Nintendo Pocket Football Club
Image: Nintendo

For the month before the 3DS and Wii U eShops close for new purchases on 27th March, each day we're going to highlight a specific eShop game for one of those consoles and give a short pitch as to why we think it deserves your love and attention — before it's too late. The chance to add these to your library will be gone for good soon and, for one reason or another, these eShop-exclusives are close to our hearts.

Today, Liam highlights one of the best football sims on a Nintendo platform, and one that was exclusive to PAL territories, unfortunately...

So, what's it called?

Nintendo Pocket Football Club, a sequel to the Japan-only 2006 title Calcio Bit for the Game Boy Advance.

We've got a review of this 3DS release dating back to 2014. We loved it then, and we still think it's pretty great in 2023.

Who made it?

Paritybit (known best for the Derby Stallion games in Japan and CalcioBit) made it, and Nintendo published it.

What's the premise?

It's like football manager but easier, cuter and just as addictive. Assemble a team, train 'em up, and win the league.

Why should you play it?

Well, this one is a region exclusive to PAL territories — unfortunately, it's not available in the US or North America. Online functionality was retired back in 2019, too.

Still, if you're a soccer fan that happens to be located in one of the regions it's available in, be sure to check it out before it's gone. It really is very addictive, and a great way to enact your wildest Welcome to Wrexham-style fantasies of managing a club and steering them up the league table. Albeit with more match tactics and fewer Deadpool gags.

How much is it?

£13.49 / €14,99, which might seem a bit steep but there are hours of fun to be had — so it's worth every penny.

We'll be back soon with another 3DS or Wii U eShop recommendation as part of this 'Countdown' series. Let us know below if you've already got this in your collection and share your thoughts.