The phrase suggests a perceived similarity between the immersive qualities of a video game and the visual storytelling conventions of Japanese comics. This alignment can manifest as a game incorporating art styles reminiscent of graphic novels or a narrative so deeply engaging that its experience mirrors the impact of reading a compelling series of illustrations. An example would be a title featuring cel-shaded graphics, exaggerated character expressions, and melodramatic plot developments, common features in popular forms of Japanese sequential art.
The significance lies in its ability to attract a wider audience by bridging the gap between interactive entertainment and established visual culture. Developers can leverage the popularity of this aesthetic to enhance player engagement and emotional investment. Historically, this convergence has emerged as technological capabilities allow for increasingly detailed and expressive representations within gaming environments, while conversely, manga has expanded its thematic scope and narrative sophistication.
