Steel Battalion

"Worth every cent"

First of all, I would like to stress that this game is completely worth the $200 price tag! Lets break it down:

Gameplay 10/10 : Yes, I’m listing gameplay first before graphics because that’s what games are all about, people! And the gameplay in Steel Battalion is INCREDIBLE!!! Obviously, the unique gameplay is made possible by the giant controller deck that is included with the game (hence the large pricetag). The fully constructed mech dashboard features approximately 40 buttons, two joysticks, a floor unit with three footpedals, blinking lights, and a heavy dosage of just all-around coolness. The controller itself is of pretty solid construction, and doesn’t feel like it will be breaking anytime soon. Just in case, the makers do include a generous 90 day warranty with each purchase. Originally, I thought that this whole controller thing was just a big gimmick, but now that I finally get to use it, it really is something that I am proud to have purchased. This game with a standard Xbox controller would have definately felt like it was lacking something, even though the game itself is solid. The missions feel very realistic, well thought out, and the terrain is scultped with strategy in mind. The game stands strong on its own, but it’s the monster controller that really adds the icing to the cake.

Graphics 8/10 : Steel Battalion takes the unique approach of having all the action be viewed on a screen inside the cockpit fom a video feed from an external camera. Because of this, the picture quality is slightly purposely degraded, and the occasional static is not uncommon. Most of the graphics have a slightly unpolished look to them, but between the excuse that it’s supposed to be a video feed and ammount of ass this game kicks, it’s enough to make you overlook the spots in the graphics that need work.

Story 8/10 : Honestly, as I have not completed the game yet, I cannot give a full report as to this aspect of the game. So far, the plot seems to be a generic war effort against an aggressive nation that has gained control of an island, and your forces are there to liberate it. It has the same feel (and interestingly the same graphic style) as Front Mission 3. Most of us are here for the unique gameplay anyways, not the story.

Sound: 10/10 : Ok, who headed up the sound the department for this game? Cause I really think it was the Saving Private Ryan team. The effects are awesome! And with a 5.1 setup, it’s pure bliss. Explosions all around you, enemy fire, grating metal - everything is dead on. I really think that besides the controller, this is the strongest point of this game. Sound this good in a game doesn’t come around often, and Steel Battalion is definately on par with the recent Medal of Honor games in terms of quality sound production.

Rent or Buy? : Well, I doubt any store is renting this, so this is a must buy. Originally, this was announced as available by reservation only, but some retailers have already listed a shipping date for a second batch. Check the stores around you, because Steel Battalion is a once in a lifetime experience that no hardcore gamer should pass up!

Overall: 10/10

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 11/22/02, Updated 11/22/02