Aug 2020
If you ever wanted to kick a soccer ball while simultaneously channeling your inner anime hero, Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions is the game for you! For those living under a rock—or possibly a very sturdy soccer goal—this game is based on the Captain Tsubasa franchise, widely recognized for melding dramatic anime storylines with sports, and basically making soccer look more like an over-the-top superhero battle than a game where 22 people kick a ball around.
The game captures the essence of the beloved franchise with its dual story modes. You can either dive into Episode Tsubasa, which faithfully follows the original plot of the anime, or create your own player and embark on an epic journey in Episode New Hero mode. Choose to represent one of six middle schools and prepare for battles that feel less like a school soccer tournament and more like you’re battling for the fate of the universe—because who wouldn't want to own the field with flashy moves that could rival a ninja fight? Leveling up your character and executing special skills makes the experience thrilling, especially when you pull off a 100% unnecessary heroic goal shot that sends your opponent hurtling backward like they just got hit by a truck. It’s not all just glitz and glam; there’s an intuitive control system that keeps you in the game without feeling like you're juggling flaming torches on a unicycle.
On the visual front, the game shines like a new pair of soccer cleats. The cel-shaded graphics complement the anime aesthetic beautifully, making you feel like you’ve stepped right into the show—however, it sometimes feels like you’re watching soccer played on a moving painting where the colors are a bit too vibrant and the action a tad exaggerated. The character designs are faithful, with Tsubasa and crew looking dashing as ever, while the crazy special moves can range from looking ridiculously cool to absurdly hilarious. Just wait until you see a soccer ball being kicked with the force of a meteor striking Earth. It’s enough to make you question the physics of soccer entirely.
In summary, Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions offers a unique blend of heartfelt storytelling, engaging gameplay, and enough over-the-top elements to satisfy any anime or soccer fan. However, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer more realistic sports simulations—like pretending you have a vital life goal of scoring a goal in FIFA while sweating profusely on your couch and avoiding your responsibilities. Though it might have its flaws, like unclear objectives and not quite living up to the intense action-packed battles seen in anime, it remains an enjoyable adventure laden with nostalgia and charm. After all, who wouldn’t want to score the winning goal with a move that involves some cartoonish superpower? For fans of the series, this game can become a treasured part of your gaming library, while newcomers might find themselves scratching their heads (but still having a good time). So lace up those virtual boots and get ready for some soccer insanity—it’s time to rise up and be champion!
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