TakaNeko Retro Review – My Hero One’s Justice (Impressions)

Justice For All

I’m usually one to come late to the party so here is another TakaNeko Retro Review featuring the anime arena fighter, My Hero One’s Justice. This video game is based on the popular anime, My Hero Academia by Kōhei Horikoshi and published by Viz Media.

The story is set in an alt-Earth where superpowers (Quirks) are a genetic phenomenon present in 80% of people on Earth. Teenage heroes in training undergo the heroic trials from day to day, eventually clashing with super villains. Nearly every character is unique in their own way, lending to an exciting series that has taken the world by storm. Rightfully so, during a surge of superhero mania in mainstream media.

My Hero One’s Justice was original released on August 23, 2018 – and I’ve only just picked it up. This article should serve to quell anybody who’s on the fence to pick up this game.

First impressions for My Hero One’s Justice, game are highly positive! This game was made for fans, and the wait has been worth it. Presentation is key to any video game, and the comic book aesthetic in this game is too exciting to ignore. Nearly every option showcases character(s) in the background with dynamic poses and angles.

Credit: BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc.

Characters and Customization

To start with, Character models are one-to-one recreations from the show rendered in 3D models with unique looks and striking colors. The roster of 21 characters and two extra characters available as downloadable content. Each of theme is customization to a certain degree depending on the character type.

Costume accessories are made available for purchase throughout the game through an in-game currency earned through regular play. For instance, want to make your favorite character look cool with booster rockets on his/her legs? Go for it! Want to see a fearsome villain with silly sunglasses and a Russian nesting dolls on his shoulders? Go crazy.

Story Mode

The featured story mode covers most if not all of Season 3 of the anime with a hero and villain perspective. The story is told through a combination of comic book panels and dynamic cut scenes. This may feel like a lackluster form of storytelling, which is a shame given the great character models. With any luck, anyone used to reading motion comics or manga could appreciate this style of storytelling, but it’s no deal breaker.

Heroic Arena Fighter

Fights are fun and dynamic, with a system that closely resembles that of the Naruto Ninja Storm series. One can either fight solo or with two sidekicks who offer assist attacks or increased mobility. Not finding battles on the ground exciting? Take the fight into the air, or onto the side of a building. This verticaly is a welcome addition to the arena fighter, and I’m impressed every time I turn the map sideways to keep hammering on my opponent.

Heroes and villains make spectacular entrances into the fight, and winning a fight is super satisfying. Whether you are finishing the fight with a Plus Ultra finisher or a basic attack – that “WIN” graphic burst onto the screen with a dramatic burst.

Credit: BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc.

Mission Mode

Lastly, there’s Mission mode which looks like it’s going to be interesting. Most of the time, mission mode can be reduced to a list of impossible challenges. However, it’s actually a mini-map adventure mode.

A team of three go through a city map fighting opponents to earn exp and custom gear for the roster. Additionally, the player can collect consumables that restore health and add buffs to your team to make fights easier. Your team’s health does not regenerate so chose your battles wisely.

Conclusion

While this isn’t an overall review, it’s safe to say that this is a worthwhile title for any fan of the My Hero Academia series. I keep coming back to engage with the story, it’s characters, and it’s brilliant aesthetic. I can hardly think of any improvements that can be made to the game besides improved customization and more characters.

As an added bonus, My Hero One’s Justice 2 has already been announced by Bandai Namco, and the game is already quite affordable for anyone who is looking to pick it up. I can’t wait to see what comes next. Plus Ultra!

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