Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu News

[p]Hey everyone![/p][p][/p][p]We’ve got big news to kick off the year: Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu is about to make its first-ever public playable appearance at the Bristol Video Games Expo (VGE)![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]For the first time, players will be able to dive headfirst into the latest build, try out new courses, revisit returning favourites, and experience the full force of our signature slapstick athleticism. Expect wobbly legs, questionable obstacles, and the kind of Takeshi’s Castle–style chaos that only Nippon Marathon can deliver.[/p][p][/p][p]You’ll find the demo at the DEBUG booth, where we’ll be hanging out all weekend to chat, gather feedback, and show you what’s coming next as development continues.[/p][p][/p][h3]🏃 What’s in the Demo?[/h3]

• [p]🦌 Play two new stages, including the exclusive Shika Shika Deer Town — and yes, the Ceiling Licker boss is waiting for you.[/p]
• [p]🍍 Throw Fruit weapons and bizarre obstacles at your friends (or enemies… we don’t judge).[/p]
• [p]🎭 Try Create‑a‑Contestant, Photo Mode, podium poses, and secret dances to show off your style.[/p]
• [p]📢 Share your feedback while we’re still building the game — it genuinely helps shape what comes next.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]📅 Event Details[/h3]

• [p]Bristol Video Games Expo (VGE)  [/p]
• [p]Saturday 28 February  [/p]
• [p]DEBUG Booth[/p]

[p]If you’re attending, come say hi and take the world’s most chaotic footrace for a spin![/p][p][/p][h3]🛒 Wishlist & Follow[/h3][p]If you can’t make it to Bristol, you can still support the game by wishlisting and following us here on Steam. It genuinely helps more than you’d think and keeps you updated as we roll out new builds, characters, and courses.[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h3]❤️ From Onion Soup Interactive[/h3][p]We’re a tiny team making unapologetically weird games with a lot of heart. Seeing players laugh, shout, and fall over (in-game, preferably) is what keeps us going. Thanks for sticking with us as we bring Nippon Marathon 2 to life.[/p][p]More updates soon,[/p][p]Stay Daijoubu![/p][p]Andy & Amy[/p][p]
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[p]Konnichiwa everyone! 👋[/p][p][/p][p]It’s me, Wedy Jones! We hope you had a good holiday break, because now it’s 2026, and we’re racing head‑first (and ever closer!) toward Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu launching into Early Access.[/p][p][/p][p]As we prepare for that moment, we thought it’d be fun to show you how we build our stages: from the first spark of inspiration to full‑blown chaos, all cooked up inside Onion Soup Interactive HQ (The spare room in our house).[/p][p][/p][p]So let’s rewind to the very start, where every stage truly begins.[/p][p][/p][h2]🧭 Step 1: Location Location Location[/h2][p][/p][p][/p][p]Did you know each stage is (loosely) based on real Japanese locations? So first, we need to do some research… and by “research,” we mean this:[/p]

• [p]We travel to Japan.[/p]
• [p]We admire the scenery.[/p]
• [p]We eat a melon bun.[/p]
• [p]We say something like:[/p]
• [p]“Wow, Japan is beautiful.”[/p]

[p][/p][p]Then immediately follow it with:[/p][p]“Yokohama reminds us of Shenmue. Let's make a Harbour stage and fill it with sailors doing stupid things!”[/p]

• [p]And just like that, a stage concept is born.[/p]
• [p]Real places give us the starting point.[/p]
• [p]Then we get to work adding the Nippon Marathon flavour.[/p]
• [p](We haven’t visited every location in Japan… but that's what NHK is for, right? )[/p][p][/p]

[h2]🎲 Step 2: Add Obstacles Until It Hurts[/h2][p][/p][p][/p][p]Now we have a location - we need obstacles.[/p][p][/p][p]Obstacles aren’t just hazards. They’re part of the rhythm, the comedy, and the inevitable falls you’ll absolutely experience.[/p][p][/p][p]So we ask ourselves:[/p][p]“How can we make this place as gloriously inconvenient as possible?”[/p]

• [p]Maybe there is a building site that you have to run through before you reach the docks?[/p]
• [p]Building sites often use chutes for quickly sending rubble to the ground level. Chutes are just slides... Everyone loves slides![/p]
• [p]We want stages to be fun even if you've played them many times, so we include hazards that are hard to predict. So naturally the chutes should send you into.... busy traffic![/p]

[p]Do these things happen often in real life?[/p][p]…No.[/p][p][/p][p]Do they feel like they should happen in Nippon Marathon?[/p][p]Absolutely.[/p][p][/p][p]Whatever ridiculous idea pops into our heads, we write it down.[/p][p][/p][p](We are extremely professional.)[/p][p][/p][h2]📦 Step 3: Introduce Items Nobody Asked For[/h2][p][/p][p]Now we have a location and some obstacles, we sprinkle in the Nippon Marathon essentials:[/p]

