|
When darkness falls and thoughts turn to those of tragic heroes, one must give consideration to the tale of Ashita no Joe. From destitute beginnings in the Doya slums and bleak prospects to the top ranks of the boxing elite, Joe Yabuki became a hero to manga readers and college students across Japan during the tumultuous 70s. Creators Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba debuted Ashita no Joe at a time when considerable economic and social upheaval was transforming Japanese culture and Joe's trials struck a resonant chord. The PS2 game recreates the manga and animation with familiar characters, memorable matches and a faithful storyline. Characters such as archrival Toru Rikiishi, Danpei Tange, Goromaki Gondoh, Tiger Ozaki, Wolf Kanagushi, Carlos Rivera, Hamario, and World Champion Jose Mendoza show up as supporting cast. Boxing matches are viewed from a side perspective where two brutes dance and sting in rapid-fire fashion. Regulation issue health meters above each boxer gauge the progress of the fight. Story scenes are told through art panels and character interaction sequences. Defeating or losing to a contender forks the storyline into branches where new fighters challenge Joe. Nostalgic manga fans may find comfort in the Art Gallery which brims with illustrations and character profiles. View the back cover.
|
