Editing Viewtiful Joe (video game)

{{Short description|2003 video game}}
{{Use mdy dates|date = February 2025}}
{{Good article}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Viewtiful Joe
| image = VJbox.jpg
| caption = North American cover art
| developer = {{nowrap|[[Capcom Production Studio 4]]}}{{efn|Ported to [[PlayStation 2]] by [[Clover Studio]]}}
| publisher = [[Capcom]]
| director = [[Hideki Kamiya]]
| producer = [[Atsushi Inaba]]
| designer = 
| programmer = Noriyuki Ōtani
| artist = Kumiko Suekane
| writer = 
| composer = Masakazu Sugimori<br>Masami Ueda
| series = ''[[Viewtiful Joe]]''
| platforms = [[GameCube]], [[PlayStation 2]]
| released = {{Collapsible list|title={{nobold|June 26, 2003}}|
'''GameCube'''{{vgrelease|JP|June 26, 2003<ref>{{cite web | author=IGN staff | date=2003-05-06 | title=IGN: ''Viewtiful Joe'' Japanese Delay | url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/403/403631p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=2009-02-19 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080118105326/http://cube.ign.com/articles/403/403631p1.html | archive-date=18 January 2008 }}</ref>|NA|October 7, 2003<ref>{{cite web| author=Calvert, Justin | date=2003-10-07 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Ships | url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6076468.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-19}}</ref>|EU|October 24, 2003<ref name="GSRelease">{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' for GameCube | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/action/viewtifuljoe/similar.html?mode=versions | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-04-12 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100112045054/http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/action/viewtifuljoe/similar.html?mode=versions | archive-date=12 January 2010 }}</ref>|AU|October 2003}}
'''PlayStation 2'''{{vgrelease|NA|24 August 2004<ref>{{cite web | author=Golze, Benjamin | date=24 August 2004 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' released for the PlayStation 2 | url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/viewtifuljoe/news_6105595.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-19 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050507182722/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/viewtifuljoe/news_6105595.html | archive-date=7 May 2005 }}</ref>|JP|9 September 2004<ref>{{cite web | title=PlayStation.com(Japan)｜ソフトウェアカタログ｜ビューティフルジョー 新たなる希望 | url=http://www.jp.playstation.com/software/title/slpm65699.html | publisher=[[Sony Computer Entertainment]] | language=ja | access-date=2009-04-12 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090814191307/http://www.jp.playstation.com/software/title/slpm65699.html | archive-date=14 August 2009 }}</ref>|EU|22 October 2004<ref name="EuroP">{{cite web | author=Bramwell, Tom | date=24 August 2004 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Review // PS2 | url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/ir_viewtifuljoe_ps2 | publisher=[[Eurogamer]] | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110830020721/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/ir_viewtifuljoe_ps2 | archive-date=30 August 2011 }}</ref>}}}}
| genre = [[Beat 'em up]], [[Platformer|platform]]
| modes = [[Single-player]]
}}
{{nihongo foot|'''''Viewtiful Joe'''''|ビューティフル ジョー|Byūtifuru Jō|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is a 2003 [[beat 'em up]] [[Platformer|platform]] [[video game]] developed by [[Team Viewtiful]] and published by [[Capcom]] for the [[GameCube]]. It was originally released as a part of the [[Capcom Five]], under director [[Hideki Kamiya]] and producer [[Atsushi Inaba]]. The game was later ported to the [[PlayStation 2]] by the same design team under the name [[Clover Studio]], subtitled in Japan {{nihongo|'''''Aratanaru Kibō'''''|新たなる希望||{{lit.}} "A New Hope"|lead=yes}}. The game's story concerns Joe, an avid movie-goer whose girlfriend Silvia is kidnapped during a film starring Joe's favorite [[superhero]], Captain Blue. Joe is shortly thereafter thrust into Movieland, where Silvia is taken by the villainous group known as Jadow. After accepting a special V-Watch from Captain Blue, Joe transforms into the [[tokusatsu]]-style persona "Viewtiful Joe" and sets out to rescue her.

The gameplay of ''Viewtiful Joe'' features traditional [[2D computer graphics|2D]] [[Platform game|platform]] [[Side-scrolling video game|side-scrolling]] intermixed with [[3D computer graphics|3D]] [[Cel-shaded animation|cel-shaded]] graphics. Abilities known as "VFX Powers" grant the player special actions for combat and puzzle-solving, such as slowing down or speeding up time. ''Viewtiful Joe'' was critically acclaimed for its unique visual style and gameplay, earning itself a number of awards from various media publications. A minor commercial success, the game spawned several [[#Legacy|sequels]], with releases seen on other consoles such as the [[PlayStation Portable]] (PSP) and [[Nintendo DS]]. An [[anime]] [[Viewtiful Joe (TV series)|adaption of the game]] and a [[manga]] series were also produced.