• [p]Strategically placed fruit weapons[/p]
• [p]A bamboo man doing… this \[pictured above][/p]
• [p]A suspicious number of blue barrels[/p]
• [p]Checkpoints[/p]
• [p]Super fans holding signs cheering you on[/p]

[p]They’re silly, yes, but they also shape the tactics you’ll use mid‑race - like picking up fruit or weaving under the bamboo men.[/p][p][/p][h2]🌀 Step 4: Break Everything (Scientifically)[/h2][p]So now we have a location, obstacles, and items - we nearly have a stage.[/p][p][/p][p]Now comes the most important part: TESTING![/p][p][/p][p]You may be surprised at how much testing goes into a game that often feels like no testing has been done.[/p][p][/p][p]But that’s the beauty of Nippon Marathon,  it’s all about balancing chaos in a way that is controlled… but still unpredictable.[/p][p][/p][p]During testing, things get messy fast:[/p]

• [p]Players might go the wrong way so the stage needs better signposting[/p]
• [p]Someone else gets hit by traffic and flies off the stage[/p]
• [p]An end of the round Freeze-frame gets accidentally NSFW[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]And while all this is happening, we take extremely serious, highly scientific notes like:[/p]

• [p]“Does Zenbei need a modesty filter for his uniform?”[/p]
• [p]“Increase homing melon range 10%”[/p]
• [p]“Add three more Shiba by the crossing.”[/p]
• [p]“Player 2 always gets attacked by a Shiba when spawning in at checkpoint 3... leave this in?”[/p]

[p][/p][p]This is the moment when a real‑life location stops being a place… and officially becomes a Nippon Marathon stage.[/p][p][/p][h2]🎭 Step 5: The DAIJOUBU Seal of Approval[/h2][p][/p][p][/p][p]Before a stage earns its final stamp of approval, we unleash it on our Discord play testers - the brave runners who willingly dive into unfinished chaos, discover bugs we didn’t know existed, and somehow find shortcuts we definitely didn’t put there on purpose.  This type of closed beta testing allows us to accommodate more playstyles than just our own. [/p][p][/p][p]Their reactions, screenshots, and “uh… is this meant to happen?” moments help us shape each course into its final form.[/p][p][/p][p]A stage is complete when:[/p]

• [p]Someone goes flying[/p]
• [p]Everyone finds it hilarious[/p]
• [p]Everyone wants to play it once more[/p]
• [p]We play it again[/p]
• [p]Everyone demands we play it twice more[/p]

[p]If it makes us shout DAIJOUBU, it’s ready for the world. [/p][p](As we covered in our last blog post… shouting DAIJOUBU it is a good sign.)[/p][p][/p][h2]🛒 Your Wishlist Makes a Huge Difference[/h2][p]You’ve watched us travel, trip, test, and shout DAIJOUBU - now help us launch this beautiful chaos into the world.[/p][p][/p][p]Wishlist Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu on Steam today.[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h2]🔜 Coming Up Next: Stage Spotlight - Yolko Harbour[/h2][p]Now let’s jump into your first destination in Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu; Yolko Harbour, a bustling port full of sailors, freighters, and one octopus who definitely did not sign up for this shift.[/p][p] [/p][p]So until next time…
Stay Daijoubu,
Wedy Jones[/p][p]
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[p]Konnichiwa everyone! 👋[/p][p][/p][p]It’s me, Wedy Jones - your fearless guide through the glorious nonsense of Nippon Marathon 2.[/p][p][/p][p]When you’re a foreigner in Japan, there are certain words you’ll hear all the time. Step into a shop? “Irasshaimase!” Greet a neighbor? “Konnichiwa!” Say thank you? “Arigatou gozaimasu!”.[/p][p][/p][p]But there’s one wonderful word you’ll hear everywhere, in every situation. A word that can save you, confuse you, and make you sound like you know what you’re doing. That word is…[/p][p][/p][p]✨ DAIJOUBU! ✨[/p][h2]
🎭 The Secret of DAIJOUBU[/h2][p]In Japanese, daijoubu (だいじょうぶ) means “I’m fine,” “It’s okay,” “No problem.” In Nippon Marathon 2, it means: “I just got knocked over by a Shiba Inu, but I’m still going.”[/p][p][/p][p]Daijoubu is the heart of the game: chaos happens, you laugh, you keep moving. [/p][p][/p][p]It’s no problem… It's daijoubu.[/p][p][/p][p]And if you’re still not sure what that looks like, let me show you…[/p][p][/p][h2]🌀 When Chaos Strikes… that’s DAIJOUBU![/h2][p][/p][h2][/h2][p]🐙Just when you thought you had the lead, a giant octopus takes you out… that’s DAIJOUBU![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]🍌Tripped up right before the finish line… that’s DAIJOUBU![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]🍈 Blasted sky‑high, only to land back in the race… that’s DAIJOUBU![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]🐕 Floating away on a pineapple balloon, knowing chaos awaits when it pops… that’s DAIJOUBU![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]🎭 Checkpoint in sight, then splash! Straight into the sea… that’s DAIJOUBU![/p][p][/p][h2]🎌 Naming the Game Daijoubu… that’s DAIJOUBU![/h2][p]The devs believe in the philosophy of DAIJOUBU so much they put it right in the title. [/p][p][/p][p]Because more than anything, daijoubu is the spirit of Nippon Marathon 2. It’s what you shout when chaos knocks you down, and the reason you laugh as you get back up. Wipeouts aren’t failures — they’re fun.[/p][p][/p][p]That’s why it’s in the title. In Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu, every fall is part of the race, every stumble adds to the madness, and every comeback keeps the joy alive.[/p][p][/p][p]Or maybe it’s just because “Two” and “Daijoubu” rhyme. Or maybe it’s a cheeky joke, like calling Nippon Marathon 2 simply “OK.” [/p][p][/p][p]Either way… DAIJOUBU![/p][p][/p][h2]💖 Ready to Be DAIJOUBU?... that’s DAIJOUBU![/h2][p]Ready to put your newly‑found daijoubu knowledge to the test; where wipeouts, melons, and Shibas are all part of the fun? [/p][p][/p][p]Prove it by smashing that Wishlist button for Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu on Steam.[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]And remember: no matter what happens… that’s DAIJOUBU.[/p][h2]
🔜 Coming Up Next: What Makes a Good Nippon Marathon Stage?[/h2][p]Get an introduction into what makes every course chaotic, hilarious, and unforgettable.[/p][p] [/p][p]So until next time…
Stay DAIJOUBU,[/p][p]
Wedy Jones[/p][p] [/p]

