Unveiling a Hidden Gem: A Personal Journey through “1 on 1” for PlayStation One

Steven The Gothic Nerd
8 min readMay 24, 2023

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Box art for 1 on 1 Image Source: GiantBomb

As an avid gamer with a passion for exploring the vast landscape of video games, I recently stumbled upon a hidden gem that has taken my gaming experience to new heights. Developed by Jorudan for the PlayStation One, “1 on 1” has captured my heart with its engrossing gameplay, remarkable mechanics, visually stunning graphics, and intuitive controls. Join me as I embark on a personal journey of discovery, uncovering the history, intricacies, and enduring charm of “1 on 1.”

Unearthing the Rich History: The Evolution of “1 on 1”:

Takehiko Inoue Image Source: slamdunk.fandom

The inception of “1 on 1” can be attributed, in part, to the creative genius of Takehiko Inoue, a renowned manga artist celebrated for his masterful work in the sports genre. Inoue’s passion for basketball and his remarkable storytelling skills served as the foundation upon which “1 on 1” was built. As an ardent basketball enthusiast, Inoue sought to channel his love for the sport into a gaming experience that would captivate players and immerse them in the thrilling world of one-on-one basketball.

With Inoue’s artistic vision and Jorudan’s technical expertise, “1 on 1” was brought to life. Jorudan’s development team collaborated closely with Inoue, translating his distinctive art style and basketball knowledge into the game’s aesthetics and mechanics.

The Influence of Takehiko Inoue: A Creative Collaboration:

Takehiko Inoue’s involvement in “1 on 1” extended beyond mere inspiration. His artistic prowess and deep understanding of basketball served as the guiding force behind the game’s visual design and narrative elements. Drawing from his extensive experience in creating captivating sports manga, Inoue infused the game with a rich and immersive story that unfolded through the gameplay itself.

Shota vs Laheesha loading screen Image Source: MobyGames

Through his collaboration with Jorudan’s development team, Inoue ensured that the game captured the essence of basketball in both its visual presentation and gameplay mechanics. The player models were meticulously crafted, showcasing Inoue’s signature attention to detail and his ability to capture the intensity and emotions of basketball players in action. The dynamic animations brought the characters to life, mirroring Inoue’s mastery of depicting movement and athleticism.

Kirin Image Source: MobyGames

Furthermore, Inoue’s influence extended to the game’s narrative, adding depth and context to the one-on-one battles. Through carefully crafted dialogue and character interactions, players were given glimpses into the motivations and struggles of the virtual athletes, creating a sense of investment and emotional connection.

Inoue’s collaboration with Jorudan resulted in a seamless fusion of artistry and gameplay, elevating “1 on 1” beyond a mere sports game and transforming it into a storytelling experience that resonated with players.

A Masterpiece Shaped by Collaboration:

The history of “1 on 1” is a testament to the power of collaboration between visionary creators and talented developers. Takehiko Inoue’s involvement infused the game with his artistic genius, elevating it to a level that transcended traditional sports games. Jorudan’s technical expertise and dedication to excellence brought Inoue’s vision to life, creating a gaming experience that seamlessly combined stunning visuals, immersive storytelling, and exhilarating gameplay.

“1 on 1” stands as a testament to the transformative impact that collaborative efforts can have on the gaming industry. It represents a convergence of artistic expression, technical innovation, and a shared passion for basketball. Through the collaboration between Takehiko Inoue and Jorudan, “1 on 1” emerged as a masterpiece that continues to captivate players and leave an indelible mark on the gaming landscape.
The game’s history serves as a reminder of the profound influence that individuals like Takehiko Inoue can have on the medium of video games.

The Thrill of One-on-One: Mastering the Mechanics:

Furin slam dunks for 2 points Image Source: MobyGames

“1 on 1” places players in the heart-pounding realm of intense one-on-one basketball. The game presents an array of modes and options, enabling players to test their skills against computer-controlled opponents or engage in exhilarating head-to-head matches with friends. The mechanics of the game require precision, strategic decision-making, and expert control over player movements. From dribbling and shooting to defensive maneuvers, every action demands finesse, creating a captivating gameplay experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.

What sets “1 on 1” apart from conventional basketball games is its innovative control system that seamlessly combines elements of a fighting game with the dynamics of a basketball match. This fusion of controls provides players with an unparalleled level of command over their character’s movements, enabling them to execute intricate maneuvers and unleash a diverse range of offensive and defensive techniques.

In “1 on 1,” achieving a successful dribble or executing a well-timed shot demands not only mastery of precise timing and button combinations but also a deep understanding of player positioning and anticipation. Similar to the mechanics of a fighting game, players must carefully observe their opponent’s actions, anticipate their next moves, and swiftly respond with accurate button inputs to outmaneuver and outscore their adversaries.
The game’s control scheme empowers players to perform eye-catching moves such as crossovers, spin moves, and powerful dunks, all effortlessly executed through intuitive button presses and joystick movements. The seamless integration of these controls with the fast-paced basketball gameplay creates an immersive experience where players feel fully in control of the on-court action.

