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Story
Shin Nippon Pro Wrestling: Toukon Retsuden 3, released in 1998 for the PlayStation, is a wrestling simulation game that captures the essence of Japanese professional wrestling, known as puroresu. Unlike many Western wrestling games of its time, Toukon Retsuden 3 does not focus on an overarching storyline with cutscenes or scripted drama. Instead, it offers a more authentic wrestling experience by allowing players to engage in matches featuring real-life New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) stars. The game acts as a virtual showcase of the NJPW roster, emphasizing the wrestlers’ personalities and fighting styles.
The narrative element is embedded within the career mode, where players can progress through a series of matches to achieve championship titles. This progression mimics the career trajectory of a professional wrestler, offering a taste of the challenges and triumphs faced in the wrestling world. While it lacks a traditional story mode with scripted elements, the game provides a narrative through the progression of matches, building rivalries and alliances in a manner that feels organic and true to life.
Gameplay
Toukon Retsuden 3 is a wrestling game that prioritizes realism and authenticity over arcade-style action. The gameplay mechanics are designed to replicate the technical and strategic aspects of professional wrestling. Players can choose from a roster of over 30 NJPW wrestlers, each with unique move sets and fighting styles, reflecting their real-life counterparts.
Controls and Mechanics
The game’s control scheme is intuitive yet deep, allowing players to perform a wide array of wrestling maneuvers, from grapples and strikes to submissions and high-flying attacks. The control system is based on timing and positioning, requiring players to master the rhythm of matches and capitalize on their opponents’ weaknesses. This approach sets it apart from many wrestling games of its era, which often relied on button-mashing for success.
Match Types and Modes
Toukon Retsuden 3 offers several match types, including standard singles matches, tag team bouts, and multi-man contests. The game also features a robust career mode, where players can take their chosen wrestler through a series of matches to achieve championship glory. This mode adds depth and replayability, as players can experience different paths and outcomes based on their performance.
The game also includes a training mode, allowing players to practice and refine their skills. This feature is particularly useful for newcomers to the series, as it provides a comprehensive introduction to the game’s mechanics and strategies.
Graphics and Sound
For a game released in the late 1990s, Toukon Retsuden 3 offers impressive graphics that capture the look and feel of a live wrestling event. The character models are detailed and accurately represent the likenesses of the NJPW roster. The animation is smooth, with realistic movements that enhance the immersive experience. The game’s arenas are also well-designed, featuring dynamic crowds and atmospheric lighting that add to the excitement of the matches.
In terms of sound, the game delivers an authentic audio experience with realistic crowd reactions and impactful sound effects. The soundtrack features energetic themes that complement the action in the ring, while the commentary, although limited, adds an additional layer of authenticity to the presentation.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Shin Nippon Pro Wrestling: Toukon Retsuden 3 was praised for its realistic depiction of professional wrestling and its dedication to authenticity. The game’s focus on strategy and timing resonated with fans of the sport, setting it apart from other wrestling games that prioritized flashy moves over tactical gameplay.
Toukon Retsuden 3 holds a special place in the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate Japanese wrestling culture. It is often regarded as one of the best wrestling games of its time, thanks to its deep mechanics and faithful representation of the NJPW roster. The game’s impact is evident in its enduring popularity among fans and collectors, who continue to revisit it for its unique approach to the genre.
Despite being overshadowed by more mainstream wrestling titles in the West, Toukon Retsuden 3 has maintained a cult following, with players and critics alike acknowledging its influence on the evolution of wrestling games. Its emphasis on realism and strategy paved the way for future titles that sought to capture the intricacies of professional wrestling.
Conclusion
Shin Nippon Pro Wrestling: Toukon Retsuden 3 stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of Japanese professional wrestling. Its dedication to authenticity and strategic gameplay set it apart from its contemporaries, earning it a place in the pantheon of classic wrestling games. While it may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as other titles, its impact on the genre is undeniable, influencing future wrestling games that strive to balance realism with entertainment.
For fans of puroresu and wrestling enthusiasts looking for a game that captures the essence of the sport, Toukon Retsuden 3 remains a must-play. Its legacy continues to inspire developers and players alike, serving as a reminder of the art and spectacle that is professional wrestling.
