Welcome back to Retro Rebound! In today’s video, we’re diving back into JUMP FORCE, a game that was released in 2019. When it was announced, it felt like a can’t-miss anime fighter, as it pulled characters from 15 different manga series. With JoJo, Dragon Ball, One Piece, Naruto, and more all in one place, JUMP FORCE had the potential to be the definitive manga fighting game. However, support for the game was dropped relatively quickly, leading to some interesting developments. In this article, we’ll explore the state of JUMP FORCE in 2023, discussing its limited availability, gameplay, and the overall experience.
Limited Availability: The Rarity of JUMP FORCE
One of the most intriguing aspects of JUMP FORCE in 2023 is its rarity. Bandai, the publisher of the game, delisted it from digital storefronts and stopped printing physical copies. As a result, JUMP FORCE is becoming increasingly rare. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone should rush out to buy it, it does add a certain level of exclusivity to the game. If you’re interested in owning a copy of JUMP FORCE, it’s worth noting that the Switch version includes the first season of characters, making it a more complete package.
Exploring the Complete Box Experience
Let’s start by discussing the complete box experience of JUMP FORCE. The PlayStation 4 version of the game comes in a standard case, featuring the tagline “Unite to fight.” The back of the box highlights some key features, such as 40 playable characters from 15 different manga series, the ability to fight online and offline, and the option to create your own avatar using elements from different mangas. However, it’s important to note that the manual is empty, as is often the case with modern games.
Character Creator: Embracing the Quirkiness
One of the standout features of JUMP FORCE is its robust character creator. Players can mix and match elements from various characters to create their own unique anime character. From crazy anime hair to gruesome eyes, the character creator allows for maximum creativity. This feature truly embodies the spirit of JUMP FORCE, which celebrates the diverse range of characters from different manga series.
The Story: Colliding Realms and Undercooked Narratives
The story of JUMP FORCE revolves around the collision of real-world locations with Shonen Jump universes. The concept of uniting the real world and various manga universes is an exciting one. Despite its potential, the story falls short of expectations. It is equal parts ridiculous and cool, but ultimately feels undercooked. The lack of voiced crossover interactions is another disappointment, as it would have added more depth to the storytelling.
Gameplay: A Clunky Fighting Experience
Most players are primarily interested in the gameplay of JUMP FORCE. The fighting system, however, can feel clunky and cumbersome. Chaining together attacks, calling in tag partners, and executing super moves lack the fluidity that players desire. Some mechanics, such as characters lying on their backs for a few seconds after being knocked back, interrupt the flow of the fights. The overall sluggishness of the combat detracts from the enjoyment of the game.
Final Thoughts: A Unique and Flawed Experience
In conclusion, JUMP FORCE in 2023 is a game that offers a unique and flawed experience. Its rarity adds a certain allure, but it’s important to note that support for the game has been discontinued. The character creator allows for creative expression, while the story falls short of its potential. The clunky fighting mechanics hinder the enjoyment of the gameplay. Despite its flaws, JUMP FORCE still holds a certain charm for fans of the manga series it represents.
Thank you for joining us on this exploration of JUMP FORCE in 2023. If you enjoyed this nostalgic and retrospective content, consider subscribing to Retro Rebound.