[p]Konnichiwa minna-san! 👋[/p][p][/p][p]Wedy Jones here with exciting news…[/p][p][/p][p]We’re kicking off creator outreach for Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu,  and we need your help to spread the word faster than a shopping trolley on a downhill slope![/p][p][/p][h2]🎮 About Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu[/h2][p][/p][p]Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu is a physics-based party racer inspired by Japanese game shows, packed with slapstick chaos, unpredictable hazards, and fruit-based combat.[/p][p][/p][p]Contestants dash through wild obstacle courses, dodge swinging bamboo men, and chuck melons at their rivals, all while dressed in lobster onesies. 🦞🍌[/p][p][/p][p]The indie devs behind it grew up on Takeshi’s Castle and Mario Kart, and Daijoubu is their love letter to that era. No setup. No fuss. Just pure, plug-and-play fun; a throwback to when cartoons ruled Saturday morning TV and cereal turned your milk blue.[/p][p][/p][p]Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu is nearly ready to launch into Early Access, but first, we want to share the experience with content creators.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]🥇 We Need YOU to Play Nippon Marathon 2[/h2][p][/p][p]We’re looking for streamers who get it. [/p]

• [p]The Takeshi’s Castle energy. [/p]
• [p]The fruit weapon carnage. [/p]
• [p]The glorious joy of knocking your rival into a pile of Shiba Inu and watching the chaos unfold.[/p]

[p]The kind of folks who dive in, embrace the madness, and turn every wipeout into a highlight reel.[/p][p][/p][h2]💎 Creator-Only Perk: Shika Shika Deer Town[/h2][p][/p][p]Not only will you be supporting a micro-indie team and helping more people discover the weirdest marathon in town, you’ll also unlock an exclusive stage not featured in the public demo:[/p][p][/p]

[p]Introducing Shika Shika Deer Town: [/p][p]Dash through a “traditional Japanese temple” lovingly mismanaged by the local deer population. But watch your step: one wrong move and they might knock you straight into a surprise boss battle against their ancient enemy… the Ceiling Licker (yes, really).[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]🎮 More Game Features[/h2][p][/p][p]There’s also more fun content to enjoy with your community[/p]

• [p]🎮 Solo + couch multiplayer for maximum melon mayhem[/p]
• [p]📸 Photo Mode (located in the Pause menu)[/p]
• [p]🦞 Lobster onesies. Always lobster onesies.[/p]
• [p]🧑‍🎤 Create-a-Contestant mode[/p]
• [p]💃 Podium poses and secret dances[/p]
• [p]🍍 Fruit weapons galore (banana peels, cucumber swords, homing melons…)[/p][p][/p]

