STAY COOL, KOBAYASHI-SAN!: A RIVER CITY RANSOM STORY (2019)

**STAY COOL, KOBAYASHI-SAN!: A RIVER CITY RANSOM STORY (2019)** plunges players into the chaotic aftermath of a high school turf war, as they step into the shoes of Masao Kobayashi, the feared leader of Reiho High's "Big Four." This action-packed adventure, set shortly after the events of *Downtown Nekketsu Monogatari*, sees Kobayashi thrust into a time-bending conflict. A chance encounter with Mizoguchi, a Time Regulator, reveals Kobayashi's latent powers and a mission to dismantle an evil organization disrupting the fabric of time. When a friend is kidnapped by this shadowy group, Kobayashi must channel his inner fury, hidden beneath a cool exterior, to rescue his comrade and end their reign of terror. This title proudly boasts the involvement of original staff members, including Yoshihisa Kishimoto (director of *Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun*) and Mokeke Sekimoto (director of *Downtown Nekketsu Monogatari*), promising a truly authentic and reckless action game experience. Fans will delight in the "funny and nostalgic pixel art," a hallmark of the beloved Kunio-kun series, while the promise of "20 different endings" ensures immense replayability as players' in-game choices shape their narrative destiny. Furthermore, collecting "★" allows for character enhancements and item equipping, empowering players to become the ultimate force. Adding to the immersion, all characters are fully voiced, delivering "very talkative encounters" that bring the world to life. While Arc System Works is renowned for its fighting game prowess, *STAY COOL, KOBAYASHI-SAN!* showcases their ability to deliver engaging beat 'em up experiences, blending nostalgic charm with modern gameplay mechanics and a compelling narrative, thus solidifying its place among their best offerings.