Immersive Gameplay Modes: Unleashing the Competitive Spirit

Brown Vs Luka Image Source: GiantBomb

“1 on 1” offers a variety of engaging game modes that keep players hooked and eager for more. One of the standout modes is the single-player campaign, where players embark on a challenging journey to become the ultimate basketball champion. This mode takes players through a series of increasingly difficult matches against computer-controlled opponents, testing their skills and strategic thinking. Each victory brings a sense of accomplishment and progression, unlocking new challenges and showcasing the game’s depth. The campaign mode’s compelling narrative (You will have to use google lens or something similar to translate) and progression system add an extra layer of immersion, immersing players in the pursuit of basketball greatness.

In addition to the captivating single-player campaign, “1 on 1” also excels in its multiplayer offerings. The game’s head-to-head mode allows players to compete against friends or fellow enthusiasts in exhilarating one-on-one matchups. The competitive nature of these matches brings out the best in players as they strategize, react, and showcase their skills in real time. The thrill of outmaneuvering a human opponent, anticipating their moves, and executing precise maneuvers creates a level of excitement that is hard to replicate. Whether engaging in friendly competitions or heated rivalries, the multiplayer mode of “1 on 1” fosters a sense of camaraderie and intense competition, making it an absolute blast to play with friends.

These game modes not only provide hours of entertainment but also offer unique experiences that cater to different playstyles and preferences. The single-player campaign immerses players in a compelling narrative, while the multiplayer mode ignites the competitive spirit and fosters memorable social interactions. Together, these modes make “1 on 1” an incredibly fun and versatile game that keeps players engaged and coming back for more.

Diversifying the Experience: Engaging Mini-Game

In addition to its main game modes, “1 on 1” features a collection of entertaining mini-games that provide a delightful diversion from intense basketball matches. These mini-games inject a dose of variety and lightheartedness into the gameplay experience, offering players a chance to unwind and explore different challenges within the game.

One notable mini-game in “1 on 1” is the Dunk Contest, where players can showcase their acrobatic skills and creativity in a thrilling slam dunk competition. This mode allows players to control their character’s movements and perform jaw-dropping dunks with precise timing and button combinations. The Dunk Contest challenges players to come up with unique and stylish dunks to impress the judges and earn the highest scores. It’s an exhilarating experience that rewards creativity and adds a touch of spectacle to the gameplay.

Kirin playing 3 Point Shootout Image Source: MobyGames

Another enjoyable mini-game is the Three-Point Shootout, where players can test their shooting accuracy and aim for the highest score within a limited time. This mode emphasizes precision and quick reflexes as players aim to sink as many three-point shots as possible from different spots on the court. The competitive nature of the Three-Point Shootout makes it a thrilling experience, pushing players to hone their shooting skills and aim for the top spot on the leaderboard.

These mini-games not only provide a fun diversion from the main gameplay but also offer opportunities for players to refine their skills in specific aspects of basketball. They add an extra layer of challenge and replayability to “1 on 1,” ensuring that players have a well-rounded and enjoyable gaming experience beyond the core gameplay modes.

A Visual Spectacle: Embracing Graphics That Transcend Time:

Introducing Brown (and his squirrel) Image Source: MobyGames

Despite the technological limitations of the PlayStation One era, “1 on 1” delivered a visual spectacle. With the creative genius of Takehiko Inoue’s art, the game’s detailed player models, animations, and vibrant court environments combine to create a visually stunning experience. Each court exudes its unique atmosphere, from the gritty urban settings to the polished wooden floors of professional arenas. Though the graphics may appear modest by modern standards, they embody the dedication of Jorudan to push the boundaries of visual fidelity during that era, reminding us of the technological marvels of the time.

A Legacy Rekindled: Celebrating the Enduring Fandom:

While “1 on 1” may have slipped under the radar of mainstream recognition, it has cultivated a dedicated and passionate fanbase that cherishes its unique gameplay and nostalgic appeal. The game holds a special place in the hearts of those who have had the privilege of experiencing its competitive battles, gravity-defying dunks, and nail-biting last-minute shots.

As I reflect on my journey through the world of gaming, discovering “1 on 1” has been nothing short of a revelation. Jorudan’s dedication to creating an immersive and exhilarating basketball experience, complemented by the game’s remarkable mechanics, stunning visuals, and seamless controls, has made “1 on 1” a treasured addition to my gaming library. Its rich history, engaging gameplay, and enduring fandom have rekindled my appreciation for the artistry and innovation that lie within the realm of video games. As I continue to explore the vast expanse of gaming, I am grateful for the opportunity to have discovered the hidden brilliance of “1 on 1” and eagerly await the surprises that await me on future gaming adventures.

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Steven The Gothic Nerd

I write about all kinds of things but mainly independent game reviews, rumors around gaming, and retrospectives on older games and consoles. .