2025 and 2026 Will Be a One-Two Punch For a Classic Nintendo DS Franchise

2025 and 2026 Will Be a One-Two Punch For a Classic Nintendo DS Franchise

As a seasoned gamer who’s been through the gaming revolution from the 8-bit era to the current generation, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia when I hear about the return of beloved franchises like Inazuma Eleven. Having grown up with the Nintendo DS and playing countless hours of its games, I remember the excitement that came with each new release in the Inazuma Eleven series.


The handheld device known as the Nintendo DS has been a host for many remarkable games that have largely faded into obscurity over time. While there are indeed methods to play Nintendo DS games on devices other than the original hardware, most of its exclusive titles either urgently need a contemporary upgrade or are confined to systems that are growing increasingly rare and hard to obtain.

In this scenario, reissues, updates, and adaptations – often known as remakes, remasters, and ports – play a crucial role. These can breathe new life into older games, making them more accessible to a wider audience. For instance, popular Nintendo DS games such as Pokemon Shining Pearl and Pokemon Brilliant Diamond serve as prime examples of high-profile remakes. Even less mainstream titles like The World Ends with You and Ace Attorney Trilogy have found their way onto modern devices. This pattern is set to continue in 2025 and 2026, when the sports RPG franchise Inazuma Eleven, which gained a devoted following over the past decade, will make a comeback. First introduced in Japan in 2008 and later in the West in 2014, this beloved series has spawned numerous spin-offs, manga adaptations, TV shows, and films. After years of popularity, it’s set to return with renewed vigor, aiming to catapult itself further into mainstream success.

Inazuma Eleven Is Coming Back With Two Games in 2025 and 2026

Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road Launches Next Year

Level-5, a renowned Japanese developer, has revealed that Inazuma Eleven will make its comeback, starting with Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road in 2025. Similar to its earlier versions, Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road is expected to focus on the arcade soccer gameplay, drawing inspiration from games like Super Mario Strikers while preserving its distinct gaming mechanics.

In terms of a fresh chapter, Victory Road marks the first addition to the Inazuma Eleven saga since Inazuma Eleven 3 back in 2010. Keeping with the series’ tradition, it offers fast-paced gameplay blended with role-playing elements. Much like classic games such as Backyard Baseball, Victory Road preserves a cartoonish visual style and emphasizes enjoyable gameplay over realism, making it an appealing alternative for those who might find modern AAA sports titles like NBA 2K or EA Sports FC too intense. The game offers a captivating single-player storyline, customization options for characters, and open areas to explore between matches. Additionally, players can expect some city-building aspects, which seem quite intriguing.

Previously, the game Inazuma Eleven was primarily linked to the Nintendo DS console. However, the latest installment, Victory Road, is set to be available on all gaming platforms.

A Remake of the First Inazuma Eleven Is Slated for a 2026 Release

Over the past few years, there has been a surge in remakes of games using newer technology, and it looks like Level-5 is jumping on this trend with the release of Inazuma Eleven RE. This revamped version of the 2008 original game boasts improved visuals and performance. However, there is less information available about Inazuma Eleven RE than about Victory Road, but it appears to be a significant remake, as it aims to bring the first game into 3D with entirely new character models and environments. Its graphical style resembles that of the Link’s Awakening Switch remake, and its gameplay mechanics are also being overhauled, without the inclusion of the Nintendo DS stylus features.

A fresh installment in the series and a modern update of the initial game hint at a grand comeback for Inazuma Eleven. Over time, the franchise has expanded to encompass various media forms beyond just gaming, but re-entering the limelight could generate even greater interest and popularity.

In today’s market, popular gaming brands are like gold, as developers strive to build credibility and identity with their latest creations. So, it’s not surprising that Level-5 is reviving the beloved series, Inazuma Eleven. If these upcoming games succeed, we might see more Inazuma Eleven titles in the future, which would be a win for everyone. Additionally, there’s a chance that this could spark a resurgence of arcade-style sports games, challenging the simulation-heavy focus prevalent in contemporary AAA releases within the genre.

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2024-09-30 16:33