Front Mission 3
Written: Apr 21 '00 (Updated Jun 01 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Gameplay mechanics are superb
Cons: Graphics are shoddy
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| alyssa01's Full Review: Front Mission 3 for PlayStation 1 |
Overview: Giant robots, bristling with advanced weaponry and defense systems, step forward onto the battlefield in order to establish once and for all who is the better combatant. Armed with everything from heat-seeking missiles to brass knuckles, the robots, known as wanzers (or panzers if you've played the older versions of the game), contend for the upper hand in these battles for survival.
Gameplay Mechanics: Although the game is hailed as an RPG (role-playing game), I would not specifically term it as such. More of a strategy game than anything else, Front Mission 3 borrows from Final Fantasy Tactics a battle system complete with movement ratings, battle skills, and counterattacks. You choose the weapons with which to arm your wanzers, as well as the very parts that construct your battle machine. Keeping in mind a weight limit per wanzer, individual hit points per part, upgrade capabilities of each part and each weapon, as well as the need to add on more weaponry in order to keep up with the powerful opponents, this game defines intricate. Fortunately, clear, easy-to-understand menus coupled with detailed tutorials give the most inexperienced strategy gamer a firm leg-up into the world.
Storyline: You DO have some choices in the game, although they are few and far between. Several times, those choices simply involve a decision of the next locale for battle. Actions you take within battles are generally the extent of storyline control within the game. The actual story itself is very intriguing. Robust dialogue, realistic actions taken by the characters, clearly defined personalities... all of these things contribute to an overall excellent storyline. A few plot twists, some of which were predictable and some of which weren't, add some flavor to what otherwise might have been a fairly dry game.
Lastability: A nice combination of plot and action, Front Mission 3 keeps your interest. In addition to the fact that you can constantly upgrade and change your wanzer, you also gain experience points per weapon skill. Those two facets come together nicely to ensure that you won't have to worry about losing interest in your characters' development.
Miscellaneous: The graphics are poor, but that is due to a true 3D world that actually changes to your game. If you blow a hole in the street, that hole will remain for the duration of the battle. A neat lasting effect that really adds a lot to the game! The sound is decent, with some excellent battle music.
Rating: If you enjoyed any other sort of strategy game, give it a try. If, however, you are more in the mood for a role playing game, feel free to pass it up.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: alyssa01
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Member: Alyssa Reinhardt
Location: New York
Reviews written: 50
Trusted by: 24 members
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