==Gameplay==
''Viewtiful Joe''{{'}}s core gameplay is similar to a traditional side-scrolling [[beat 'em up]]. Taking control of Joe, the player is mostly limited to moving left, right, up, and down on a fixed 2D path. The game contains platforming elements, such as the ability to jump and double jump. Combat consists of fighting multiple enemies on screen at once, with the enemies appearing from all directions, including the foreground and background. Joe has the ability to punch, kick, and dodge—which he can do by leaping upward or ducking. Dodging enemies' attacks successfully temporarily dazes them, leaving them wide open for attack.<ref name="EuroG">{{cite web | author=Bramwell, Tom | date=13 October 2003 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Review // GC | url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_viewtifuljoe_gc | publisher=Eurogamer | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081229130920/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_viewtifuljoe_gc | archive-date=29 December 2008 }}</ref> The player has certain number of [[Health (gaming)|hit points]] in the form of "Life Marks" located above the VFX Gauge, which decrease whenever Joe takes damage. Health can be restored by picking up [[hamburger]]s.<ref name="book2">{{cite book | year=2003 | editor=Capcom staff| title=Viewtiful Joe instruction manual | page=15 | publisher=Capcom Entertainment Inc.}}</ref>
[[File:Viewtiful-joe-gameplay.jpg|left|thumb|The Mach Speed VFX Power allows Viewtiful Joe to attack multiple enemies on screen at once.|alt=Several copies of a character in a red superhero uniform attack grey-colored enemies onscreen. Three hearts are displayed at the top of the screen next to the word "Life". Below that is a blue bar fixated between the word "VFX" and a few film canister symbols. A larger version of the symbol is displayed at the right along with a time and four-digit score. The letter V is repeated across the left of the screen.]]
''Viewtiful Joe'' features unique gameplay elements in the form of Joe's "Viewtiful Effects (VFX) Power", which is designed to emulate camera tricks seen in films.<ref name="book1">{{cite book | year=2003 | editor=Capcom staff| title=Viewtiful Joe instruction manual | pages=19–21 | publisher=[[Capcom|Capcom Entertainment Inc.]]}}</ref> VFX Power is used in both battling enemies, and solving various puzzles. These three powers are limited by the "VFX Gauge" located at the top of the screen. Normally, the meter is full, giving the player access to Joe's super powers via his Viewtiful Joe transformation. The meter slowly empties when an ability is in use. Once it depletes, Viewtiful Joe changes to normal Joe, lowering his attack and defense and leaving him temporarily devoid of VFX Power.<ref name="book2"/><ref name="GYG">{{cite web | author=Padilla, Raymond | date=8 October 2003 | title=Reviews: ''Viewtiful Joe ''(GC) | url=http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/october03/viewtifuljoegcn/ | publisher=[[GameSpy]] | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219175950/http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/october03/viewtifuljoegcn/ | archive-date=19 December 2011 }}</ref> The VFX Gauge automatically refills over time, and can also be manually filled by picking up bottles of "VFX Juice". The first VFX Power is "Slow", which [[Bullet Time|slows time]], causing the player's attacks to be more powerful, increasing Joe's reflexes, and allowing him to dodge attacks more easily. The second VFX Power, "[[Mach number|Mach Speed]]", allows Joe to move at a faster speed, creating multiple after-images of him when he unleashes a flurry of attacks on all enemies on the screen.<ref name="IGNP"/> It can additionally cause his attacks to envelop Joe in a temporary heat shield, rendering him immune to flame attacks and setting enemies on fire when struck. The last VFX Power, "Zoom In", causes a camera [[close-up]] of Joe, powering up his normal attacks, granting him a set of new attacks, and paralyzing all lesser foes in proximity to him. However, any damage dealt to Joe whilst zoomed in is increased too.<ref name="book1"/> Any two VFX Powers can be combined.<ref name="EuroP"/><ref name="IGNP">{{cite web |author=Dunham, Jeremy |date=20 August 2004 |title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Review |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/540/540668p1.html |publisher=IGN |access-date=2006-06-05 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060625170644/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/540/540668p1.html |archive-date=25 June 2006 }}</ref> The VFX Gauge can be extended by collecting a certain number of V-Films present in each [[Level (video games)|stage]].<ref name="EuroG"/> The bar reverts to its normal length when a new stage begins.<ref name="book2"/>

Defeating enemies gives the player "V-Points" in the form of small and large coins, while using special attacks gives them "V-Marks", or "Viewtifuls", which can be converted into V-Points. Viewtifuls can be quickly gained by using [[Combo (gaming)|combos]] or long chains of attacks.<ref>{{cite book | year=2003 | editor=Capcom staff| title=Viewtiful Joe instruction manual | page=23 | publisher=Capcom Entertainment Inc.}}</ref><ref name="GYP">{{cite web | author=Williams, Bryn | date=23 August 2004 | title=Reviews: ''Viewtiful Joe'' (PS2) | url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/viewtiful-joe/541460p1.html | publisher=GameSpy | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012004143/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/viewtiful-joe/541460p1.html | archive-date=12 October 2008 }}</ref> For example, while using Slow, striking a dazed enemy sets up all other enemies on the screen for a chain reaction, causing all points accrued during the duration of Slow to be multiplied by the number of enemies struck. If used deftly, the player will accumulate a large number of Viewtifuls due to the multiplier effect called "X-Bonus". Each stage in ''Viewtiful Joe'' consists of several interconnected missions, or scenes, that the player must complete in order to advance.<ref>{{cite book | year=2003 | editor=Capcom staff| title=''Viewtiful Joe'' instruction manual | page=17 | publisher=Capcom Entertainment Inc.}}</ref> When completing the stage, the player is graded on the number of V-Points earned, the amount of time taken, and how much damage Joe took. V-Points can be used between stages to purchase new abilities, expendable weapons (which include the "Voomerang" and "Shocking Pink Bombs"), more health, and health-restorative items.<ref name="IGNP"/><ref name="GSG">{{cite web | author=Gerstmann, Jeff | date=6 October 2003 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' for GameCube Review | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/action/viewtifuljoe/review.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090317180814/http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/action/viewtifuljoe/review.html | archive-date=17 March 2009 }}</ref> Clearing the game on various difficulties allows players to play as different characters such as Silvia, Captain Blue and Alastor, with the PlayStation 2 version also allowing players to play as ''[[Devil May Cry]]''{{'}}s [[Dante (Devil May Cry)|Dante]].

==Plot==
''Viewtiful Joe'' is divided into seven stages, or "episodes", interspersed with storyline cutscenes, and bookended by an opening and ending cinematic. The setting is divided between [[Earth]], and "Movieland", the game's fictional world of films. The plot begins in a movie theatre on Earth, in which the game's central character Joe and his girlfriend Silvia are watching a [[tokusatsu]] drama, starring the aged superhero Captain Blue. The movie's antagonist, having seemingly defeated Captain Blue, suddenly reaches out of the screen and abducts Silvia, taking her into Movieland. Joe is likewise picked up and taken into Movieland by Captain Blue's giant [[mecha]], "Six Majin". Inside the movie, Joe must rescue Silvia from the evil Jadow, the game's organization of [[villain]]s. To help him, Captain Blue entrusts him with a V-Watch, a device Joe can use to transform into a superhero upon saying the word "henshin (transform)."<ref>{{cite video game|title=Viewtiful Joe |developer=Capcom Production Studio 4|publisher=Capcom|date=26 June 2003|platform=Nintendo GameCube|quote='''Captain Blue:''' Ahh, your heroness has awakened. Now, the V-Watch is responding to your hero instincts deep down inside. When the V-Watch glows, say the word, "Henshin!”}}</ref> Joe promptly does so, inventing his own [[catchphrase]]: "Henshin-a-go-go, baby!"

With the guidance of Captain Blue, Joe fights his way through a number of Movieland's locations such as cities, caves, an underwater base, and a [[submarine]], often travelling via his trusty, robot aircraft "Six Machine". One by one, Joe defeats the members of the Jadow, the game's [[Boss (video gaming)|bosses]]. These include Dark Fiend Charles the 3rd, Iron [[Ogre]] Hulk Davidson, Aquatic Terror Gran Bruce, a [[doppelgänger]] of Viewtiful Joe, and Blade Master Alastor. Before fighting Alastor, he reveals that in order for the Jadow to break out of Movieland and into the land of humans, they need the "[[DNA]] of the Creator", namely Silvia.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Viewtiful Joe |developer=Capcom Production Studio 4|publisher=Capcom|date=26 June 2003|platform=Nintendo GameCube|quote='''Alastor:''' The key to our success lies in the DNA of the Creator. As long as we have that DNA in our possession, we will be able to come and go at will in the world of humans, which is why we need the girl. '''Joe:''' The girl...? You mean Silvia!}}</ref> Joe makes his way to her, trumping the Jadow's leader Inferno Lord Fire Leo in combat, only to witness Silvia being kidnapped once again afterwards. Joe and Six Machine race off into outer space after her in the game's final episode.

