Summary
- Release Year: 1993
- Genres: Fighting, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Sport
- Platforms: Family Computer
- Developers: Technos Japan
- Publishers: Technos Japan
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League: A Retro Gem That Still Scores
Released in 1993 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League is a side-scrolling soccer game that quickly became a fan favorite. The game, originally known as Kunio-Kun no Nekketsu Soccer League in Japan, was developed and published by Technōs Japan and features the popular Kunio-kun character, known in the West as Double Dragon.
Gameplay
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League is a fast-paced and action-packed soccer game that combines traditional soccer gameplay with over-the-top special moves and power-ups. Players can choose from a variety of teams, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete against the computer or against friends.
The gameplay is simple yet addictive. Players control their team of soccer players on a 2D field, using buttons to pass, shoot, and tackle. The game also features a variety of special moves, such as powerful shots and tackles, that can be used to gain an advantage over opponents.
Story
The story of Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League is simple but charming. Players take on the role of Kunio-kun, the captain of Nekketsu High School’s soccer team. Kunio and his team must compete in a series of tournaments in order to qualify for the Technos Japan Cup, the most prestigious soccer tournament in the world.
Along the way, Kunio and his team must face off against a variety of colorful and challenging opponents, including rival soccer teams, street gangs, and even a team of ninjas. With Kunio’s leadership and the help of his friends, Nekketsu High School must overcome all obstacles and prove that they are the best soccer team in the world.
Characters
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League features a cast of memorable and charismatic characters. In addition to Kunio-kun, players can also control a variety of other characters, including:
- Misako: The manager of Nekketsu High School’s soccer team. Misako is a strong and determined young woman who is always there to support her team.
- Riki: Kunio’s best friend and a powerful fighter. Riki is a valuable member of the soccer team, using his strength and fighting skills to intimidate opponents.
- Hamada: A skilled soccer player with a cool and collected demeanor. Hamada is the team’s playmaker and is always looking for the perfect pass.
- Nakayama: A fast and agile soccer player. Nakayama is the team’s speedster and is always ready to make a run down the wing.
Graphics and Sound
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League features colorful and vibrant graphics that are typical of SNES games. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are full of life and movement. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the excitement and energy of the game.
Legacy
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts today. The game has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay, charming characters, and over-the-top special moves.
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League has also been ported to a variety of other platforms, including the Game Boy, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. The game has also been featured in several compilations, including the Kunio-kun Retro Brawler Bundle and the Double Dragon & Kunio-kun: Retro Brawler Bundle.
Conclusion
Kunio-kun’s Nekketsu Soccer League is a classic SNES game that still holds up today. With its fast-paced gameplay, charming characters, and over-the-top special moves, the game is sure to provide hours of fun for both retro gaming enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Review Score
9/10