If you’re a Digimon fan, you’ve probably been busy diving into the new game, Digimon Story: Time Stranger. But just in case you missed it, Bandai Namco gave the community a special treat-a surprise four-minute anime short called “Prelude.” This beautifully animated piece acts as a direct prequel to the game, giving us a glimpse into the lives of the main characters right before their epic journey begins.
It’s a fantastic piece of storytelling that enriches the game’s narrative, setting the emotional stage for the adventure ahead. Whether you’ve already started playing or are just about to, this is one piece of Digimon content you won’t want to skip.
What is the “Prelude” Anime Short?
“Prelude” is a short, beautifully animated film that focuses on the game’s protagonist, Inori, and her younger brother, Yuta, just before the main story kicks off. Set to the game’s official theme song, “wherever you are” by reche, the short does a wonderful job of establishing their relationship and hinting at the challenges they are about to face. It’s packed with emotion and offers crucial context that makes the game’s opening moments even more impactful.
The short was directed by Taku Kimura, who is known for his work on an episode of Star Wars: Visions, so it has some serious talent behind it. It’s not just a simple promo; it’s a legitimate piece of the Time Stranger story.
Connecting to the Story of ‘Time Stranger’
Digimon Story: Time Stranger, which launched on October 3, 2025, is an ambitious RPG that has players traveling across time and parallel worlds to save both the human and Digital Worlds from collapse. The game focuses heavily on the bond between humans and their Digimon partners, and “Prelude” reinforces this theme perfectly.
By watching the short, you get a better sense of Inori’s motivations and the personal stakes involved in her adventure. While you can certainly enjoy the game without it, watching “Prelude” adds an extra layer of emotional depth that makes the entire experience feel more complete. Community discussions have noted that watching it after playing the game can also hit hard, re-contextualizing events with newfound emotional weight.
A Welcome Return for the ‘Digimon Story’ Series
Fans have been waiting a long time for a new entry in the Digimon Story line, especially after the success of the Cyber Sleuth games. Time Stranger looks to be a worthy successor, blending the monster-collecting and turn-based battles we love with a mature, character-driven narrative. The release of a high-quality anime short shows that Bandai Namco is fully invested in making this a premium experience for fans.
It’s a smart move that bridges the gap between the games and the anime-the two pillars that have defined the Digimon franchise for over two decades. It respects the fans’ love for the animated side of the universe while building excitement for the interactive one.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is “Prelude”?
- “Prelude” is a four-minute animated short that serves as a prequel to the new game, Digimon Story: Time Stranger.
- Where can I watch the anime short?
- The short is available to watch for free on the official Bandai Namco YouTube channels, with options for both Japanese audio with English subtitles and an English dub.
- Do I need to watch “Prelude” to understand the game?
- No, it’s not essential, but it is highly recommended. It provides emotional context for the game’s story and main characters.
- When did Digimon Story: Time Stranger release?
- The game launched on October 3, 2025.
- What platforms is the game available on?
- Digimon Story: Time Stranger is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
- Does the short contain major spoilers for the game?
- No, it’s a prelude, so it sets up the story without spoiling any major plot twists from the game itself. It focuses on events that happen right before the game begins.
Conclusion
The release of the “Prelude” anime short is a brilliant move by Bandai Namco and a wonderful gift to the Digimon community. It not only builds hype for Digimon Story: Time Stranger but also shows a deep respect for the franchise’s anime roots. By taking the time to craft a meaningful and emotional prequel, the team has made the world of Time Stranger feel more alive and its story more personal. If you’re a Digimon fan, do yourself a favor and spend four minutes with “Prelude.” It’s the perfect appetizer for what promises to be an unforgettable digital adventure.