Spy x Anya: Operation Memories is a very simple but pleasant game that takes advantage of its source material to create a breezy tie-in title. There’s not a ton to it, but what’s here is charming enough for series fans to have a good time.
Spy x Anya: Operation Memories
Developer: Groove Box Japan Co., Ltd.
Price: $50
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 (reviewed), Nintendo Switch, and PC
MonsterVine was provided with a PS5 code for review
I’m rather fond of the Spy x Family manga/anime series. It’s a delightful blend of silly comedy and memorable characters in a world of espionage and intrigue, all centering around the adorable kid character Anya. This new game, Spy x Anya: Operation Memories, focuses on the titular character and her family life, making for a laid-back and straightforward tie-in game that can quite effectively hook you.
The title puts you in the role of Anya as she puts together an album of memories for a school project – a convenient enough reason to take part in all sorts of different minigames and activities in unique locations. Your primary goal is to take photos of Anya doing fun activities in each location to create a strong project for her to hand in, as this will allow her to succeed in school and, at the same time, help her adoptive father Loid’s overarching mission as a spy.
It’s a bit like a more segmented version of Pokémon Snap, as you have to try and perfect your framing, timing, and focus to take the perfect pictures of each activity. There’s a pleasant nostalgia for sending Anya and her family to places like museums and the beach as you take photos of funny moments and memories, and I was easily able to vibe with the relaxing tone of Spy x Anya: Code Memories‘ core gameplay loop.
“As someone who loves the series, I was able to still enjoy it after the first five or so hours, but I can’t say those who don’t dig the series would do the same.“
Outside of this loop, there’s a surprisingly wide variety of minigames to partake in that can earn you currency for new outfit pieces. These are where players get to perform battles as Yor or spy missions as Loid, adapting the action/comedy dynamic of the show. Of course, there are smaller-stakes minigames as well, such as card games and bowling, that are all neat to play a couple of times. These aren’t hugely essential and can be skipped, as you’ll likely do after a few tries.
Credit: Bandai Namco
Though simplicity is part of the deal, it can make Spy x Anya: Operation Memories feel stale if played for too long. I was often drawn back in by how frequently you make progress, but the game runs out of tricks fairly quickly, leading it to primarily rely on character moments for those familiar with the series.
After you’ve played all the minigames once or twice and seen each of the locales, you’ll likely be a bit bored between character interactions, making this a tough sell for anyone outside of hardcore series fans. As someone who loves the series, I was able to still enjoy it after the first five or so hours, but I can’t say those who don’t dig the series would do the same.
The Final Word
Spy x Anya: Operation Memories is a pleasant and laid-back romp for fans of Spy x Family. Though it may wear thin a bit quickly for anyone outside of the fanbase, the varied minigames and breezy story and character interactions will make this a decent time for fans of the series.
MonsterVine Rating: 3.5 out of 5 – Fair
