Unleashing the Epic: Why JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Demands an Outstanding Video Game Adaptation

Highlights

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure has had many video game adaptations, but one from the early 2000s stands out for its unique action-adventure style.

Although most adaptations of JoJo have predominantly been fighting games, GioGio's Bizarre Adventure for the PS2 introduced a refreshing change with its cinematic narrative and challenging boss battles. While its impact was limited due to its exclusive release in Japan, considering the current surge in popularity of JoJo, the franchise could greatly benefit from a new action-adventure game.

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure has risen to prominence in the anime and manga world in the West, leading to numerous video game releases. While most of these games have been in the fighting game genre, one standout from the early 2000s takes a different approach with its action-adventure style.

Over the years, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure has been the subject of various game adaptations from different studios. However, this particular game sets itself apart by offering a unique action-adventure experience not seen in the franchise since.

Traditionally, JoJo games have been known for their fighting game mechanics. Ever since Capcom's release of Heritage for the Future in the 90s, fans have enjoyed fighting games that fully showcase the distinctive characters and abilities of the series. But now, with the upcoming DLC for All Star Battle R, it's clear that the franchise is evolving beyond mere remasters. Fans have long been waiting for a similar treatment to be given to Heritage, showcasing its unique elements. Nevertheless, the PS2 adaptation of Golden Wind demonstrates that JoJo games can succeed in other genres as well, proving that fighting games aren't the only way to experience the world of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.

GioGio's Bizarre Adventure

GioGio’s Bizarre Adventure, a lesser-known game among fans, offered a unique twist to the series when it was released in 2002 for PS2. Departing from the conventional fighting game format, it provided an action-adventure experience with a cinematic storyline that closely followed the events of Golden Wind. The game faithfully adapted the source material, showcasing epic JoJo Stand battles and capturing the essence of the original manga's action.

Unfortunately, due to its exclusivity to Japan, GioGio's Bizarre Adventure had limited influence. In 2006, a similarly faithful Phantom Blood adaptation in the beat-em-up genre was released, but its weak gameplay held it back from reaching its full potential. Only the most dedicated Western fans have taken the initiative to experience these games through unofficial English patches. As the popularity of JoJo continues to soar, a new release in this style could be just the boost the franchise needs.

The Potential of a New Action-Adventure JoJo Game

Bringing the story of Golden Wind into a game alone was enough to impress fans, and this same formula could benefit any other era of JoJo. A remake of GioGio’s or a retreading of Phantom Blood both have the potential to pay homage to the past. Each part has its merits, but Stardust Crusaders would generate the most excitement by allowing players to embody Jotaro Kujo outside of a fighting game, a unique opportunity. With a multitude of Stand fights that go beyond the typical boss rush and the iconic villain Dio, Part 3 of JoJo is just a glimpse of what an entire series of games could be.

While the idea of a new JoJo title may thrill fans, it may realistically take some time before it materializes. The controversy surrounding the Stone Ocean anime due to Netflix's involvement has raised concerns for the future animation of Part 7, but the gaming world holds more hope. All Star Battle R is continuously adding new characters, a level of post-release support previously unseen in the franchise. As Part 9 continues publication and players continue to enjoy ASBR, fans can only hope that a game like GioGio’s Bizarre Adventure will come along again in the future.