Idolmaster SP

Three versions, one rival studio, endless competition on the PSP.

The Idolmaster SP is a PlayStation Portable title released in three distinct versions—Perfect Sun, Missing Moon, and Wandering Star—on February 19, 2009. Developed by Bandai Namco Entertainment, this entry expands the franchise's world by introducing rival studios and new characters while retaining the core raising simulation mechanics. Unlike previous titles focused solely on 765 Production, SP pits the player against idols from 961 Pro in a competitive environment. The game features a unique multiplayer mode allowing up to three players to interact their idols and audition together, marking a significant evolution in social gameplay within the series.

Quick Facts

Affiliation

765 Production (Player) vs 961 Pro (Rival)

Division type

Competitive Rivalry

Key manager

Producer (Player Character)

Notable members

Miki Hoshii
Hibiki Ganaha
Takane Shijō (961 Pro)

Status

Released February 19, 2009

Lore & Background

The narrative of Idolmaster SP centers on the expansion of the idol universe beyond the small office of 765 Production. A pivotal plot point is the introduction of 961 Production as a formidable rival agency. This version re-introduces Miki Hoshii, who now works for 961 Pro rather than 765 Pro. Additionally, two new characters join the fray: Hibiki Ganaha and Takane Shijō, both affiliated with 961 Pro. The distribution of these new idols is strictly version-dependent; Hibiki appears in Perfect Sun, Miki is featured in Missing Moon, and Takane is exclusive to Wandering Star. This structure forces players to choose which rival idol they wish to confront or recruit, fundamentally altering the story's dynamic compared to earlier entries.

Reader's Guide

Gameplay in Idolmaster SP retains the raising simulation roots but introduces significant changes to lessons and character management. Training an idol involves minigames designed to boost vocal, dance, and visual statistics, with the number of available lessons adjusted for this title compared to other entries in the series. The schedule phase allows producers to arrange daily activities, though specific options may vary from the original arcade game's limited choices.

Communication with idols remains critical; text progression pauses when multiple responses are offered, requiring timely decisions that build mutual trust or create bad memories affecting future auditions. A new promise system is introduced in SP to further enhance these interactions. The audition phase serves as the primary method for climbing rankings and gaining fans through vocal, dance, and visual minigames. Successful candidates advance to televised public performances where player direction can influence the outcome.