Armored Core 2: Another Age

"Somewhat good"

Let me start off by saying that I recommend you should play Armored Core 2 before playing this game. You can transfer your file from Armored Core 2 to this expansion game which is really cool. You can use your favorite AC from Armored Core 2 to have an easier time&better time playing Another Age.

Graphics:9 The graphics are still great as usual but I really don't notice much difference from Armored Core 2. The only thing I had noticed was the ACs looked ''cleaner'' and light shine off my AC. If you haven't played Armored Core 2, then I want to tell you that the graphics are great. No problem here.

Sound&Controls:8 Many people complain about the controls being complicated but actually, it is very easy. I really love the controls and I know that you will too, once you learn how to use it properly. Sound effects are great, explosion sound, voices, lasers, and missiles sound spectacular. The music is really horrible though. For me, I couldn't stand the music back in Armored Core 2. In this game, it is still horrible as ever.

Story:4 Very dull story. You are basically a Raven (I guess you could call outlaw) and you work for different companies and corporations. They give you briefings and pay you to do their missions. The story is what makes this game really sad. If this game had a better story, this game would be awesome.

Gameplay:10 This is the best mech game I had ever played, and it is very fun. Unfortuately, they took out the arena (I'm sorry to dissappoint you AC2 fans) but they added around 100 missions in this game. The missions get really hard and the AC you fight in missions are now much much harder and have their real strength in them. Some missions are really original (eliminate X, defend Y) and are dull, while other missions are breathtaking, brain-squeezingly exciting. Don't expect to win every mission because some missions will make you fight 2 ACs or maybe 3 at once! Also, the mail option is also gone (thank god) and new weapons are in this game. (some weapons are incredible!) You earn the weapons as you do missions, so I don't see why you still need a shop. Anyway, gameplay is great and is probably the best thing about this game.

Replayability:8 The only reason that I might want to start over is probably because I want to create more ACs. However, playing the missions over again can be fun.

Rent or Buy? Rent first, then if you like it, buy!

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 09/22/02, Updated 09/22/02