Adapting a visual novel into anime is definitely no easy feat, yet Steins;Gate stands as a stellar example of how exactly to do it right and make sure it succeeds while staying true to the source material.

Trying out the time machine | Credits: Studio White Fox

Its anime adaptation from a visual game novel has achieved an impressive feat that few anime could manage to create.

It has succeeded in compressing a complex narrative (one with multiple timelines and worlds) with branching routes into a cohesive, emotionally gripping series. The secret behind this success? Studio White Fox’s unprecedented decision to immerse their staff into the visual novel world.

How Steins;Gate perfected the art of adaptation

Unlike many adaptations that take creative liberties and try to control and cut away important plot points, Steins;Gate didn’t and went the extra mile.

Steins;Gate Official Cover | Credits: Crunchyroll

The result...