Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions is an arcade-style action soccer game set in the world of the long-running anime and manga series. It emphasizes high-speed matches filled with exaggerated special techniques and dramatic moments rather than realistic simulation. The Deluxe Edition on PC delivers the full experience with additional character content included from the start.
Gameplay
Matches unfold at a brisk pace with simplified controls that prioritize flashy super plays over intricate passing networks. Players execute powerful shots, defensive maneuvers, and team combinations that trigger animated cutscenes when conditions align. The visual style uses toon shading to keep the action vibrant and true to the source material while incorporating some realistic ball physics and environmental effects. Customization options allow adjustments to player stats, skills, and team formations, with progression tied to story advancement and match performance. The core loop revolves around chaining offensive bursts and timely counters in short, intense halves.
Game Modes
Two distinct single-player campaigns form the backbone of the experience. Episode Tsubasa follows the established storyline centered on protagonist Tsubasa Oozora as he competes in national middle school tournaments. Episode New Hero shifts focus to a created character who joins one of several middle schools, builds relationships with teammates, learns new abilities through training, and advances toward an international U-16 event called the Junior Youth World Challenge. Multiplayer options include local versus matches, split-screen play, and online ranked competition where teams can incorporate leveled custom players. Additional features encompass a versus mode against AI opponents and a gallery section for viewing unlocked story scenes and audio tracks.
Teams and Progression
Over twenty national squads appear alongside more than one hundred individual characters drawn from the Captain Tsubasa universe. In the New Hero campaign, available starting schools include Nankatsu Middle School, Furano Middle School, Toho Academy, Musashi Middle School, Otomo Middle School, and Hanawa Middle School. Character development occurs through repeated matches and training sessions that unlock signature moves and improve attributes. Online play supports team building with these unlocked elements for competitive climbing through divisions.
Is It Worth Playing?
Reception has been mixed among critics while Steam user reviews sit at mostly positive overall, with recent feedback trending very positive. The game suits fans of the anime who want direct control over signature techniques in fast matches and players seeking an accessible arcade soccer title with narrative depth. Those preferring simulation depth or frequent post-launch content may find the 2020 release dated in those areas. The combination of story campaigns and online options provides solid replay value for the right audience without requiring additional purchases beyond the base package.
