Edia is bringing a truly bizarre piece of gaming history to a new generation. The cult classic Super Famicom fighting game, Cho Aniki Bakuretsu Rantou Hen, is officially launching for the Nintendo Switch on June 19 in Japan. This marks the first time the unforgettable one-on-one fighter will be available on a modern console, giving new players a chance to experience its unique and surreal world.
A Cult Classic from the Super Famicom Era
Originally released in 1995, Cho Aniki Bakuretsu Rantou Hen was a spin-off of the equally strange shoot-’em-up series. It quickly gained a reputation for its over-the-top humor, muscle-bound characters, and outlandish special moves that were unlike anything else in the fighting game genre at the time.
While it later appeared on PC in 2014, this new Switch version from Edia is a significant milestone. It brings the game’s unique aesthetic to a global audience, thanks to the console’s region-free capabilities. The game’s style is defined by its sheer absurdity, setting it far apart from more serious competitors like Street Fighter.
This re-release preserves the core experience that made the original a favorite among import gamers and fans of unconventional titles. It’s a celebration of a game that was never afraid to be different.
What’s New in the Modern Switch Release?
To make the game more accessible for today’s players, Edia has included several quality-of-life improvements. These features aim to enhance the experience without changing the classic gameplay that fans remember. They are similar to the additions seen in the previously released Cho Aniki Collection.
The developer has focused on adding modern conveniences that both newcomers and veterans will appreciate.
- Rewind Feature: A very helpful tool that lets you undo mistakes on the fly, making it easier to learn the game’s tricky mechanics.
- Command List Display: An essential for any fighting game, this allows players to easily see the inputs for special moves during a match.
- Sound and Visual Modes: Fans can dive into the game’s art and listen to its memorable soundtrack whenever they want.
- Screen Filter: An option to enhance the retro graphics for a cleaner look on modern displays.
These new additions ensure that the game is not just a simple port but a thoughtfully updated version for the Nintendo Switch.
Physical and Digital Versions Available
Good news for game collectors! Cho Aniki Bakuretsu Rantou Hen will be available in both physical and digital formats in Japan. This is a welcome move, as many retro re-releases are often digital-only. Having a physical copy allows fans to own a tangible piece of this unique gaming franchise.
The game is priced at 4,290 yen, which is about $28 USD. This price is quite reasonable and falls in line with other classic game re-releases on the Switch eShop.
| Game Title | Platform | Japan Release Date | Price (Yen) | Formats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cho Aniki Bakuretsu Rantou Hen | Nintendo Switch | June 19 | 4,290 yen | Physical & Digital |
While an international release has not been announced, players outside of Japan can still import the physical version or purchase it from the Japanese eShop.
The Enduring Appeal of Cho Aniki
The Cho Aniki series has maintained its cult following for decades because it is proudly and unapologetically weird. Its humor and bizarre character designs create an experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a game that doesn’t take itself seriously and invites players to just have fun with its absurdity.
Edia has also released an announcement trailer that perfectly captures the game’s chaotic energy and showcases the new features. This Switch release is an exciting opportunity for a new wave of players to discover why this strange fighter has been beloved by a dedicated community for so long. It is a perfect addition for anyone who enjoys quirky Japanese games or wants to explore the wilder side of gaming history.
