Nuga-Cel! (2009)

Developer: Idea Factory Co., Ltd.
Platforms: PlayStation 2
Genres: Role-playing (RPG)

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The catalog in 3D

The same catalog has a room you can walk around in. The cat behind the counter is the AI Catbot, and they pick real games from it when you tell them what you feel like playing. Nothing is for sale, here or in there. Go in from here and this game is already out on the counter, with more like it waiting on the shelf next to it.

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How it feels

Playing it feels like casually managing a quirky team of costumed fighters through light, low-stakes daily strategy and battles set in a fantastical Tokyo.

light-heartedwhimsicalfantasycollection-focusedmanagement-heavyquirkymodest pacingniche

About

An Idea Factory published late generation PlayStation 2 role playing game which was only ever released in Japan. NUGA-CEL! is a light-hearted simulation RPG set in a fantasy version of modern-day Tokyo. The player, as the unseen Master, must assemble a team of female fighters, dress them up in super-powered cosplay outfits, and lead them into battle to unify all of Tokyo-23. The game is divided into days, during which the player can manage their territories and team members, shop for and create new outfits, and either enter a dungeon or attack a neighboring territories. The available territories are often dictated by the story progression, and there are also various scenarios centering on the different characters in the player's team. The defining aspect of the game is its cosplay system. In-game battles are turn-based, up to 3-vs-3. Each character can be assigned an outfit, which each give them different skills and abilities, not to mention appearance. However, as characters take damage, so do their clothes, which will eventually be destroyed leaving them vulnerable. It is necessary to switch and repair outfits to keep characters in fighting shape. Outside of battle, the player can purchase items and outfits at shops, and there is also an extensive crafting system where new outfits and items can be produced.

Screenshots

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