Konnichiwa minna-san (everyone) 👋
One of the things that made the Nippon Marathon so unforgettable was its wonderfully weird cast of contestants. They didn’t just steal your hearts, they sometimes stole your sanity too!
That’s why for Daijoubu, we had to bring the original four back. After all, can you even call it the Nippon Marathon without them?
Whether you’re meeting them for the first time or catching up with old favourites, let’s (re)introduce this eccentric cast, complete with updated quirks, likes, and dislikes to make them stranger (and funnier) than ever.
We’ll also be sharing concept art for brand-new contestants during Early Access. But before the newcomers hit the track, let’s give a big DAIJOUBU to the OG MVPs!
👑 The OG MVPs Return
Contestant Name | J DARWIN |
|---|---|
Height | 173cm |
Eye Colour | Red |
Blood Type | O |
Likes | Following Instructions, Tea soaked eggs |
Dislikes | Awkward social situations |
Personality | A loveable oddball who always seems two steps behind but somehow stumbles into heroics when it matters. |
Since leaving his Grandad’s Lobster Farm to enter the Nippon Marathon, J DARWIN has evolved (pun intended) from country bumpkin to would-be world explorer. The only catch? He’ll only set out if he’s got a trusty “Baka Guide to…” to follow—otherwise, adventure feels a bit too scary.
He may have left farm life behind, but one thing’s certain: the lobster onesie stays on. Always.
Contestant Name | Elizabeth Nishibori |
|---|---|
Height | 171cm |
Eye Colour | Blue |
Blood Type | A |
Likes | Equality, Pirate themed capsule toys |
Dislikes | Injustice, butter popcorn |
Personality | A stubborn marine biologist who tackles every challenge like a salmon swimming upstream |
Elizabeth Nishibori never takes “no” for an answer—especially when it involves Narwhals. She shut down her father’s evil business empire just to open a Narwhal Sanctuary, proving she’s as relentless as she is passionate. Now, nothing stands in her way as she sets out to save all marine life… seriously, try saying no and see what happens.
One more thing: never, ever call her a unicorn. Nishibori is not a unicorn. She’s a Narwhal. Got it? Good.
Contestant Name | Zenbei |
|---|---|
Height | 172cm |
Eye Colour | Brown |
Blood Type | AB |
Likes | Morning walks in the rain |
Dislikes | Evening walks in the rain |
Personality | A cheerful maid café worker by day, champion racer by… also day, Zenbei unites both sides to be a sensei in everything he does. |
Ever since childhood, Zenbei’s been like two people stuck in one body. The Nippon Marathon taught him how to get them working together, finally finding balance and a sense of self. Now he’s back at the maid café, ready for a zen and peaceful life… and to make you the most kawaii-matcha-latte ever!
Zenbei might have two personalities, but somehow he still manages to sneak the last slice of strawberry cake without anyone noticing.
Contestant Name | Snuguru Maestro |
|---|---|
Height | 171cm |
Eye Colour | Brown |
Blood Type | B |
Likes | Fire hydrants, Pushing over mascots |
Dislikes | Postmen, Home Alone |
Personality | A social butterfly with a nose for love. Sharp-minded, charming, and a little chaotic, he’s the ultimate matchmaker. |
Snuguru Maestro has always relied on his keen sense of smell to navigate the world—but he discovered it works just as well for matchmaking. Believing no one should be alone, he entered the Nippon Marathon to fund his dating agency. Now, he spends his time sniffing out everyone’s perfect match… as long as they’re not postmen.
Snuguru never takes off his “I ❤️ Joe” scarf… is he still looking for Joe, or helping the world find theirs?
🌟 Say Hello to Your New Favourites
It’s still early days, but we’re excited to share a sneak peek at a few of these newcomers with some exclusive concept art.
💜 Join the Discord for more
Got ideas for new characters, crazy items, or just want to gush about the OG 4? Join us on Discord and share your thoughts with the Nippon Marathon community — we’d love to hear from you! 💬✨
🔜 Coming Up Next: What is DAIJOUBU?
Let’s uncover the meaning of DAIJOUBU and how it perfectly captures the fun, chaotic spirit of Nippon Marathon 2 — and why it even made it onto the title of the game!
So until next time…
Stay Daijoubu,
Wedy Jones