TM Network: Live in Power Bowl

Did You Know?

• The hero is a nameless boy who travels back in time from 1999 with an Extreme Performance Computer called "MUE."
• Characters include Murata, the band's manager; Mark, son of Mr. Guzausuki, a developer of the "Colosseum" satellite; and Mitsuko, a journalist covering the peace concert.
• The game includes a maze using 3D computer graphics, though not related to the BBC Micro and Acorn Electron game 3D Maze.

Story

The story begins on New Year's Eve 1999 with the player lounging in his room. After turning on his computer, he learns that the strategic defense satellite "Colosseum" has detected nuclear weapons being fired rapidly between two forces, presumably the Americans and the Russians. World War III erupts, catastrophically damaging major cities including Paris, New York City, and Washington, D.C. A nuclear blast sends the player back to December 22, 1989, two days before the satellite system's official launch. The player must get the TM Network band to a concert for world peace, even if it means driving a truck, to prevent civilization's destruction.

Gameplay

Using an interface typical of graphic adventure games, the player interacts with the all-male band members and various strangers, including a security guard, an office lady, and normal Japanese citizens. The player must persuade the world to declare global peace using musical influence inspired by rock music. The game includes action components, a maze using 3D computer graphics, and mini-games such as car chases. The player must be careful not to reveal that he is from 1999; telling the wrong person results in imprisonment and the world's destruction via World War III. Japanese literacy is required, as the game is entirely in Japanese with only a few English words. Players can continue using a 14-symbol password system of common Japanese characters, and can memorize telephone numbers from various sources to dial during the game.