Promise Mascot Agency Review (PS5) – An Honest Living

“Promise Mascot Agency” is one of the most anticipated games of 2025, set to launch on April 10. Developed by Kaizen Game Works, this open-world game blends quirky mascot management with elements of crime drama. Players take on the role of Michi, a former Yakuza lieutenant, who is now tasked with running a bankrupt mascot agency in the small, cursed town of Kaso-Machi. The game will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Early demos have already shown impressive gameplay, offering a unique combination of managing eccentric mascots and uncovering the mysteries of a mysterious town.

Game Overview

Genre and Setting

“Promise Mascot Agency” is an open-world game that combines elements of management simulation with a gripping crime drama. The story takes place in Kaso-Machi, a cursed town filled with secrets, hidden stories, and colorful characters. What sets the game apart is its unusual focus on mascots—living, breathing characters with unique personalities who are central to the plot. While much of the town is filled with quirky moments, there’s also a darker undercurrent, with Michi’s troubled past as a former Yakuza lieutenant being woven throughout the narrative.

Protagonist: Michi

The game’s protagonist, Michi, is a former Yakuza lieutenant who finds himself exiled from his old life. As a way to make a living, he ends up running a small mascot agency in the eerie town of Kaso-Machi. His journey is one of redemption, as he works to rebuild his life and manage a business full of unusual characters. Michi’s character arc is deeply personal, and his past adds emotional weight to the overall story.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

Mascot Recruitment and Management

A major part of “Promise Mascot Agency” is recruiting and managing mascots. These mascots are not just animated figures—they are living characters, each with their own personalities, goals, and quirks. Players need to form connections with these mascots and assign them to various jobs within the town. Each mascot has its strengths and weaknesses, and part of the game involves managing these traits to make the business successful.

The use of “Hero Cards” further enriches gameplay. These cards allow players to help mascots overcome challenges or improve their job performance. By strategically using these cards, you can maximize your mascots’ potential and ensure the agency’s success.

Job Assignments and Missions

Assigning tasks to mascots is central to the game’s management aspect. You’ll need to assign them to various jobs across Kaso-Machi, ranging from simple tasks to more complex assignments. The job assignments come with challenges, and sometimes the mascots will need your help to overcome obstacles. The use of Hero Cards adds a strategic element to job management, making each task feel unique and rewarding.

Exploration and Vehicle Customization

The game also features an exploration element. Players can drive around the town of Kaso-Machi in a customizable truck. As you explore, you’ll encounter hidden secrets and new opportunities. The truck itself can be upgraded, with options to enhance its speed, add wings for aerial navigation, and more. This adds a fun, interactive component to the game, letting players customize their experience as they traverse the eerie town.

Characters and Voice Cast

Lead and Supporting Voice Talent

The voice cast for “Promise Mascot Agency” includes several well-known actors from the gaming industry, adding depth and authenticity to the characters. Takaya Kuroda, best known for voicing Kazuma Kiryu in the Yakuza series, lends his voice to Michi. Ayano Shibuya, who voiced characters in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, plays Pinky, one of the key mascots. Other notable voices include Eri Saito as Matriarch Shimazu and Shuhei Yoshida as MonouGe. Even Swery (Hidetaka Suehiro), the famous game designer, takes a role in voicing Kannushi-kun, one of the characters in the game.

Character Development

The game puts a heavy emphasis on character development, not just for Michi, but also for the mascots. Each mascot has its own backstory and set of goals, making interactions more meaningful. Players can form strong connections with these characters, and their growth is tied to the agency’s success.

Visual Style and Design

“Promise Mascot Agency” features a unique visual style that blends quirky mascot designs with gritty, urban aesthetics. The art direction mixes bright, cheerful characters with a darker, more atmospheric backdrop, creating a striking contrast that enhances the overall tone of the game. The character designs are colorful and whimsical, while the environments maintain a more grounded, realistic look, which highlights the strange, cursed nature of Kaso-Machi.

Animation Quality and Character Design

The animation in the game is smooth and fluid, helping to bring the mascots to life. Their movements and expressions are designed to match their personalities, making the game feel immersive and interactive. The character design is one of the game’s standout features, combining detailed textures with stylized, exaggerated features that make each mascot memorable.

Demo Preview

Platforms and Availability

Before the full game release, players can experience an 80-minute demo available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and the Epic Games Store. This demo gives players a taste of the game’s mechanics, such as mascot recruitment, job assignments, and exploration. It’s an excellent way for potential players to get a feel for the game before its full release in April 2025.

First Impressions

The demo has already generated positive feedback from early players. Many have praised the creative gameplay mechanics, unique mascot designs, and the intriguing narrative. The quirky yet emotional tone has also been a highlight, offering players a truly unique gaming experience.

Final Thoughts

“Promise Mascot Agency” offers a fresh and unique take on the open-world genre. The blend of mascot management with a crime drama narrative sets it apart from other games on the market. With deep character development, an intriguing storyline, and a visually stunning world, the game is shaping up to be a standout hit in 2025. If you’re a fan of narrative-driven games or management simulations, this is one game you won’t want to miss.

FAQS:

What platforms can I play Promise Mascot Agency on?

You can play “Promise Mascot Agency” on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam, Epic Games Store).

Who is the main character of the game?

The main character is Michi, a former Yakuza lieutenant who is tasked with managing a mascot agency in the cursed town of Kaso-Machi.

Is there a free demo available?

Yes, there is a free demo available that lasts about 80 minutes. It is available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and Epic Games Store.

Can I customize my vehicle in the game?

Yes, you can customize your truck in the game. It can be upgraded with various features, including a speed boost and wings to glide through the air.

Who are some of the voice actors in Promise Mascot Agency?

Notable voice actors include Takaya Kuroda (Kazuma Kiryu from Yakuza), Ayano Shibuya (Zelda: TOTK), and Shuhei Yoshida (former PlayStation exec), among others.