Finding Silvia atop the control room of a space station, Joe discovers that Captain Blue has been behind the plot the entire time. The former hero reveals that he is the creator of the film in which they currently exist, and that he is Silvia's seemingly-deceased father.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Viewtiful Joe |developer=Capcom Production Studio 4|publisher=Capcom|date=26 June 2003|platform=Nintendo GameCube|quote='''Captain Blue:''' Foolish boy, you still don’t get it, do you? I am the Creator; I made this film and everything in it. Silvia, I am your father, Silvia. '''Silvia:''' That's not true... momma told me my daddy died!}}</ref> Transforming into the colossal robot King Blue, the villain proclaims that he will take Sylvia's energy by force in order to break into the real world. Joe tells him off, telling him that he's no hero. Joe summons Six Majin, and the two engage in combat. When the fight ends, Captain Blue and Viewtiful Joe abandon their respective vehicles, and face off in a final battle within the space station.

Joe is victorious, and Captain Blue, finally coming to his senses, thanks the young hero for stopping him. He explains that two decades earlier, Blue was a revolutionary film maker who was soon thought of as a fad. Wanting nothing more than to create heroes, Blue was sucked into one of his own films, allowing him to live out his dream as a hero. However, he had lost touch with reality, and wanted revenge on the people who had betrayed him. As Captain Blue and Silvia embrace in a heartfelt reunion, the director tells Joe that the story is not complete. He snaps his fingers, and the space station's onboard computer warns of a large number of [[Unidentified flying object|UFOs]] heading towards Earth. Blue tells Joe that a hero will be needed twice more to save the world.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Viewtiful Joe |developer=Capcom Production Studio 4|publisher=Capcom|date=26 June 2003|platform=Nintendo GameCube|quote='''Captain Blue:''' Like I said, there’s more to this story. There’s two more times the Earth will be in danger. And each time a hero must stand up to defend it. '''Joe:''' Wh-wh-what did you say? Did you say two more times?}}</ref> Joe attempts to leave, but not before Silvia requests a V-Watch from her father and to accompany her boyfriend. Viewtiful Joe and a newly transformed Silvia head out to stop the impending threat together.

==Development==
''Viewtiful Joe'' was developed by the design staff "[[Team Viewtiful]]",<ref name="staff" /> a part of [[Capcom Production Studio 4]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/studio4/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050206023353/http://www.capcom.co.jp/studio4/index.html |title=Production Studio 4 |language=ja |archive-date=6 February 2005 |publisher=[[Capcom Co., Ltd]]}}</ref><ref name="cps4">{{cite web |url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/377/377330p1.html |title=Capcom's Fantastic Five |date=13 November 2002 |work=[[IGN]] |publisher=IGN Entertainment, Inc. |access-date=17 July 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120312122107/http://cube.ign.com/articles/377/377330p1.html |archive-date=12 March 2012 }}</ref> The game was announced in late 2002 as part of the [[Capcom Five]], a line-up of five then-upcoming GameCube games to introduce new content to the console.<ref name="Five">{{cite web | author=IGN staff | date=13 November 2002 | title=Capcom's Fantastic Five | url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/377/377330p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=2009-02-16 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120312122107/http://cube.ign.com/articles/377/377330p1.html | archive-date=12 March 2012 }}</ref> It was directed by Capcom alumnus [[Hideki Kamiya]], whose previous credits include the planning of ''[[Resident Evil (1996 video game)|Resident Evil]]'' and ''[[Resident Evil 2]]'' and the direction of ''[[Devil May Cry (video game)|Devil May Cry]]''. It was produced by [[Atsushi Inaba]], who previously worked on the ''[[Ace Attorney]]'' series and ''[[Steel Battalion]]''. In its earliest stages of development, ''Viewtiful Joe'' went under the working title "Red Hot Man", but the name was changed due to [[copyright]] conflicts with the American [[rock music|rock]] band [[Red Hot Chili Peppers]].<ref name="Family">{{cite web | author=Mielke, James | date=18 August 2008 | title=Retro/Active: Hideki Kamiya – The Okami Family Tree | url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152913 | publisher=[[1UP.com]] | access-date=2009-02-18 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927202000/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152913 | archive-date=27 September 2007 }}</ref> ''Viewtiful Joe''{{'}}s development team initially consisted of six people working under a twelve-month deadline. As work continued, the size of the team grew, and development ended up taking a full 21 months to complete.<ref>{{cite web | author=Theobald, Phil | date=9 March 2005 | title=Atsushi Inaba on Creating Successful Games | url=http://www.gamespy.com/articles/594/594760p1.html | publisher=GameSpy | access-date=2009-02-23 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081007051546/http://www.gamespy.com/articles/594/594760p1.html | archive-date=7 October 2008 }}</ref> The game was conceived as a "staff-focused project" aimed at increasing the skill of its creators, specifically director Kamiya.<ref name="postcard">{{cite web | author=Sheffield, Brandon | date=11 March 2005 | title=Postcard from GDC 2005: Lessons from ''Viewtiful Joe'': Making a Creatively and Financially Successful New Game | url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/postcard-from-gdc-2005-lessons-from-viewtiful-joe-making-a-creatively-and-financially-successful-new-game | publisher=Gamasutra | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220215240/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/2251/postcard_from_gdc_2005_lessons_.php | archive-date=20 December 2008 }}</ref>