[h2]🎁 Request you key[/h2][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Know someone destined to dash, dive, and fruit-bomb their way to glory? Tag them on socials and unleash the chaos! [/p][p][/p][p]Or if you’re the melon master in question, fill out our Key Request Form and join the madness.[/p][p] [/p][p]Request your Key[/p][p] [/p][h2]🔜 Coming Up Next:  What is DAIJOUBU?[/h2][p][/p][p]The devs have been a little out of sync (moving house will do that!), so let’s head back to school and uncover the true meaning of DAIJOUBU.[/p][p][/p][p]What does it mean? Why does it matter? And how does one word capture the wild, joyful chaos of Nippon Marathon 2 - so much so, it made it into the title?[/p][p][/p][p]Let’s find out together 🍌[/p][p][/p][p]So until next time…
Stay Daijoubu,
Wedy Jones[/p][p]
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[p][/p][p]Konnichiwa minna-san! 👋[/p][p][/p][p]Wedy Jones here with an edition of Wedy’s Game Guide that’s a little different from the usual Nippon Marathon 2 content.[/p][p]I’m here to celebrate all things Tokyo Game Show, and to mark the occasion, Nippon Marathon is participating in the TGS Steam Sale! 👏👏👏 [/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]It’s currently 75% off, so the perfect opportunity to experience Japan for a fraction of the cost of a matcha latte![/p][p][/p][p]But if you happen to be in Tokyo — maybe you're visiting for TGS, want to visit, or just are interested in all things Japan — I’ve got a recommendation that’s 100% certified Wedy-approved…[/p][p][/p][h2]🕹️ Play the Arcade Edition of Nippon Marathon at Mikado Game Center[/h2][p]Yes, you heard me.[/p][p][/p][p]Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, right next to Takadanobaba Station, you’ll find the arcade edition of Nippon Marathon, aptly titled Nippon Marathon Turbo Hyper=Running.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]It features exclusive stages, new contestants, leader boards, and faster gameplay — all designed for high-energy, arcade-friendly action. It even has custom cabinet artwork designed by veteran Namco character designer, Tatsuya Ishikawa (Dragon Spirit and Numan Athletics), and yes, it's totemo amazing![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The devs actually made the pilgrimage back in September 2023 to play it in person, while promoting SUPER 56 at TGS. [/p][p]It was a surreal moment, playing their own game, in a real arcade, in Tokyo. [/p][p]It was truly a dream come true, and yes, they got a little emotional.[/p][p][/p][h2]🏛️ About Mikado Game Center[/h2][p]Mikado Game Center is one of Tokyo’s most iconic arcades — a haven for retro and fighting game fans. Even if you’re not there to play Nippon Marathon, the devs recommend visiting (though let’s be honest, that should be the main reason).[/p][p][/p][p]It’s so legendary that IGN called it “One of the Best Arcades in Japan” — and they weren’t wrong.[/p][p][/p][p]Having Nippon Marathon Turbo Hyper = Running featured at such a venue is a huge honour. So go forth, grab a melon soda, and pay your respects to the arcade gods.[/p][p][/p][h2]🎯 Visiting Tokyo? Go Play It![/h2][p]If you're in town for TGS or just exploring, head to Mikado Game Center and try Nippon Marathon Turbo Hyper = Running.[/p][p]It’s a rare chance to experience the game in full arcade glory - and maybe shout “DAIJOBU!” at strangers in person (but maybe don’t do that).[/p][p][/p][p]📍 Mikado Game Center on Google Maps[/p][p]Japan, 〒169-0075 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Takadanobaba, 4 Chome−5−10 オアシスプラザビル １Ｆ[/p][p]https://maps.app.goo.gl/4pX1hwuiBRPnr3MWA
[/p][h2]💻 Not in Tokyo? Daijoubu! Grab the Original on Steam[/h2][p]Nippon Marathon is on sale now - complete with mini-games, wipeouts, and all the absurdity you love.[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]Don’t forget to wishlist Nippon Marathon 2: Daijoubu — and follow for updates on new chaos, contestants, and surprises.[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]Hopefully with your support Nippon Marathon 2 will get its own cabinet someday too. I’ve already designed it in my dreams - it involves life-size Shiba Inu statues, pineapple shaped seats, mushroom cloud gas emitters and a button that shouts “DAIJOUBU” when you push it. [/p][p][/p][p]A true masterpiece. I know.[/p][p]Until then, I’ll be waiting at the finish line. Probably upside down.[/p][p][/p][h2]🔜 Coming Up Next: The Discord reacts to the new Stage in Nippon Marathon 2[/h2][p]The Discord has had a sneak peek at new stage Shika Shika Deer Town, so let's see what they got up to.[/p][p][/p][p]Stay Daijoubu[/p][p]Wedy Jones
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