yor fluid, oozes the same charming awkwardness we’ve come to love. Cutscenes, in particular, bring each character’s larger-than-life personality to the forefront.
As for technical performance, it’s mostly smooth sailing. Load times are nippy, and frame rates stayed pegged at a smooth 30 throughout my playthrough on base PS4. A few odd instances of textures taking their sweet time to materialize stood out, but they didn’t hamper the experience too badly. Bugs also kept a respectful distance; the worst I encountered was a single crash triggered by mashing buttons during a loading screen.
Voice work continues to hit it out of the park too. The Japanese cast slip back into their roles with the comfort of a well-worn glove, imbuing even mundane dialog with sincerity. Subtitles exhibit some hiccups translation-wise, but nothing too derailing. Musically, things are a mixed bag—some tracks slap, others fade into the background noise. The dodgeball theme, though? An absolute banger.
Overall production values achieve a solid “B minus”—good e enough to pass muster without fully replicating the mastery witnessed in anime form. Fans will find much to appreciate, but room for improvement remains if this becomes an annual series.
Back to Eden: Post-Game Potential and Extra Curricula
While the main story of Back to Eden provides a fulfilling narrative arc, the developers leave room for continued cultivation long after graduation. New Game+ swaps the setting to rival school Ouroboros Academy, testing your skills against bolder opposition. You can also re-enroll any created character to redo story beats with a new understanding, uncovering optional dialogue you may have missed.
Replays stay fresh thanks to robust character building. An abundance of outfit options and collectible accessories allow for outrageous self-expression, whether you favor stealthy blacks or want to stand out in electric pastels. Stats also branch beyond academics; leveling auxiliary skills unlocks concert performances, cooking recipes, or upgraded facial expressions for cinematics.
Post-story objectives encourage experimenting. Seasonal events pop up bearing limited-time trophies, and leaderboards rank overall accomplishments. “Achieve Ether” tracks esoteric goals like befriending every student or mastering extracurriculars. Completionists can unite all character types in a cooperative “Garden Party” endgame that celebrates the school’s spirit of harmony.
Backed by a lively community, your education continues well after credits roll. Player profiles showcase rare collectibles to inspire others. Discussion forums trade optimization strategies or roleplay ongoing adventures. A gallery broadcasts ingenious photo scenarios for all to enjoy. Developers even take fan suggestions for fresh story content or quality-of-life patches. With so much packed into Eden, it’s easy to want to return time and time again.
Value for Dedicated Disciples of Espionage and Families
Those who have immersed themselves in the world of witty wit protectors and cherubic children will find bits of prosperity within Spy x Anya: Operation Memories—even if the experience as a complete package falls somewhat short. For the dedicated disciples who just can’t get enough of Loid, Yor, and Anya’s heartwarming hijinks, this game will hit the spot—even if it doesn’t quite land a perfect 10 like the source material.
On one hand, simply interacting with these beloved characters again and hearing their gifted voice actors bring them to life is a delight. Fans will also get a kick out of the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it references peppered throughout their favorite episodes. Tracking down special interactions tucked away in each locale and dressing the Forger family in wild new fits can occupy hours of play for completests.
Repetition really sets in for us normies, but the diehards will stick it out longer before the luster fades. Even then, they can find refuge in perfecting photos or high scores to extend playtime. Hardcore fans curious about any new piece of Spy x Family will feel satisfied enough by these moments alone to say the game was worth it.
Unfortunately, that’s all Operator Memories offers the loyalists. Its lack of actual story means it can’t truly enhance or continue the exceptional experience of the anime or manga. What’s here won’t find space on the shelf alongside prized Blu-rays or volumes.
Still, devotees desperate for just a bit more time with the family they’ve come to adore will come away with enjoyment, even if enjoyment’s shelf life proves brief. For them, the pleasures may be pipe cleaner thin, but they’re all the same.
Forger Family’s Future
While Spy x Anya demonstrates a heartfelt dedication to bringing fans closer to the quirky Forger family, it ultimately falls short of fulfilling its potential. While the character moments provide some amusement, they aren’t enough to sustain prolonged engagement through the game’s repetitive structure. The simple yet charming cast deserves an interactive experience matching their quality.
Make no mistake, Anya’s journey captures the whimsical spirit of her TV adventures. Developing bonds and dressing the family in fanciful costumes entertains until the end credits. Moreover, full Japanese vocal performances breathe authentic life into scenes. For die-hard fans, these glimpses into Anya’s world may justify the price of admission.
However, those seeking challenge, narrative intrigue, or deep gameplay will feel underwhelmed. The underbaked systems and paltry activities wear out their welcome far too fast. It’s a real shame, too, because sparkling gems like the Pac-Man minigame hint at untapped potential. A meatier concept and more robust execution could have spies and psychics alike.
In the end, Spy x Anya offers fleeting family fun rather than a truly memorable, exclusive experience. While it respects the source material’s heart, it lacks the sophisticated subtlety and inventiveness that elevated the anime to new heights. Loyalists will find moments to cherish, but most gamers would be wise to enjoy the Forger’s adventures from afar—at least until a project matching their immense charm arrives. For now, this is a mission best left incomplete.
The Review
Spy x Anya: Operation Memories
While Spy x Anya carries the heartwarming spirit of its beloved source material, the game ultimately fails to deliver a fully satisfying interactive experience. Despite respectable character work and a few diversions, dull, repetitive structure and shallow systems undermine sustained engagement. Fans will find flashes of fun, but most players risk frustration rather than fulfillment. Attempting to faithfully recreate the joy of the Forger family was an admirable goal for this title, but uneven execution holds it back. The sporadic high points are not enough to offset the extensive lows of grinding repetition and superficial gameplay. While the love for Spy x Family is apparent, this game sadly does not live up to the standard of quality set by the anime that inspired it. With polish and vision, Spy x Anya could have been a wonderful addition; as is, it offers fleeting familiarity rather than lasting enjoyment.
PROS
- Authentic voice acting from the original Japanese cast
- Charming character interactions and new dialogue
- Fun character customization options
- Some solid individual minigames, like Pacman parody
CONS
- Shallow and repetitive overall structure
- Barebones storyline with no narrative drive
- The grinding gameplay loop wears out quickly.
- Overreliance on multiple unnecessary currency systems
- Bland visuals and framerate/loading issues
- Minimal challenge or complexity
