Summary
- Release Year: 2014
- Genres: Music, Simulator
- Platforms: PlayStation 3
- Developers: Bandai Namco Games
- Publishers: Bandai Namco Games
The Idolmaster: One For All (2014)
Introduction
The Idolmaster: One For All is a Japanese raising simulation video game in The Idolmaster series, developed and published by Bandai Namco Games. The game was released in Japan on July 17, 2014, for the PlayStation 3 console. It is the first game in the series to be released on a home console since The Idolmaster 2 in 2011.
Gameplay
The player takes on the role of a producer in charge of leading and training a group of pop idols to stardom. The gameplay is similar to previous games in the series, but with several improvements and differences.
One of the most significant changes is that the player can now produce all 13 idols from 765 Production, the main talent agency featured in the series. This is in contrast to previous games, which only allowed the player to produce a limited number of idols.
Another change is that the office environment has been redesigned to give it a more natural feeling. The player can now move around the office freely and interact with the idols in a more casual way.
The game also features a new focus on “returning to the starting point” in The Idolmaster series. One For All is centered on growing alongside novice idols in a small talent agency, rather than managing a large group of established idols like in later games in the series.
Story
The story in One For All is told from the perspective of a new producer who is assigned to 765 Production. The producer’s goal is to help the idols achieve their dreams of becoming successful pop stars.
The story is divided into three chapters, each of which focuses on a different group of idols. The first chapter focuses on the original five idols from the first The Idolmaster game: Haruka Amami, Chihaya Kisaragi, Miki Hoshii, Takane Shijou, and Azusa Miura. The second chapter focuses on the six idols who were added to the series in The Idolmaster 2: Ami Futami, Mami Futami, Ritsuko Akizuki, Kyoko Igarashi, Yayoi Takatsuki, and Makoto Kikuchi. The third chapter focuses on the two idols who were added to the series in The Idolmaster: Shiny Festa: Hibiki Ganaha and Iori Minase.
Each chapter follows the idols as they work to overcome their challenges and achieve their dreams. The story is heartwarming and inspiring, and it provides a great insight into the characters and their relationships.
Characters
There are 13 playable idols in The Idolmaster: One For All. Each idol has her own unique personality and backstory.
- Haruka Amami: A cheerful and energetic idol who is always full of smiles. She is the leader of 765 Production.
- Chihaya Kisaragi: A cool and collected idol who is always striving to be the best. She is the ace of 765 Production.
- Miki Hoshii: A shy and timid idol who is always working hard to improve herself. She is the youngest member of 765 Production.
- Takane Shijou: A tsundere idol who is always putting on a tough front. She is the most popular member of 765 Production.
- Azusa Miura: A genki idol who is always full of energy. She is the mood maker of 765 Production.
- Ami Futami: A mature and responsible idol who is always looking out for her fellow idols. She is the big sister of 765 Production.
- Mami Futami: A playful and mischievous idol who is always getting into trouble. She is the little sister of 765 Production.
- Ritsuko Akizuki: A gentle and caring idol who is always there for her fellow idols. She is the mother figure of 765 Production.
- Kyoko Igarashi: A tomboyish and athletic idol who is always up for a challenge. She is the sporty one of 765 Production.
- Yayoi Takatsuki: A clumsy and forgetful idol who is always making mistakes. She is the airhead of 765 Production.
- Makoto Kikuchi: A serious and dedicated idol who is always striving to be the best. She is the rival of 765 Production.
- Hibiki Ganaha: A cheerful and optimistic idol who is always looking for the positive side of things. She is the sunshine of 765 Production.
- Iori Minase: Aクール and collected idol who is always striving to be the best. She is the ace of 961 Production.
Reception
The Idolmaster: One For All received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its improved gameplay, focus on character development, and heartwarming story.
The game was also a commercial success, selling over 250,000 copies in Japan.
Conclusion
The Idolmaster: One For All is a fun and engaging raising simulation game that allows players to experience the journey of producing a group of pop idols to stardom. With its improved gameplay and focus on growing alongside novice idols, it’s a great addition to the The Idolmaster series.
Review Score
8.5/10