Rival Schools: United by Fate! An Unexpected 3D Fighter With Heart and Humor

Rival Schools: United by Fate!, launched in 1997 for arcade platforms and later ported to consoles like the PlayStation and Sega Saturn, stands as a unique entry within the often-serious fighting game genre. Developed by Capcom, known for iconic franchises such as Street Fighter and Mega Man, Rival Schools takes a decidedly different approach, weaving a compelling narrative into its fast-paced combat system. Forget stoic warriors and grim storylines; here we have high school rivalries, quirky personalities, and over-the-top special moves that defy the laws of physics (and perhaps common sense!).

The game’s plot revolves around a series of mysterious incidents plaguing several prestigious Japanese high schools. The protagonists, students from Taiyo High School led by the determined Batsu Ichimonji and the fiery Hinata Wakaba, find themselves caught in a web of intrigue involving kidnappings, hidden agendas, and a shadowy organization known as “The Syndicate.”

But Rival Schools is more than just a typical story mode. The game ingeniously blends traditional fighting gameplay with RPG elements. Players can choose from a diverse roster of characters, each representing different cliques and personalities within the high school setting: the athletic team, the studious bookworms, the rebellious delinquents, and even the enigmatic occult club.

• Character Customization: Before diving into battles, players can customize their chosen fighters by allocating stat points to strength, speed, and special attack power. This adds a layer of strategic depth, allowing players to tailor their characters to their preferred playstyle.
• Tag Team Action: Rival Schools embraces the classic tag-team mechanic seen in games like Marvel vs. Capcom. Players can form two-person teams and switch between fighters during matches for extended combos and tactical maneuvering.

The Art of the “Pair” Strike: Unique Mechanics Define Rivals Schools

While sharing similarities with other 3D fighters, Rival Schools distinguishes itself with several innovative mechanics that enhance its gameplay experience:

• Partner Attacks: The heart and soul of Rival Schools’ combat lie in its “Pair Strikes.” These synchronized attacks are executed when both team members are within close proximity. Pulling off a successful Pair Strike involves precise timing and knowledge of your partner’s move set, leading to devastating combos that can turn the tide of battle.

• Knockout System: Unlike traditional fighting games where a single character’s health bar depletes entirely, Rival Schools utilizes a “knockout” system. Each fighter has a set number of “hits” they can endure before being temporarily knocked out of the match.
• Environmental Interactions: Stages in Rival Schools feature interactive elements that add another layer of strategy to battles. For instance, players can throw opponents into walls for additional damage or use objects like barrels and crates as improvised weapons.

Beyond the Brawls: Exploring the World of Rival Schools

Rival Schools isn’t simply about relentless fighting; it also delves into character development and world-building through its story mode. Between battles, players encounter cutscenes that reveal the personalities and motivations behind each high school student, adding depth and intrigue to the overall narrative.

The game’s distinct visual style, a blend of cel-shaded 3D models and hand-drawn backgrounds, further enhances its charm. The soundtrack is equally memorable, featuring upbeat J-pop tracks that perfectly capture the energetic spirit of the game.

Rival Schools: A Legacy Worth Rediscovering

While Rival Schools might not have achieved the mainstream popularity of some other fighting games, it remains a cult classic for those who appreciate its unique blend of combat, story, and quirky charm. For players seeking something different in the world of fighters, Rival Schools: United by Fate! offers an experience that’s both refreshing and undeniably fun.

With its innovative mechanics, engaging storyline, and memorable cast of characters, Rival Schools proves that sometimes the best brawls are the ones that take place on the high school battlefield.