Inaba stated, "We wanted to create a challenging game with stunning visuals and fluid gameplay". As a lifelong fan of [[superhero]]es, Inaba's aim was to combine traditional Japanese tokusatsu with [[American comic book]]s.<ref name="CVGI">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/93136/exclusive-inter-viewtiful-joe-interview-screens-movies/?vid=disable|title=Exclusive: Inter-''Viewtiful Joe''! Interview, screens, movies!|date=27 June 2003|website=Computerandvideogames.com|publisher=[[Computer and Video Games]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025010922/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/93136/exclusive-inter-viewtiful-joe-interview-screens-movies/?vid=disable|archive-date=25 October 2012|access-date=2009-02-17}}</ref><ref name="Inaba">{{cite web | author=IGN staff | date=3 October 2003 | title=Viewtiful Joe's Atsushi Inaba | url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/452/452923p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=2009-02-16 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101216072918/http://cube.ign.com/articles/452/452923p1.html | archive-date=16 December 2010 }}</ref> The character designs created by Kumiko Suekane were inspired specifically by 1960s and 1970s Japanese-costumed tokusatsu television shows such as ''[[Kamen Rider]]'' and ''[[Ultraman]]''.<ref name="GSG"/> Graphically, the game adopted a 2D side-scrolling style mixed with [[3D computer graphics|3D]] [[cel-shaded animation]].<ref name="Family"/> Despite many games in the then-modern industry shying away from 2D graphical formats, Inaba said, "We have been able to breathe new life into the genre because we are using a new stylistic way that hasn't been seen before."<ref name="Bunker"/> The team chose the GameCube as its platform because of their target audience and because it lent itself well to ''Viewtiful Joe''{{'}}s gameplay.<ref name="Inaba"/>

The musical score for ''Viewtiful Joe'' was co-composed by Masakazu Sugimori and {{Ill|Masami Ueda|jp|上田雅美}}. It was released alongside the score for ''[[Viewtiful Joe 2]]'' on a double album titled ''Viewtiful Joe + Viewtiful Joe 2 Original Soundtrack'' in Japan on 22 December 2004 by [[Suleputer]].<ref>{{cite web | title=Chudah's Corner – ''Viewtiful Joe + Viewtiful Joe 2 Original Soundtrack'' | url=http://www.chudahs-corner.com/soundtracks/index.php?catalog=CPCA-10102~03 | publisher=Chudah's Corner | access-date=2009-02-18 | url-status=usurped | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110131090257/http://chudahs-corner.com/soundtracks/index.php?catalog=CPCA-10102%7E03 | archive-date=31 January 2011 }}</ref> A music video is played within the game featuring a [[Rapping|rap]] vocal song titled "Viewtiful World" composed by [[Dai Nagao|D.A.I.]] The video features a group of people, including Inaba himself, [[motion capture]]d as some of the game's characters.<ref name="Bunker"/> On 11 June 2003, [[Avex Group|Avex]] released the video on DVD and released the song as a single.<ref>{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful World Viewtiful Joe'' [DVD] | url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=AVBD-91155 | publisher=CDJapan | access-date=2009-10-20 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014214335/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=AVBD-91155 | archive-date=14 October 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful World Viewtiful Joe'' [CD] | url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=AVCD-30475 | publisher=CDJapan | access-date=2009-10-20 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014214428/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=AVCD-30475 | archive-date=14 October 2012 }}</ref> Both the North American and Japanese releases of ''Viewtiful Joe'' feature English voice acting in order to keep a "western comic book feel to [the game]."<ref name="Bunker">{{cite web | author=McPhill | date=6 May 2006 | title=Capcom's Atsushi Inaba on Viewtiful Joe | url=http://www.gamebunker.com/install/pages.php?id=80 | publisher=Game Bunker | access-date=2009-03-07 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060903125433/http://www.gamebunker.com/install/pages.php?id=80 | archive-date=3 September 2006 | url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Voice acting|Voice-over]] work in ''Viewtiful Joe'' was provided by [[Soundelux Design Music Group]]. Voice actors for the game include [[Dee Bradley Baker]], [[Christina Puccelli]], [[Gregg Berger]], [[Mikey Kelley]], [[Roger Rose]], and [[Kevin Michael Richardson]]. Director Hideki Kamiya provides the voice for Six Machine.<ref name="staff">{{cite video game |title=''Viewtiful Joe'' |developer=[[Capcom Production Studio 4|Production Studio 4]] |publisher=[[Capcom Entertainment, Inc.]] |date=7 October 2003 |scene=staff credits}}</ref>

A budget re-release of the game for the GameCube titled ''Viewtiful Joe: Revival'' was released in Japan in late 2003, adding a "Sweet Mode" to decrease the difficulty setting from the original game's "Kids Mode".<ref name="IGNP"/><ref>{{cite web | title=GC ''Viewtiful Joe'' Revival | url=http://www.ncsx.org/2003/ncs121503/joe_revival.htm | publisher=NCSX.org | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006141911/http://www.ncsx.org/2003/ncs121503/joe_revival.htm | archive-date=6 October 2011 }}</ref><ref name="GSP">{{cite web | author=Gerstmann, Jeff | date=23 August 2004 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' for PlayStation 2 Review | url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/viewtifuljoe/review.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090217113731/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/viewtifuljoe/review.html | archive-date=17 February 2009 }}</ref> A PlayStation 2 port of ''Viewtiful Joe'' was released by [[Clover Studio]] in 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/capcom-launches-clover-studio-6101742|title=Capcom launches Clover Studio|author=Niizumi, Hirohiko|date=1 July 2004|website=Gamespot|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103200830/http://www.gamespot.com/news/capcom-launches-clover-studio-6101742|archive-date=3 November 2012|access-date=2009-02-18}}</ref> It was released in Japan with the subtitle ''A New Hope''. The release added the character [[Dante (Devil May Cry)|Dante]] of ''Devil May Cry'' as an [[Secret character (video games)|unlockable character]].<ref>{{cite web | author=Dunham, Jeremy | date=20 July 2004 | title=A New Hope for Viewtiful Joe? | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/07/20/a-new-hope-for-viewtiful-joe | publisher=IGN | access-date=2022-01-01 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070125160955/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/531/531910p1.html | archive-date=25 January 2007 }}</ref> The PlayStation 2 version does not feature [[progressive scan]] seen in the GameCube version.<ref name="IGNP"/><ref name="GYP"/> The game was also re-released under Nintendo's GameCube [[Player's Choice]] label in 2004 in North America and Europe.<ref name="GSRelease"/>

It is said that Director Kamiya based Joe's run animation on how he got to work, and the bosses of the game are based on Capcom executives.{{Citation needed|date=January 2014}}

In a 2017 interview with ''Dengeki PlayStation'', Kamiya expressed interest in remaking the game.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sato |date=20 November 2017 |title=Hideki Kamiya Wants To Do A ''Viewtiful Joe'' Or DMC Remake, And A Dante x Bayonetta Crossover |url=http://www.siliconera.com/2017/11/20/hideki-kamiya-wants-viewtiful-joe-dmc-remake-dante-x-bayonneta-crossover/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171123075157/http://www.siliconera.com/2017/11/20/hideki-kamiya-wants-viewtiful-joe-dmc-remake-dante-x-bayonneta-crossover/ |archive-date=23 November 2017 |work=Siliconera}}</ref>

