Dandadan’sproved why it’s considered the hit anime of the season with one of the most gut-wrenching backstories, which earned it the best recommendation by none other than the acclaimed video game creator, Hideo Kojima. While Hideo Kojima often shared his love for anime with multiple reviews that showcased his interesting insights into the medium, this time,Kojima comparedDandadanwith his own work, which makes it much more special.

Kojima is considered a storytelling genius for the depth of the themes explored in theDeath Strandinggames and the well-constructed characters of his magnum opus franchise,Metal Gear Solid, to which he put his utmost passion, so a comparison with his work is not to be taken lightly. Following the release ofDandadan’s episode 7, Hideo Kojima praisedthe voice actress of Acrobatic Silky, who shares a connection to a beloved mother figure fromMetal Gear Solid.

Momo and Okarun in the opening

Hideo Kojima Believes Acrobatic Silky Surpassed The Boss

The Boss Stars in One of the Saddest Scenes inMetal Gear Solid

Hideo Kojima posted on Xa double praise for the performance of Kikuko Inoue as Acrobatic Silky, also known for interpreting Lust inFullmetal Alchemistand Palm fromHunter X Hunter, which he highlighted as amazing and brilliant and stated that it surpassed her interpretation of The Boss. The Boss was a fan-favorite antagonist fromMetal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, but what makes this comparison even more meaningful is that she participated in one of the most emblematic and saddest battles of the saga against Naked Snake, with whom she shared a mother/son relationship.

“I’ll Keep Watching This” Dan Da Dan Earns Stunning Praise From Hideo Kojima

Dan Da Dan is proving to be a major hit just from a single episode, and it’s to the point that even Hideo Kojima has praised the anime.

Despite Snake and The Boss being like a mentor and student fighting together on the battlefield for a decade, they were ultimately destined to fight each other in one of the most heartfelt moments of the game. They share a strong bond, just likeAcrobatic Silky and Ariadid, as she had been watching over her since she was little, craving to give motherly love to someone after losing her daughter. Because of these resemblances, it wouldn’t be a stretch to think thatHideo Kojima might have meant more than just the voice actress when he compared both characters.

Dandadan (2024)

Hideo Kojima’s Praise HighlightsDandadan’s Incredible Adaptation

Acrobatic Silky’s Past May GiveDandadanEpisode 7 the Title of Episode of the Year

Despite Hideo Kojima’s short review, there’s no doubt he deeply enjoyed the episode, as he included several emojis on his post on X and also shared on his Instagram account a cut of Acrosilky’s heartbreaking last dance withDandadan’s opening Otonoke.

Dandadan’s episode 7 was elevated by Science SARU by extending Acrosilky’s backstory in an emotional, tear-jerking sequence that touched fans’ hearts worldwide and also sparked appraisal, with multiple viewers considering it the episode of the year and comparing it withDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcseason finale. What is certain is thatDandadan’s adaptation deserves to be celebrated by capturing the emotion conveyed in Yukinobu Tatsu’s detailed art and enhancing it in a way that is even acknowledged by great creators like Hideo Kojima.

Dandadan

Cast

Two high school students, embroiled in a wager to prove the existence of ghosts or aliens, encounter daunting paranormal threats, acquire superpowers, and possibly discover love. The series blends supernatural elements with personal dynamics as the protagonists navigate their newfound abilities and unexpected challenges.