The renowned Idol Master franchise, a staple of Japanese pop culture, is expanding with School Idol Master – an all-new simulation game set to release in Japan in Spring 2024. This latest installment departs from the established glitz and glamour of the main series, immersing players in the heart of idol training: the prestigious Hatsei Academy.
What is the Idol Master?
For newcomers, the Idol Master (sometimes stylized as THE iDOLM@STER) is a beloved media franchise focused on raising pop stars from the ground up. Originating as an arcade rhythm game, the series has grown into a cultural force, spanning multiple mainline titles, mobile games, anime, manga, and live concerts.
Your Role as a Producer
In School Idol Master, you take on the vital role of a talent producer. Your mission is to scout Hatsei Academy for promising recruits and transform them into superstar idols. This involves more than just a good eye for potential; as a producer, you become a mentor, choreographer, and manager all rolled into one.
Gameplay: Crafting Your Perfect Idol
The core gameplay loop revolves around crafting well-rounded idols. With meticulous planning, you’ll put your trainees through rigorous vocal lessons, intricate dance rehearsals, and even fitness sessions to enhance their stage presence. Outside of scheduled training, you can take your idols out for street performances to hone their ability to captivate a crowd. Remember, a true idol shines because of the hard work put in behind the scenes.
Stunning Visuals and a Cast of Rising Stars
School Idol Master leverages the power of Unreal Engine 4 to render a vibrant academy setting and a cast of captivating characters. Expect to encounter girls with diverse backgrounds, personalities, and dreams – all aspiring to make their mark on the entertainment world.
The three initial idols revealed by Bandai Namco offer a glimpse of the range you’ll encounter:
- Chihaya Kisaragi: A determined former athlete driven by an unbreakable spirit.
- Miki Hoshii: A seasoned performer, having found success in a middle-school idol group.
- Yayoi Takatsuki: A girl fueled by a practical ambition to use idol fame for financial gain.
Anticipation Builds for the Spring Launch
While a concrete release date is yet to be announced, School Idol Master has sent a wave of excitement through the franchise’s fanbase. If you’re drawn to the world of idol stardom or enjoy in-depth simulation games, this could be the perfect experience to immerse yourself into a world of hard work, dazzling performances, and fulfilling the dreams of aspiring young stars.
See more games in the Game Recommendation section here.
