TSB Japan LLC, together with The Sandbox, has partnered with Minto Co., Ltd. and TSUBASA Co., Ltd. to introduce a unique “Captain Tsubasa” avatar collection in the blockchain-powered gaming metaverse, “The Sandbox”. This collaboration intends to amplify the global influence of “Captain Tsubasa”, a widely recognized manga and animation that has been a driving force behind the worldwide growth of soccer.
Register here for the upcoming Captain Tsubasa Avatar collection on The Sandbox.
The anime adaptations of the Captain Tsubasa series have not only entertained audiences but have significantly shaped the careers and aspirations of numerous individuals. Remarkably, this cherished series has emerged as a seminal influence in the lives of several eminent professional footballers. These athletes have candidly shared their deep-seated admiration for the series, crediting it as a fundamental inspiration that fueled their journey to pursue careers in football. This illustrates the profound and enduring impact that storytelling through anime can have, transcending mere entertainment to mold passions and craft futures in the sport’s arena.
About “Captain Tsubasa”
This acclaimed soccer manga debuted in the ‘Weekly Shonen Jump’ in 1981, spotlighting the character Tsubasa Ozora and his belief that “the ball is your friend”. The series has been pivotal in popularizing soccer globally, influencing many international players. The serialization continues in the “Captain Tsubasa Magazine”, with the anime series witnessing a fresh broadcast in 2018.
Many professional footballers, especially those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, have cited “Captain Tsubasa” as an inspiration. Here are some of them:
- Fernando Torres: The Spanish striker has mentioned several times that watching “Captain Tsubasa” as a child fueled his passion for football.
- Zinedine Zidane: The legendary French footballer and coach was reportedly a fan of the series, and it partly inspired him to pursue a career in football.
- Lionel Messi: The Argentine forward, regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, has reportedly cited the series as an early inspiration in his football career.
- Alessandro Del Piero: This Italian legend has also acknowledged the influence “Captain Tsubasa” had on him during his early years.
- Ángel Di María: Another Argentine football star who has acknowledged the influence of “Captain Tsubasa” in his decision to pursue football.
- Alexis Sánchez: The Chilean footballer mentioned that the anime series encouraged him to chase his dream of becoming a professional football player.
Tsubasa Team Collection: Immersive Soccer Experience in the Virtual World
The upcoming “Tsubasa Team Collection” features 2060 uniquely designed avatars donned in the iconic Nankatsu Junior High School and Toho Gakuen Junior High School uniforms, coupled with exclusive goalkeeper avatars specific to this assortment. This innovative initiative promises a dynamic soccer-themed experience, wherein the avatars exhibit custom animations reflecting the essence of the sport. Avatar owners will be able to partake not only in the immersive gaming scenario set to unfold in “Captain Tsubasa LAND” but also in various other gaming experiences that The Sandbox metaverse harbors.
Availability & Access
Interested individuals can register for the arrow list (granting the privilege of early purchase) from 4:00 am, September 6 to 4:00 pm, September 11, 2023, through the official Heymint page. Following this, the Arrow List Mint will be operational from September 12, 11:00 pm to September 13, 11:00 pm, preceding the public mint which begins on September 13, 11:00 pm. The avatars’ designs will be unveiled on September 19, 11:00 pm. (All times in JST).
Special Events & Rewards
The Sandbox has scheduled special multiplayer experiences themed around “Captain Tsubasa” from September 27 to November 1, 2023, which are free to access and immerse players into a soccer match narrative infused with animated characters and engaging quests. Utilizing the avatars from the Tsubasa Team Collection is expected to enhance the immersion level.
Additional Perks
The avatar collection unlocks an exclusive opportunity for holders to participate in “Captain Tsubasa”-themed experiences, complete quests, and win rewards from a 100k SAND prize pool.
About The Sandbox
The Sandbox, spearheaded by CEO Arthur Madrid, is a Web3 gaming platform enabling users to craft content on a virtual territory with distinct tools, foster communities, and generate revenue. It has already housed creative endeavors by globally renowned brands and personalities such as Steve Aoki, Care Bears, and Paris Hilton.
