Showa American Story: The First Hands-On Preview

Five years after its initial unveiling in 2021, Showa American Story continues to entertain with its peculiar blend of pop culture and action-RPG gameplay. Set in an alternate late-80s America purchased by Japan economically and culturally, the player controls Choko Chigusa—a resurrected girl on a bizarre road trip adventure. During our hands-on session, we explored four segments: linear combat, exploration, open-world navigation, and a formidable boss battle.

Combat mechanics draw from various action game staples, featuring both melee and ranged weapons. Choko wields an arsenal of melee weapons, including bare hands, gauntlets, katanas, drills, and polearms. Each weapon boasts unique names, such as the legendary Katana "Mikazuki Munechika," while offering distinct playstyles and attack patterns. For instance, the katana category includes four stances—High, Yin-Yang, Matsukaze, and Fudoshin (Immovable Mind)—each unlocking new combo potential.

The core of combat hinges on the Rage Cycle: dealing or taking damage fills the Rage meter, which then converts into Rage Points. Players strategically spend these points to unleash powerful Ultimates, Rage Attacks, and Chain Attacks. Chain Attacks enable rapid weapon swapping and high-damage follow-ups, while Perfect Dodge and Super Recovery provide tactical defensive options. Managing stamina is crucial, as light attacks consume it, but not running out of stamina is manageable, as it merely lowers defense.

Despite its unconventional tone, Showa American Story offers a genuinely funny and engaging experience. The game's absurdity, combined with its intricate combat system and deep character progression, creates a uniquely wacky adventure.