Japan’s “Kusoge” Titles: Their Most Unreasonable Moments and Hidden Charms

Games are a form of entertainment meant to bring joy. However, there are some games that are just too “unreasonable.” In this article, we delve into several games labeled as “Kusoge” (a term used in Japan to describe bad or crappy games) to highlight their most unreasonable aspects and the unexpected allure they possess.

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1. Takeshi’s Challenge

  • Release Date: 1986
  • Platform: Family Computer (Famicom)
  • Most Unreasonable Aspect: Players are immediately asked to submit divorce papers at the beginning of the game. Additionally, they are required to sing a song for a continuous three hours to progress.
  • Charm: Filled with Beat Takeshi’s unique humor and satire throughout the game.
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2. Hoshi no Miru Hito

  • Release Date: 1987
  • Platform: Family Computer (Famicom)
  • Most Unreasonable Aspect: The game has bugs that can suddenly make progress impossible, and overpowering enemies appear out of nowhere.
  • Charm: A unique cyberpunk-themed world and storyline.
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3. Akihabara Dennou Gumi

  • Release Date: 1998
  • Platform: PlayStation
  • Most Unreasonable Aspect: Even simple actions require complex controls.
  • Charm: Elements tied to the anime and intricate relationships between characters.

4. Macross: Do You Remember Love?

  • Release Date: 1997
  • Platform: Sega Saturn
  • Most Unreasonable Aspect: The game content differs from the storyline fans of the movie expect.
  • Charm: Players can experience characters and mechanics from the Macross series in-game.

5. Things I Want to Do Before I Die

  • Release Date: 1995
  • Platform: PlayStation
  • Most Unreasonable Aspect: Despite the provocative title, the game content is that of a standard RPG.
  • Charm: Contrary to the provocative title, it offers stable gameplay as an RPG.

Conclusion

Although these games are often labeled as “Kusoge,” each possesses its own unique charm and backstory. The very “unreasonableness” might ironically be the factor that draws certain players in. Games are not just simple entertainment; they are pieces filled with background and philosophy. They might just be worth a try.