==Reception==
{{Video game reviews
| GR = 92% (74 reviews)<ref name="GRGC">{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Reviews | url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/562548.asp?q=viewtiful%20joe | publisher=[[GameRankings]] | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070324120352/http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/562548.asp?q=Viewtiful%20joe | archive-date=24 March 2007 }}</ref> (GCN)<br>88% (39 reviews)<ref name="GRPS2">{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Reviews | url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/920438.asp?q=viewtiful%20joe | publisher=Game Rankings | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050927042923/http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/920438.asp?q=viewtiful%20joe | archive-date=27 September 2005 }}</ref> (PS2)
| MC = 93/100 (52 reviews)<ref name="MCGC">{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' (cube: 2003): Reviews | url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/viewtiful-joe/critic-reviews/?platform=gamecube | publisher=[[Metacritic]] | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101123194059/http://www.metacritic.com/game/gamecube/viewtiful-joe | archive-date=23 November 2010 }}</ref> (GCN)<br>90/100 (43 reviews)<ref name="MCPS2">{{cite web | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' (ps2: 2004): Reviews | url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/viewtiful-joe/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 | publisher=Metacritic | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100908041701/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/viewtiful-joe | archive-date=8 September 2010 }}</ref> (PS2)
| EGM = 8.7/10 (GCN)<ref>{{cite magazine |date=November 2003 |title=''Viewtiful Joe'' review |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=172 |page=192,194 |url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-172-november-2003 }}</ref><br>8.7/10 (PS2)<ref>{{cite magazine |date=October 2004 |title=''Viewtiful Joe'' review |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=183 |page=106 |url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-183-october-2004 }}</ref>
| EuroG = 9/10 (GCN)<ref name="EuroG"/><br>9/10 (PS2)<ref name="EuroP"/>
| Fam = 33/40<ref>{{cite web | author=Altersitz, Samuel | date=18 June 2003 | title=GAF – News – ''Viewtiful Joe'', ''Dino Crisis 3'', and ''Animal Forest e+'' Get Scored by Famitsu | url=http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=1668 | publisher=GamesAreFun | access-date=2009-09-13 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612140710/http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=1668 | archive-date=12 June 2011 }}</ref> (GCN)
| GamePro = {{Rating|5|5}}<ref>{{cite web | author=Sifu, Pong | date=3 October 2003 | title=Review : ''Viewtiful Joe'' [GameCube] | url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/31290/viewtiful-joe/ | publisher=[[GamePro]] | access-date=2009-02-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100410034545/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/31290/viewtiful-joe/|archive-date=10 April 2010}}</ref> (GCN)<br>{{Rating|4.5|5}}<ref>{{cite web | author=Bones | date=22 September 2004 | title=Review : ''Viewtiful Joe'' [PS2] | url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/31290/viewtiful-joe/ | publisher=GamePro | access-date=2009-02-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100410034545/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/31290/viewtiful-joe/|archive-date=10 April 2010}}</ref> (PS2)
| GI = 9.5/10 (GCN)<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=October 2003 |title=Viewtiful Joe |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |page=124}}</ref><br>9.5/10 (PS2)<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=September 2004 |title=Viewtiful Joe review |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |page=107}}</ref>
| GSpot = 9.2/10<ref name="GSG"/> (GCN)<br>8.8/10<ref name="GSP"/> (PS2)
| GSpy = {{Rating|5|5}} (GCN)<ref name="GYG"/><br>{{rating|5|5}} (PS2)<ref name="GYP"/>
| IGN = 9.5/10<ref name="IGNG">{{cite web | author=Lewis, Cory D. | date=3 October 2003 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Review | url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/452/452942p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=2009-02-22 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122122739/http://cube.ign.com/articles/452/452942p1.html | archive-date=22 January 2009 }}</ref> (GCN)<br>9.1/10<ref name="IGNP"/> (PS2)
| Play = 100%<ref>{{cite journal |date=October 2003 |title=''Viewtiful Joe'' review |journal=[[Play (US magazine)|Play Magazine]] |issue=22|page=18 }}</ref> (GCN)<br>91%<ref>{{cite journal |date=September 2004 |title=''Viewtiful Joe'' review |journal=[[Play (US magazine)|Play Magazine]] |issue=33|page=73 }}</ref> (PS2)
}}

===Reviews and sales===
''Viewtiful Joe'' received critical acclaim upon its release.<ref name="GRGC"/><ref name="GRPS2"/> [[Metacritic]] lists the GameCube and PlayStation 2 versions of the game at 93 out of 100 and 90 out of 100, respectively.<ref name="MCGC"/><ref name="MCPS2"/> The game's graphics, gameplay, and challenge were all common areas of praise among many reviewers. ''[[IGN]]'' gave ''Viewtiful Joe'' an "Outstanding" rating, noting that the beautiful cel-shaded graphics and high-intensity action make it one of the best action games on the GameCube and PlayStation 2.<ref name="IGNP"/> Likewise, ''[[Eurogamer]]'' called it "imaginative, beautiful, engaging and above all else entertaining".<ref name="EuroG"/> [[Game Informer]] praised it as "a completely original and highly entertaining work of art".<ref name=gi>{{cite magazine | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071212161204/http://www.gameinformer.com/Games/Review/200310/R03.1014.1928.51126.htm  | url=http://www.gameinformer.com/Games/Review/200310/R03.1014.1928.51126.htm | title=Stupid Name...Great Game | archive-date=12 December 2007 | last=Reiner | first=Andrew | magazine=[[Game Informer]] | url-status=dead  | access-date=10 April 2010 }}</ref> Criticisms about ''Viewtiful Joe'' have been few, but consistent among reviews. ''IGN'' complained of the game's lack of boss variety.<ref name="IGNG"/> ''[[GameSpy]]'' has concurred, noting that the bosses were too easy due to a powerful attack that the player can perform.<ref name="GYG"/> Reviewers have also criticized the lack of progressive scan in the game's PlayStation 2 port.<ref name="IGNP"/><ref name="GYP"/> ''IGN'' and ''Eurogamer'' have additionally pointed out that the PlayStation 2 port suffers slowdown in later stages of the game.<ref name="EuroP"/><ref name="IGNP"/>

