Rival Schools: United By Fate! A 2.5D Fighting Game Experience Like No Other

For those looking for a fighting game that breaks away from the traditional mold, Rival Schools stands out as a truly unique and exhilarating experience. Developed by Capcom in 1997 for arcades and later ported to consoles like PlayStation and Sega Saturn, this game is known for its captivating storyline interwoven with intense and dynamic gameplay.

A High School Tale With Punches and Kicks:

The plot of Rival Schools revolves around the students of two rival high schools: Gedo High and Taiyo High. After a mysterious kidnapping occurs during an inter-school martial arts tournament, suspicions fall on the members of the “Red Condor” gang, believed to be lurking within the halls of Gedo High. To uncover the truth and rescue their kidnapped classmates, a determined group from Taiyo High embarks on a thrilling journey, confronting fierce rivals and facing off against unpredictable threats.

This high school setting allows for diverse and interesting characters with unique motivations and backstories. From the stoic and powerful Batsu Ichimonji to the agile and cunning Hinata Wakaba, each fighter brings their own personality and fighting style to the table, adding depth and excitement to the gameplay experience.

Gameplay That Embraces Complexity and Style:

Rival Schools distinguishes itself from other 2D fighters with its innovative “Team Battle System.” Players can assemble a team of up to three fighters, choosing from a diverse roster of characters each possessing distinct strengths, weaknesses, and special moves. The game encourages strategic thinking as players must consider the synergy between their chosen fighters and adapt their tactics based on the opponent’s lineup.

The combat system itself is fast-paced and engaging. Featuring four attack buttons (punch, kick, strong punch, strong kick) and dedicated throw and parry buttons, Rival Schools grants players a wide range of options for executing powerful combos and punishing their opponents’ mistakes. Adding to the complexity are unique “Partner Actions” that allow teammates to assist each other during combat, creating opportunities for devastating combined attacks.

Visual Flair and Soundtrack That Amplify the Experience:

Rival Schools boasts a distinctive visual style reminiscent of classic anime. The characters are vividly designed with exaggerated features and expressive animations, making them truly come alive on screen. The vibrant backgrounds further enhance the atmosphere, capturing the essence of the high school setting with detailed environments like bustling classrooms, spacious gyms, and even a dramatic rooftop showdown.

The soundtrack perfectly complements the energetic gameplay with its blend of catchy rock tunes and upbeat techno tracks. Each character has their own theme music that reflects their personality, adding another layer of depth to the overall experience.

Rival Schools: Legacy and Impact:

Rival Schools garnered critical acclaim upon its release for its innovative team battle system, engaging storyline, and vibrant presentation. While it didn’t achieve the same mainstream success as other Capcom fighting games like Street Fighter II or Marvel vs. Capcom, it developed a loyal fan base who appreciated its unique gameplay mechanics and charming characters.

The game spawned a sequel, Rival Schools: Champions of Justice (released in 1998 for PlayStation), which introduced new characters and refined the gameplay further. However, despite attempts to revive the franchise with subsequent titles like “Rival Schools 2” for mobile platforms, it ultimately faded into obscurity.

A Hidden Gem Worthy of Exploration:

Despite its relative obscurity, Rival Schools remains a hidden gem in the world of fighting games. Its innovative team battle system, engaging storyline, and unique cast of characters offer a refreshing experience that continues to captivate players even today.

For those seeking an alternative to traditional one-on-one fighters, Rival Schools presents a compelling and enjoyable option.