The arrival of Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact on the Nintendo Switch marks a noteworthy attempt to blend beloved anime lore with traditional fighting game mechanics. While the premise may appear straightforward—a 3v3 tag-team brawler based on Yoshihiro Togashi’s iconic manga—it demands a closer look to evaluate whether it steps beyond mere fanservice or whether it genuinely elevates the fighting game landscape. The developers, Bushiroad Games and Eighting, bring considerable pedigree to the table, especially considering Eighting’s history of crafting memorable fighters such as Naruto: Clash of the Ninja. Yet, the question lingers: does this game capitalize on its source material and gameplay mechanics to be more than a commercial curiosity?
Gameplay Mechanics and Design Philosophy
At its core, Nen x Impact adopts a three-versus-three team structure, emphasizing swift tag transitions, cooperation, and strategic switching. The mechanic aims to simulate the camaraderie and tactical depth of the anime’s battles, with players calling in allies for assist attacks or to change fighters mid-fight—an approach that resonates with the genre’s best offerings like Marvel vs. Capcom. Despite the simplicity of its 2D visual style, the game’s mechanics seem to root themselves in a solid foundation established by Eighting’s historical prototypes. The combat feels tactile enough to keep players engaged, though it arguably lacks the polish seen in more prominent fighting titles.
From a design standpoint, Hunter x Hunter’s universe offers a compelling canvas for creative attacks and character abilities—something the game attempts to incorporate. However, the visual presentation is modest at best, with some detractors pointing out the graphical austerity and a lack of visual flair. Nonetheless, fighting game aficionados value mechanics highly; if enemy encounters prioritize depth, timing, and tactical nuance over eye candy alone, Nen x Impact could prove its worth.
Nostalgia, Commercial Strategy, and Collectibility
Beyond gameplay, Hunter x Hunter’s entry signifies a strategic move to tap into the fanbase of a long-running, beloved manga and anime series. Its delayed release, primarily to incorporate rollback netcode—an essential feature for competitive play—reflects a commitment to quality, even if it came after initial expectations. The inclusion of a physical edition packed with bonus items signals an understanding of collector culture, aimed at die-hard fans willing to invest in exclusive merchandise like artbooks and alternate costumes.
However, the game’s commercial packaging feels somewhat conservative, especially considering the potential richness of the Hunter x Hunter universe. Its pricing—around £49.99 for the standard digital edition and almost double for the limited physical package—puts it in a competitive but cautious position among fighters with more elaborate presentations. In this context, the game’s success hinges on whether it can deliver satisfying combat that compensates for its artistic shortcomings and whether fans see it as a worthwhile tribute or a casual curiosity.
Potential Pitfalls and the Road Ahead
Despite its promising aspects, Nen x Impact faces hurdles that could impede broader acclaim. The game’s minimalist visual style may deter players seeking a visually stunning experience, especially on a platform like the Switch, which hosts several visually engaging titles. Moreover, its fidelity to the anime’s lore could be a double-edged sword; fans expect authenticity, yet the need to balance that with tight gameplay mechanics is a delicate task.
Furthermore, the game’s reputation took a hit when it was delayed explicitly to improve online connectivity, which underscores a potential initial lack of polish. The ban in Australia due to content deemed inappropriate further complicates its market reach—highlighting cultural sensitivities that developers must navigate carefully.
Considering these factors, Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact will likely appeal most to hardcore fans and fighting game enthusiasts eager for a niche experience rooted in a beloved series. Its true test will be whether its gameplay mechanics are sufficiently engaging and whether it can carve out a distinct identity amid the crowded fighting genre. As it stands, the game teeters on the brink of mediocrity or mastery—only time and player feedback will reveal which side it lands on.
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