In Japan, the GameCube version of ''Viewtiful Joe'' sold through its initial shipment of less than 100,000 copies during the week of its release.<ref>{{cite web | author=IGN staff | date=3 July 2003 | title=''Viewtiful'' Sales | url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/427/427169p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=2009-02-24 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219195838/http://cube.ign.com/articles/427/427169p1.html | archive-date=19 December 2011 }}</ref> Preorders of the GameCube version sold out on Capcom's North American website prior to its ship date, and ''Viewtiful Joe'' debuted as the tenth best-selling game in the region.<ref>{{cite web | author=Altersitz, Samuel | date=18 October 2003 | title=News – Capcom: ''Viewtiful Joe'' is a Sell Out! | url=http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=171 | publisher=GamesAreFun | access-date=2009-02-18 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612134817/http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=171 | archive-date=12 June 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Jenkins, David | date=24 November 2003 | title=Latest US Console Sales Charts – October | url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/latest-us-console-sales-charts-october | publisher=[[Gamasutra]] | access-date=2009-03-23 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080922221406/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=2474 | archive-date=22 September 2008 }}</ref> The PlayStation 2 version sold a poor 9,912 units in its first week of release in Japan.<ref>{{cite web | author=Mambrucchi, Steeve | date=17 September 2004 | title=Top Ventes Jap (Sem n°37/2004) | url=http://www.gamekyo.com/news6182.html | publisher=Gamekyo | language=fr | access-date=2009-03-13 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004125603/http://www.gamekyo.com/news6182.html | archive-date=4 October 2011 }}</ref> Worldwide, sales of the game reached 275,000 copies on the GameCube and 46,000 on the PlayStation 2.<ref>{{cite web | author=Drake, Shannon | date=8 May 2007 | title=Vision Doesn't Sell Copies | url=http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_96/537-Vision-Doesnt-Sell-Copies.2 | publisher=[[The Escapist (magazine)|The Escapist]] | access-date=2009-02-24 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613200748/http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_96/537-Vision-Doesnt-Sell-Copies.2 | archive-date=13 June 2011 }}</ref> Sales of the game in both North America and Europe were lower than what Capcom had predicted, but due to its small budget, the game was considered by Inaba to be relatively successful commercially.<ref name="postcard"/><ref>{{cite web | title=Capcom Annual Report 2004 | date=31 March 2004 | url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/data/pdf/2004annual/Annual2004e.pdf#page22 | publisher=[[Capcom]] | access-date=2009-02-15 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812081806/http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/data/pdf/2004annual/Annual2004e.pdf#page22 | archive-date=12 August 2011 }}</ref>

===Legacy===
''Viewtiful Joe'' garnered a number of awards and nominations from various magazines, popular gaming websites, and [[List of video game awards|video game award]] programs. ''IGN'' named ''Viewtiful Joe'' "GameCube Game of the Year" and "Best Action Game of 2003".<ref>{{cite web|title=IGN.com presents The Best of 2003 |url=http://bestof2003.ign.com/gcn_goty.html |publisher=IGN |access-date=2009-02-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040612195606/http://bestof2003.ign.com/gcn_goty.html |archive-date=12 June 2004 }}</ref> At ''[[GameSpot]]''{{'}}s Best of 2003, the game was nominated for "Best Artistic Achievement in a Game", "Coolest New Character", "Best GameCube Game", "Readers' Choice Best GameCube Action Game", and "Readers' Choice GameCube Game of the Year".<ref>{{cite web | title=Best Artistic Achievement in a Game | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day2_15.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203192047/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day2_15.html | archive-date=3 December 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Coolest New Character | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day2_25.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040204003642/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day2_25.html | archive-date=4 February 2004 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Best GameCube Game | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day5_5.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203192632/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day5_5.html | archive-date=3 December 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Readers' Choice – Best GameCube Action Game | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day7_24.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070422204655/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day7_24.html | archive-date=22 April 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Readers' Choice – GameCube Game of the Year | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day7_28.html | publisher=GameSpot | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103193856/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2003/day7_28.html | archive-date=3 November 2012 }}</ref> It was also named the fourth-best GameCube game of 2003 by ''[[GameSpy]]'', winning the website's "Most Stylish" award for the year.<ref>{{cite web | title=GameSpy's GameCube Games of the Year | url=http://archive.gamespy.com/goty2003/gcn/index7.shtml | publisher=GameSpy | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219201304/http://archive.gamespy.com/goty2003/gcn/index7.shtml | archive-date=19 December 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=GCN Special Awards | url=http://archive.gamespy.com/goty2003/gcn/index11.shtml | publisher=GameSpy | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121070156/http://archive.gamespy.com/goty2003/gcn/index11.shtml | archive-date=21 January 2012 }}</ref> ''Viewtiful Joe'' won "Most Innovative Game Design" in ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' magazine's 2003 Player's Choice Awards.<ref>{{cite magazine|date=June 2004 |title=Nintendo Power Awards |magazine=Nintendo Power |issue=180 | page=94 }}</ref> It won "GameCube Game of the Year" awards for 2003 from both ''[[USA Today]]'' and ''[[GMR (magazine)|GMR]]''.<ref>{{cite web |author= |date=10 December 2003 |title=USA Today Likes Joe |url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/445/445667p1.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080717035925/http://cube.ign.com/articles/445/445667p1.html |archive-date=17 July 2008 |access-date=2009-02-16 |publisher=IGN}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=The Most Radical Games of 2003 |url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3122489 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716035925/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3122489 |archive-date=2012-07-16 |access-date=2009-11-21 |publisher=[[1UP.com]]}}</ref> The game was nominated by the [[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]] for "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Action Game of the Year|Console Platform Action/Adventure Game of the Year]]" in [[7th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards|2004]] and was nominated for three [[British Academy of Film and Television Arts#British Academy Video Games Awards|British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA)]] Awards including "Best Design", "Best Intro/Animation", and "Best GameCube Game".<ref>{{cite web |author=Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences |title=2004 7th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards |url=http://www.interactive.org/awards/2004_7th_awards.asp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110905072830/http://www.interactive.org/awards/2004_7th_awards.asp |archive-date=5 September 2011 |access-date=2009-02-17 |publisher=[[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/bafta-nominations-for-viewtiful-joe-6081740|title=BAFTA nominations for ''Viewtiful Joe''|author=Calvert, Justin|date=11 November 2003|website=Gamespot.com|publisher=GameSpot|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103200926/http://www.gamespot.com/news/bafta-nominations-for-viewtiful-joe-6081740|archive-date=3 November 2012|access-date=2009-02-18}}</ref> The game won "Unsung Hero Game of the Year" at the 2003 [[Golden Joystick Award]]s and "Best New Franchise" at the 2004 ''[[G-Phoria]]'' awards. Finally, it was recognized at the 4th Annual [[Game Developers Choice Awards]] as one of three "Game Innovation Spotlights".<ref>{{cite web | date=23 November 2003 | title=Golden Joystick Awards 2003 – winners revealed! | url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=99006 | publisher=Computer and Video Games | access-date=2009-02-16 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122115857/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=99006 | archive-date=22 January 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Chickytown | date=4 August 2004 | title=The Winners Are... | url=http://g4tv.com/g4archives/features/47791/The-Winners-Are.html | publisher=[[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4TV]] | access-date=2009-02-21 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110807062704/http://www.g4tv.com/g4archives/features/47791/The-Winners-Are.html | archive-date=7 August 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Game Developer Choice Awards Archive: 4th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards |url=http://www.gamechoiceawards.com/archive/gdca_4th.htm |publisher=[[Game Developers Choice Awards]] |access-date=2009-02-18 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090208093503/http://gamechoiceawards.com/archive/gdca_4th.htm |archive-date=8 February 2009 }}</ref>

