This Anime Soccer RPG Series Makes Its Long-Awaited Debut on Xbox

Level-5 Inc., known for crafting some of Japan’s favorite game series such as Professor Layton, Ni No Kuni, and Yo-Kai Watch, and its collaboration on Dragon Quest VIII and IX, has just made a thrilling revelation. For the first time ever, the Inazuma Eleven franchise will be making its debut on Xbox consoles with the launch of Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road.

This exciting news was unveiled during a special showcase event, where fans got a sneak peek into the gameplay, storyline, and an anticipated release date set for August 21, 2025.

Inazuma Eleven, for those unfamiliar, is a unique blend of soccer and RPG elements that has blossomed into a full-fledged multimedia phenomenon since its inception in 2008. It has expanded well beyond video games to include an array of manga, anime series, and films.

Unlike its more realistic soccer game counterparts like FIFA or EA Sports FC, Inazuma Eleven offers a wonderfully exaggerated and cartoonish spin on the sport. Characters exhibit what can only be described as superhuman abilities on the field, and Victory Road promises to deliver more of that beloved action.

In the game, players can dive into soccer matches through various modes—whether it’s the single-player Story Mode, Chronicle Modes, or the online-multiplayer Competition Mode. The Story Mode tells the journey of Destin Billows, a spirited high school student who dreams of leading his team to become Japan’s top soccer champions.

Throughout this mode, you’ll engage in mini-games and classmate interactions to determine who gets a spot on your evolving team. It’s set to deliver an emotional rollercoaster filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and gripping action sequences.

Another enticing feature is the Chronicle Mode, where players can experience iconic matches from the Inazuma Eleven history with help from time traveler Victorio. This mode allows players to take on special challenges and recruit from a vast roster of over 5,200 characters to build their dream team.

Victory Road introduces ‘Manual Mode’ and ‘Commander Modes,’ giving players the option to personally control a character or let AI manage the game while directing strategies and formations. Between matches, there’s the Bond Town mode, a space to craft a personal avatar and engage with other players online. Plus, there’s the fun option of teaming up for exclusive 2-player tag matches.

The arrival of Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road on Xbox marks yet another success for the platform in securing a beloved RPG franchise. Watching a promotional video revealing this game for the first time, it’s clear this is a wild ride of a game.

Though I’m not usually one for soccer games—wrestling titles like WWE 2K25 are more my scene—I can definitely see why Inazuma Eleven has stood the test of time. With its striking production quality and spectacular super moves, it’s an engaging spectacle. For fans of sports anime or soccer, note the date: August 21, 2025. Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road will launch across platforms including Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC on Steam.