Steel Battalion

"The ultimate controller teams with the ultimate mech simulator."

The Game:

You are a mech pilot who is forced into battle using the new generation of mechs. Your missions which number 20 range from clearing out all enemey forces to recon and establishing bases. Your controller makes this game so amazing every 40 of the buttons function. You will feel as never before what it might be like fighting with a mech. When you start you have the basic mechs and can work your way up to more advanced ones. Each mech has it's own weapon carrying ability and different characteristics ie speed, turning ability. The game's idea is to be as reallistic as possible right to the fact if you fail to hit eject upon destruction it is game over no game saves.

The Graphics:

The graphics are amazing the only problem at times is the the draw line where enemies suddenly appear however it isn't to the point where it interferes with the game itself. You are looking through the camera of your mech and as such you see the panels surrounding the camera view. Which limits the actual viewing area you should have at least a 27'' t.v. with this game. This game really must push the XBox to it's utmost potential.

The Gameplay:

What else can be said but using a 40 button 3 ft wide controller can make a game so unbelievable. Everything makes it feel as if you are travelling with a multi tonne mech. Each mission has it's challenges and weapons are not unlimited you will be reauired to request supplies where you need to clear an area so they can be air lifted to you. You can also request aid from your other mech allies if you find yourself in trouble. Every mission requires the start up of your mech where like an airplane you have a required protocol. The game is like no other and it shouldn't be with the price you pay.

The Controls:

It has 40 buttons two sticks steel foot pedals. Every button functions and needs to be remembered. It takes many plays to remember the lay out of this mammoth controller. This is not Mech Assault where you speed theough a mission but here you need to strategize you need to conserve ammo you need to plan. This game is trying to attain realism and does a fantastic job at it.

Over All:

This is the first 200$ game I bought and was a bit weary but when I seen that controller I knew I had to have it. The controller is solid and not cheap and flimsy, the foot pedals are metal and are very sturdy. The game is amazing and one I would highly, highly recommend to anyone who is a mech fan. However I would make sure before you buy it that this is your type of game.

EXTRA:

They are bringing out Steel Battalion On line so it isn't a one time game

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 04/09/03, Updated 04/09/03