''Viewtiful Joe'' has been included in a number of "best games" lists in the years following its release. It was rated the 27th best game made on a Nintendo system in ''Nintendo Power''{{'}}s "Top 200 Games" list in February 2006 and the 10th best game on the GameCube in its August 2008 issue reflecting on the top 20 games for each system.<ref>{{cite magazine|date=February 2006 |title=NP Top 200 |magazine=Nintendo Power |issue=200 |pages=58–66 }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|date=August 2008 |title=NP Best of The Best |magazine=Nintendo Power |issue=231|pages=70–78 }}</ref> Both ''GameSpy'' and the G4 television program ''[[X-Play]]'' named ''Viewtiful Joe'' the ninth best game of all time for the GameCube.<ref>{{cite web | author=GameSpy staff | date=9 August 2005 | title=Top 25 GameCube Games of All-Time | url=http://cube.gamespy.com/articles/639/639689p18.html | publisher=GameSpy | access-date=2009-02-24 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090303185828/http://cube.gamespy.com/articles/639/639689p18.html | archive-date=3 March 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite episode |title=The Best and Worst of GameCube |url=http://g4tv.com/videos/11990/Best-GameCube-Games-Ever-10-8/ |series=X-Play |series-link=X-Play |network=[[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4]] |airdate=28 June 2006 |number=6072 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130309234313/http://www.g4tv.com/videos/11990/best-gamecube-games-ever-10-8/ |archive-date=9 March 2013}}</ref> In 2007, ''Viewtiful Joe'' was named the 17th best GameCube game of all time in ''IGN''{{'}}s feature reflecting on the system's long lifespan.<ref>{{cite web |date=16 March 2007 |url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/772/772300p2.html |title=The Top 25 GameCube Games of All Time |publisher=IGN |access-date=2007-03-18 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070316101729/http://cube.ign.com/articles/772/772300p2.html |archive-date=16 March 2007 }}</ref> Later in 2007, ''[[ScrewAttack]]'' listed the game at seventh on their [[ScrewAttack's Top 10|Top 10 GameCube Games of All Time]].<ref>{{cite web |date=10 April 2007 |title=ScrewAttacks GameCube Farewell – Top Ten GameCube Games |url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/screwattacks-gamecube-screwattack/18469 |series=''[[ScrewAttack's Top 10]]'' |publisher=[[GameTrailers]] |access-date=2009-02-22 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090522184125/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/screwattacks-gamecube-screwattack/18469 |archive-date=22 May 2009 }}</ref>

''Viewtiful Joe'' was successful enough to establish a franchise, and a few other related media titles were released. ''Viewtiful Joe'' was followed by a direct sequel titled ''[[Viewtiful Joe 2]]''—released for both the GameCube and PlayStation 2—and two spinoffs: ''[[Viewtiful Joe: Red Hot Rumble]]'' for the [[PlayStation Portable|PSP]] and GameCube and ''[[Viewtiful Joe: Double Trouble!]]'' for the [[Nintendo DS]].<ref>{{cite web | author=GameSpy staff | date=21 April 2004 | title=''Viewtiful Joe 2'' Announced (PS2) | url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/viewtiful-joe-2/508130p1.html | publisher=GameSpy | access-date=2009-02-21 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081013204351/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/viewtiful-joe-2/508130p1.html | archive-date=13 October 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Bloodworth, Daniel | date=8 November 2005 | title=Two ''Viewtiful Joe'' Titles Ship | url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=10929 | publisher=Nintendo World Report | access-date=2009-02-21}}</ref> An [[anime]] [[Viewtiful Joe (TV series)|adaption of the game]] was produced by [[Group TAC]], airing on the Japanese television station [[TV Tokyo]] beginning in 2004 and being licensed for US distribution by [[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]] in 2005.<ref>{{cite web | author=Cole, Michael | date=1 September 2004 | title=Television is Viewtiful | url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=9862 | publisher=Nintendo World Report | access-date=2009-02-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Baisley, Sarah | date=21 July 2005 | title=''Viewtiful Joe'' Comes To Kids' WB! This Fall | url=http://www.awn.com/news/television/viewtiful-joe-comes-kids-wb-fall | publisher=AWN | access-date=2009-02-21 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414092332/http://www.awn.com/news/television/viewtiful-joe-comes-kids-wb-fall | archive-date=14 April 2010 }}</ref> A set of ''Viewtiful Joe'' trading figures was released by [[Agatsuma Entertainment]] in October 2005, while a series of action figures made by Jazwares was released in July 2006.<ref>{{cite web | title=주문 Viewtiful Joe Trading Figure | url=http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-92-49-kr-70-1210.html | publisher=[[Play-Asia]] | access-date=2009-10-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615173200/http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-92-49-kr-70-1210.html | archive-date=15 June 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Cochran, Jay | date=10 June 2006 | title=Viewtiful Joe Series 1 Figures From Jazwares Inc. | url=http://toynewsi.com/news.php?catid=141&itemid=9627 | publisher=ToysNewsi.com | access-date=2009-03-08 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717082746/http://toynewsi.com/news.php?catid=141&itemid=9627 | archive-date=17 July 2011 }}</ref> [[V Jump]] published a manga series of Viewtiful Joe from November 2004.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/vj/vj_comics/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150814075647/http://www.capcom.co.jp/vj/vj_comics/index.html|archive-date=14 August 2015|title=株式会社カプコン：Capcom World Japan}}</ref>

