David Douillet Judo

If you are a fan of sports and extreme sports games, then you’ll likely have played a representation of just about every sport going. The most popular sports such as Soccer, Football, Basketball and the UFC seem to all get annual releases as standard. However, for those interested in slightly more non-conventional sports, its always a blessing if a developer ever takes the time to bring your sport to the digital plane at all. So with David Joulliet Judo, it was the turn of those invested in the world this particular martial art to have their sport in the spotlight.

This game is one of the only Judo games ever produced, so for that reason it is rather unique. However, it can be compared to other sports and fighting games such as UFC 3, International Karate, WWE 2K20 and Fight Night Champion to name a few. This title aimed to give casual players and Judo enthusiasts alike a way to see all that the sport has to offer. However, did the game stand it’s ground, or simply roll over? We find out in our review of David Joulliet Judo.

Flipping Realistic

When some developers are handed a project where they have to bring a lesser known property or sport to live. It isn’t a secret that some of these teams can see this as a paycheck and the passion for the project simply isn’t there. Well, in this title, this is definitely not the case. The developers have left no stone unturned and every last detail has been refined and polished to give even the most avid Judo enthusiasts the best experience possible.

You’ll have access to licensed events, you’ll be able to play as some of the finest athletes associated within the sport of Judo in 2006. Plus, you’ll be able to utilise over 50 throws, grabs and shanks to floor your opponent and win every bout youre involved in. Plus, the game has a brilliant physics system that accounts for balance, power and speed when carrying out every move.

Accessible for The Casual Player

Much like Skater XL is made with skaters in mind but can appeal to casual players, this game is exactly the same. The game offers a range of tutorials and lessons regarding the throws, grabs, rules and the culture of Judo. Allowing outsiders to become accustomed to the sport and we dare even say that when casual players try out this game, they may learn something that they could take onto the mat if they chose to try judo out in reality. Its that attentive to the finer details.

The Verdict

Overall, David Joulliet Judo is an excellent game for its time and allows the sport of Judo to shine. The gameplay is realistic and fun. The difficulty is challenging but fair and there is an abundance of tutorials to help players learn the sport and the controls.

Pros:

• Fully licensed events and real life Judo athletes included
• Realistic movement, physics and grabs/throws
• Graphics haven’t aged well
• It’s a niche topic and won’t interest everyone

Cons:

• Graphics haven’t aged well
• It’s a niche topic and won’t interest everyone