Banpresto Games Collection
Founded in 1977 as a toy manufacturer, Banpresto evolved into one of Japan's most prolific game developers specializing in crossover titles and licensed adaptations. Now operating as part of Bandai Namco Entertainment, Banpresto is best known for its Super Robot Wars tactical RPG series and numerous anime-based games. The company has built a reputation for delivering fan-service-heavy experiences that faithfully recreate beloved franchises in interactive form.
Origins and Early Arcade Era
Originally established as Coreland, the company rebranded to Banpresto in 1982 and initially focused on arcade machines and prize figures. Their early gaming efforts included:- Arcade classics like Sky Kid (1985) and Dragon Spirit (1987)
- Licensed titles based on Ultraman and Kamen Rider
- Partnership with Namco for distribution networks
Super Robot Wars Revolution
The 1991 release of Super Robot Wars for Game Boy launched Banpresto's signature series:- Innovative crossover gameplay combining mecha from 20+ anime
- Tactical grid-based combat with flashy attack animations
- Branching storylines respecting each series' canon
- Over 90 installments across 30+ years
The series became a cultural phenomenon, credited with reviving interest in classic mecha anime.
Licensed Game Expertise
Banpresto became the go-to developer for anime/manga adaptations:- Dragon Ball Z fighting games (The Legacy of Goku series)
- One Piece RPGs and fighters
- Naruto and Bleach arena battlers
- Disney and Ghibli collaborations
Their games stood out for meticulous attention to source material details.
Modern Era and Legacy
After merging with Bandai Namco in 2008, Banpresto:- Continued Super Robot Wars with HD visuals and voice acting
- Expanded into mobile (Cross Omega, DD)
- Developed Summon Night and Another Century's Episode spinoffs
While no longer an independent label, Banpresto's influence persists through its unique approach to crossover storytelling and licensed game development.
Super Robot Wars 2
1991
Tactical RPGThe second installment in the crossover tactical RPG series featuring mecha from various anime franchises. Players command a squad of iconic robots in grid-based battles against the DC Army, with improved gameplay mechanics from the first game.
Ultraman
1991
Beat 'em upAn arcade beat 'em up based on the iconic Japanese superhero franchise. Players control Ultraman to battle giant monsters across various cityscapes using signature attacks like the Specium Ray.
Ultra X Weapons / Ultra Keibitai
1995
Run and GunUltra X Weapons (known as Ultra Keibitai in Japan) is a 1995 arcade run and gun shooter by Banpresto. Players control elite soldiers equipped with transforming weapons through 6 stages of intense alien invasion combat. Notable for its weapon morphing system and cooperative 2-player action.
Super Robot Wars A
2001
Tactical RPGThe first Super Robot Wars title for Game Boy Advance, featuring an original storyline with mecha from 16 different anime series. Introduces the new 'Battleship Command' system and improved sprite animations.
Super Robot Taisen D
2003
Tactical RPGThe fourth GBA installment featuring mecha from 16 different anime series, introducing the innovative 'Twin Battle System' for combination attacks.
Super Robot Wars J
2005
Tactical RPGA tactical RPG featuring crossover battles between iconic mecha anime series. Players command a customizable protagonist and their team through grid-based battles with flashy combat animations.
Super Robot Wars R
2002
Tactical RPGSuper Robot Wars R is a tactical RPG featuring mecha from various anime series. The game combines strategic grid-based battles with an original storyline that crosses over multiple mecha universes.
Super Robot Wars: Original Generation
2002
Tactical RPGSuper Robot Wars: Original Generation is a 2002 tactical RPG featuring original mecha designs instead of licensed anime robots. Players command squads of pilots like Ryusei Date and Kyosuke Nanbu in grid-based battles with combo attacks and customizable weapon systems.
Super Robot Wars: Original Generation 2
2005
Tactical RPGThe sequel featuring Banpresto's original mecha characters in an exclusive storyline. Continues the conflict between Earth forces and alien invaders with enhanced combat systems and new protagonist units.
The 3rd Super Robot Wars
1993
Tactical RPGThe third installment in the legendary Super Robot Wars series, featuring crossover battles between famous mecha anime series. This SNES version introduces improved graphics and new gameplay systems compared to its Famicom predecessors.
The 4th Super Robot Wars
1995
Tactical RPGThe fourth installment in the Super Robot Wars series, expanding the crossover battles with more mecha anime series and refined gameplay mechanics. This SNES sequel introduces new systems like the 'Twin Battle' combo attacks between allied units.
Super Robot Taisen EX
1994
Tactical RPGA unique chapter in the Super Robot Wars series, EX features a three-part storyline focusing on the Masou Kishin sub-series. This SNES installment introduces branching narrative paths and deeper character development.
Super Robot Taisen Compact
1999
Tactical RPGThe first Super Robot Wars title for Bandai's WonderSwan handheld, condensing the signature tactical RPG gameplay into a portable format. Features 25 playable units from 12 different mecha anime series.
Super Robot Taisen Compact 2
2000
Tactical RPGThe second Super Robot Wars installment for Bandai's WonderSwan handheld, featuring tactical battles with mecha from multiple anime series. Players command squads of iconic robots in grid-based strategic combat.
Super Robot Taisen Compact 3
2001
Tactical RPGThe final WonderSwan installment in the SRW series, featuring 22 mecha anime series including Gundam Wing, Mazinger Z, and Evangelion. Strategic turn-based battles with upgradeable units across 50+ stages.