In 2004, Capcom registered the domain name ViewtifulJoe3.com, suggesting another sequel.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wade |first=Kenneth Kyle |date=30 July 2004 |title=More Capcom Sequels on the way? |url=http://www.n-sider.com/contentview.php?contentid=1021 |publisher=N-Sider |access-date=2008-08-30 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611040537/http://www.n-sider.com/contentview.php?contentid=1021 |archive-date=11 June 2011 }}</ref> Shortly thereafter, the website was devoid of content. In January 2006, Atsushi Inaba expressed interest in developing a title in the series for the [[Wii]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Klepek |first=Patrick |date=23 January 2006 |title=Viewtiful Joe Creator Keen on Revolution |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3147337 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723081046/http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3147337 |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 July 2012 |publisher=1UP.com |access-date=2009-01-05 }}</ref> However, as none of Clover Studio's games proved to be an outstanding financial success, Capcom officially dissolved the subsidiary in March 2007 after the release of its final two games, ''[[Ōkami]]'' and ''[[God Hand]]''. Its key members left to form a new company called [[PlatinumGames]].<ref>{{cite web | author=Jenkins, David | date=12 October 2006 | title=Capcom To Dissolve Clover Studio | url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/capcom-to-dissolve-clover-studio | publisher=Gamasutra | access-date=2009-02-21 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605161804/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=11229 | archive-date=5 June 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Boyer, Brandon | date=27 September 2007 | title=Seeds To Become Platinum Games | url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/seeds-to-become-platinum-games | publisher=Gamasutra | access-date=2009-02-21 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071007111340/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=15657 | archive-date=7 October 2007 }}</ref> Capcom producer [[Jun Takeuchi]] commented at the 2009 [[San Diego Comic-Con]] that there have been currently no plans to continue with the series,<ref>{{cite web | author=Hatfield, Daemon | date=23 July 2009 | title=SDCC 09: ''Viewtiful Joe 3'' Not in View | url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/100/1006951p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=2009-07-23 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090727055056/http://ds.ign.com/articles/100/1006951p1.html | archive-date=27 July 2009 }}</ref> although Viewtiful Joe has appeared as a playable character in Capcom's 2008 Wii [[fighting game]] ''[[Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All Stars]]'' and is a playable character in ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds]]'' and ''[[Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]'' for the [[PlayStation 3]] and [[Xbox 360]].<ref>{{cite magazine | author=Snow, Jean | date=4 November 2008 | title=Viewtiful Joe Joins Tatsunoko vs. Capcom | url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2008/11/viewtiful-joe-e/ | magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] | access-date=2009-02-17 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091028142732/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2008/11/viewtiful-joe-e/ | archive-date=28 October 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Quillen, Dustin | date=18 August 2010 | title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Adds Viewtiful Joe, Dormammu | url=http://www.1up.com/news/marvel-capcom-3-adds-viewtiful | publisher=1UP.com | access-date=2010-08-18 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120620050733/http://www.1up.com/news/marvel-capcom-3-adds-viewtiful | archive-date=20 June 2012 }}</ref>

However, in 2012, PlatinumGames announced the development of ''[[The Wonderful 101]]'', then known as ''Project P-100''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Thomas|first=Lucas M.|title=E3 2012: Nintendo Announces "Project P-100" for Wii U|url=http://ca.ign.com/articles/2012/06/05/e3-2012-nintendo-announces-project-p-100-for-wii-u|work=IGN|date=5 June 2012 |access-date=23 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150727084703/http://ca.ign.com/articles/2012/06/05/e3-2012-nintendo-announces-project-p-100-for-wii-u|archive-date=27 July 2015}}</ref> This was the first project that reunited Kamiya and Inaba as director and producer on a title since the development of the ''Viewtiful Joe'' series. Furthermore, ''The Wonderful 101'' uses the same [[tokusatsu]] thematics of the ''Viewtiful Joe'' series, and the two share a similar art style albeit different gameplay. This has led fans to hail ''The Wonderful 101'' as a spiritual successor of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Salter|first=Ben|title=''The Wonderful 101'' trailer has a ''Viewtiful Joe'' vibe|url=http://mmgn.com/wiiu/news--the-wonderful-101-trailer-has-a-viewtiful-joe|work=MMGN|access-date=23 July 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140308071645/http://mmgn.com/wiiu/news--the-wonderful-101-trailer-has-a-viewtiful-joe|archive-date=8 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Miller|first=Holden|title=New ''The Wonderful 101 Trailer'' Shows Off Giant Robots, Waterslides|url=http://kotaku.com/5978307/new-the-wonderful-101-trailer-shows-off-giant-robots-waterslides|work=Kotaku|date=23 January 2013 |access-date=23 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729000816/http://kotaku.com/5978307/new-the-wonderful-101-trailer-shows-off-giant-robots-waterslides|archive-date=29 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Mount|first=Reuben|title=''The Wonderful 101'': The First Forgotten Wii U Title?|url=http://www.zeldainformer.com/news/the-wonderful-101-the-first-forgotten-wii-u-title|work=ZI.com|date=14 September 2012|access-date=23 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402133601/http://www.zeldainformer.com/news/the-wonderful-101-the-first-forgotten-wii-u-title|archive-date=2 April 2015}}</ref> The franchise would also later be featured in [[Archie Comics]]' ''Worlds Unite'' crossover with several other [[Capcom]] and [[Sega]] series, taking place in the ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (comics)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' and ''[[Mega Man (Archie Comics)|Mega Man]]'' comics.<ref>{{cite web |last=Schedeen |first=Jesse |date=2015-02-26 |title=Capcom and Sega Join Forces for Worlds Unite Comic Book Crossover |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2015/02/23/capcom-and-sega-join-forces-for-worlds-unite-comic-book-crossover |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223230253/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/02/23/capcom-and-sega-join-forces-for-worlds-unite-comic-book-crossover |archive-date=23 February 2015 |access-date=2016-10-19 |website=IGN}}</ref>

In ''[[Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition]]'', the fighter Rashid has an outfit based on Viewtiful Joe. It is unlocked through completing four extra battles.

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Portal|Japan|Video games}}
*{{Official website|http://www.capcom.com/vj/}}
*{{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20051013055347/http://www.capcom.co.jp:80/vj/index.html}} {{in lang|ja}}
*{{mobygames|/viewtiful-joe}}

{{Viewtiful Joe}}
{{Hideki Kamiya}}
{{Clover Studio}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Viewtiful Joe (Video Game)}}
[[Category:2003 video games]]
[[Category:3D beat 'em ups]]
[[Category:Action games]]
[[Category:Capcom beat 'em ups]]
[[Category:Capcom games]]
[[Category:Clover Studio games]]
[[Category:GameCube games]]
[[Category:Golden Joystick Award winners]]
[[Category:PlayStation 2 games]]
[[Category:Platformers]]
[[Category:Side-scrolling beat 'em ups]]
[[Category:Single-player video games]]
[[Category:Superhero video games]]
[[Category:Video games developed in Japan]]
[[Category:Video games with 2.5D graphics]]
[[Category:Video games directed by Hideki Kamiya]]
[[Category:Video games with cel-shaded animation]]
[[Category:Video games with time manipulation]]
[[Category:Viewtiful Joe]]