Kaizen Game Works caught my eye with their 2020 release, Paradise Killer—a narrative delight that was as captivating to explore as it was intoxicating to read. Their latest venture, Promise Mascot Agency, initially seems worlds apart, but after diving into its fascinating universe for nearly twenty hours, it’s clear that first impressions can be deceiving. This studio definitely knows how to craft unique experiences, and Promise Mascot Agency is no exception. If you’re on the hunt for a game that’s both extraordinary and fun, this one’s a must-try.
In the game, you play as Michi, a yakuza known by his moniker, The Janitor. Having botched a mission and effectively been cast out by his mobster family, Michi finds himself in Kaso-Machi, a quaint town in Kyushu, Japan, supposedly cursed to bring harm to any male yakuza who steps foot there. His mission? To revitalize a struggling mascot agency as a means to chip away at his hefty debts. Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is a mascot agency? Imagine mascots as lively, diverse beings who need jobs to help drum up excitement for events. Michi, alongside his quirky assistant Pinky—a pinky finger-shaped mascot—must transform Promise Mascot Agency into Japan’s premier mascot service, all while uncovering the many eccentric tales of the Kaso-Machi residents.
Normally, this is the point where I’d compare the game to other familiar titles, but Promise Mascot Agency seems to stand alone. It’s a narrative adventure, sure, but with gameplay that challenges categorization. You’ll find yourself cruising around in a rickety truck, completing tasks to recruit mascots, enhance Kaso-Machi, and help mascots pursue their dreams. Your journey around town ensures constant engagement, as you boost, jump, and plunge your vehicle into the lake. The game revels in its absurdity, rendering its characters irresistibly relatable. Meet Trororo, a yam-engulfed mascot with a singular mission to champion Adult Video enjoyment, or Miss. Wambui, an English teacher whose love for her students and the countryside keeps her in this secluded town. The writing expertly complements the mascots’ creative designs, making each unforgettable. As the agency progresses, you’re tasked with selling mascot merchandise to boost funds, which will have you longing for your own To-Fu, Neko Roll, or Koke-Maru goods.
Sending mascots on assignments involves a bit of risk, as mishaps trigger a transition into mini-game card battles. Here, Kaso-Machi citizens step in as Support Heroes to tackle issues ranging from displaced boxes to malfunctioning vending machines. You’ll get sixty seconds to strategize and reduce the faulty item’s health pool, using cards with unique stats and actions. Initially tricky, you can enhance your Support Heroes by addressing their problems through quests or just chatting them up. Over time, the interconnected systems start to reveal themselves. Not only does your mascot agency flourish as you expand, but the town also transforms, deepening your bond with it. Despite a slightly dark visual style, the essence of the game is wonderfully wholesome. Roaming around, learning the town’s layouts, and diving into its hidden pockets becomes a genuine pleasure.
What makes Promise Mascot Agency special are these little touches. While most text isn’t voice-acted, all cutscenes and mascot introductions are fully voiced, bringing personalities vividly to life. There’s something brilliant about how Michi’s dialogue choices focus on intent rather than precise wording. Whether he’s being [supportive], [reassuring], or [direct], the interaction remains both engaging and authentic. It mirrors the feelings Paradise Killer once stirred in me, and that’s one of the highest praises I can give. Kaizen Game Works has truly outdone themselves, crafting an experience that’s possibly even more exciting than before. And, oh, the soundtrack! Alpha Crome Yayo’s mix of lo-fi, Japanese City Pop, and ’90s arcade vibes perfect the atmosphere with every beat.
Yet, there’s a downside, particularly for those on the Nintendo Switch. The game occasionally suffers from an unstable frame rate, asset rendering delays, and pop-ins during city exploration—frustrations that might taint your experience. If possible, consider playing on another platform to avoid these hiccups. Two software crashes also occurred during my time with it, most notably affecting the final act with minor bugs.
Moreover, while the game allows for a non-linear quest approach, I found that jumping into every side task early left the final chapters feeling somewhat rushed. Promise Mascot Agency doesn’t force you to pace your progress, but keep an eye on the main story and engage in the life satisfaction reviews for mascots as soon as they pop up. I blitzed through several in quick succession, and it may not be the best approach for everyone. Take your time, connect with Pinky, and engage with the interesting folks you meet on your journey.
Stepping into Promise Mascot Agency feels like diving into a classic from the PS2 or GameCube era—a true gem filled with heart. It’s refreshing to see a game that dares to break the mold in today’s risk-averse industry. Its confidence in delivering a unique world and story is tangible. While experiencing it, I felt the creators’ joy in every crafted detail. Promise Mascot Agency is unlike anything else. If you embrace its charm and pick an ideal platform, it’ll linger in your memory long after the credits roll.
