Zen Nihon Pro Wrestling Dash: Sekai Saikyou Tag (1993)
Zen Nihon Pro Wrestling Dash: Sekai Saikyou Tag (literally "All Japan Pro Wrestling Dash: World's Strongest Tag") is a professional wrestling simulation game developed by NCS (Nippon Computer Systems) and published by NCS for the Super Famicom, released on December 22, 1993. The game features officially licensed wrestlers from the All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) promotion, with a focus on tag team wrestling. The game includes a variety of tag teams and a deep simulation of tag team mechanics. NCS, known for their action and adventure games, brought their technical expertise to the wrestling genre, creating a game that was praised for its realism and depth.
Gameplay and Wrestling Mechanics
Zen Nihon Pro Wrestling Dash is a wrestling simulation game where players choose from a roster of AJPW wrestlers, each with unique stats, moves, and signature techniques. The game features a "grapple" system, where players must time button presses to execute moves, with a "struggle" mini-game to gain control. The game's standout feature is the "tag" system, where players can tag in their partner, perform double-team moves, and manage the tag team dynamics. The game also includes a "stamina" system, where wrestlers tire over time, affecting their performance.
The game includes multiple modes, including an exhibition match, a tournament mode (where players compete for a championship), a tag team mode, and a two-player mode for competitive multiplayer. The game's visual style is detailed and realistic, with large, expressive wrestler sprites and authentic ring environments. The soundtrack features high-energy rock and electronic tracks that match the intensity of the matches.
Zen Nihon Pro Wrestling Dash: Sekai Saikyou Tag received positive reviews for its realistic simulation and focus on tag team wrestling, becoming a popular title among wrestling fans in Japan. It remains a classic for its faithful portrayal of All Japan Pro Wrestling and NCS's characteristic approach to sports simulations.