Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon S: Jougai Rantou!? Shuyaku Soudatsusen

Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon S: Jougai Rantou!? Shuyaku Soudatsusen

Introduction

In the mid-1990s, the "Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon" franchise was a global phenomenon, dominating both the airwaves and the toy aisles. Naturally, this popularity translated into the world of video games, leading to the release of several titles across various genres. Among the most beloved by fans and fighting game enthusiasts alike is Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon S: Jougai Rantou!? Shuyaku Soudatsusen. Also known by the English translation Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon S: Brawl?! Champion Battle, this 2D fighting game brought the iconic Sailor Senshi together for a high-stakes tournament that remains a cult classic today. Combining vibrant anime aesthetics with surprisingly deep mechanics, it stands as a testament to the versatility of the magical girl genre in interactive media.

Story & Setting

The narrative of the game takes a lighthearted yet competitive turn compared to the darker themes often found in the "S" season of the anime. After successfully defeating a powerful enemy, the Sailor Senshi are relaxing when tensions begin to rise. Sailor Chibi Moon and Sailor Mars begin teasing Sailor Moon, labeling her as undependable and unfit to lead the group in her current state.

Rather than letting the insult slide, the rest of the Sailor Senshi decide that the best way to settle the dispute is through a formal contest. The goal is to determine who truly deserves to be the leader of the team. This premise sets the stage for a grand tournament where friends must face off against one another to prove their strength, skill, and leadership qualities. The setting spans various iconic locations from the series, providing a nostalgic backdrop for the internal rivalry.

Gameplay

At its core, Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon S: Jougai Rantou!? Shuyaku Soudatsusen is a traditional 2D fighting game. Players can choose from a roster that includes the Inner Senshi (Moon, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus) as well as the Outer Senshi (Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto), along with Chibi Moon. Each character boasts a unique move set based on their elemental powers from the source material. For example, Sailor Mars utilizes fire-based projectiles and close-range strikes, while Sailor Mercury focuses on tactical ice and water maneuvers.

One of the most innovative features for its time was the ability to customize character stats. Before a match, players are given a set number of points to distribute between Power, Defense, and Speed, allowing for a personalized playstyle. The game also features a "Desperation" mechanic; when a character's health drops below a certain threshold, they gain access to a powerful super move that can turn the tide of the battle. This adds a layer of strategy and tension to every round.

Platforms

This game was released as a console exclusive during the peak of the 16-bit era, primarily targeting the Japanese audience where the franchise originated.

Legacy

Despite never receiving an official Western release under its translated title, Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon S: Brawl?! Champion Battle, the game found a second life through the import market and the fighting game community. It is frequently cited as one of the best Sailor Moon games ever made due to its fluid animation and balanced (albeit chaotic) gameplay. Within the competitive fighting game scene, it has occasionally appeared at side tournaments in major events like EVO, where players appreciate its unique stat-customization system and the charm of its 16-bit sprite art. It remains a shining example of how a licensed property can be handled with care and mechanical depth.

Fun Facts

  • The game allows players to play as the same character in Versus mode by using a secret input, which was a common feature in fighters of that era.
  • If you manage to beat the game on the hardest difficulty setting, you are rewarded with a special ending sequence that differs from the standard completion screen.
  • The stat customization system was quite advanced for a licensed title, predating similar RPG-lite mechanics in modern fighters like Dragon Ball FighterZ or Injustice.
  • The character voices were provided by the original Japanese voice cast from the anime, adding a high level of authenticity to the experience.

Found 0 item(s) for sale

  • No items currently for sale.