Developer: FromSoftware

Frame Gride (1999)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Frame Gride: From Software’s Foray into Fantasy Mecha Combat

Released in 1999, Frame Gride was From Software’s ambitious attempt to create a fantasy-themed take on their popular Armored Core series. While it shares many similarities with its mech-based cousin, Frame Gride also introduces a number of unique elements that set it apart, including a vibrant and colorful world, a focus on melee combat, and the inclusion of online multiplayer.

A Fantasy World of Steel and Sorcery

One of the most striking things about Frame Gride is its unique setting. Unlike the gritty and industrial worlds of the Armored Core games, Frame Gride takes place in a vibrant and colorful fantasy realm. The game’s world is filled with lush forests, towering mountains, and ancient ruins, all rendered in a vibrant and painterly art style.

This fantasy setting is reflected in the game’s cast of characters and enemies. Players take control of a Frame, a customizable mech suit, and battle against a variety of enemies, including orcs, goblins, and dragons. The game’s bosses are particularly memorable, each with their own unique design and abilities.

Melee Combat Takes Center Stage

Another key difference between Frame Gride and Armored Core is its focus on melee combat. While Armored Core games primarily focus on ranged combat, Frame Gride gives players a variety of melee weapons to choose from, including swords, axes, and hammers. Melee combat is fast-paced and visceral, and it requires players to carefully manage their stamina and positioning.

In addition to melee weapons, players can also equip their Frames with a variety of ranged weapons, including guns, missiles, and lasers. However, ranged weapons are generally less effective than melee weapons in close quarters, so players need to be careful not to get too far away from their opponents.

Online Multiplayer: A First for Console Mech Games

One of the most significant features of Frame Gride was its inclusion of online multiplayer. This was a major innovation at the time, as no other console mech game had yet featured online play. Frame Gride’s online multiplayer allowed players to battle against each other in a variety of modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and capture the flag.

The online multiplayer in Frame Gride was a huge success, and it helped to extend the game’s lifespan considerably. Even today, there is still a small but dedicated community of players who continue to enjoy Frame Gride’s online multiplayer.

A Unique and Underrated Gem

Frame Gride is a unique and underrated gem in the mech combat genre. It combines the fast-paced action of Armored Core with the fantasy setting of a traditional RPG, and it adds in a healthy dose of online multiplayer to create a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a fan of mech games, or if you’re simply looking for a unique and challenging game to play, then I highly recommend checking out Frame Gride.

Here are some additional details about Frame Gride:

  • The game was developed by From Software, the same studio that created the Armored Core series, Dark Souls, and Bloodborne.
  • Frame Gride was released exclusively for the PlayStation 2.
  • The game features a total of 12 different Frames, each with its own unique stats and abilities.
  • Players can customize their Frames with a variety of weapons, armor, and upgrades.
  • The game’s online multiplayer supports up to 8 players.

Conclusion

Frame Gride is a unique and underrated gem in the mech combat genre. It combines the fast-paced action of Armored Core with the fantasy setting of a traditional RPG, and it adds in a healthy dose of online multiplayer to create a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a fan of mech games, or if you’re simply looking for a unique and challenging game to play, then I highly recommend checking out Frame Gride.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Another Century’s Episode (2005)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Another Century’s Episode: A Real Robot Mecha Mashup Extravaganza

Introduction

Another Century’s Episode (A.C.E.) is a fast-paced action game that brings together characters, mecha, and story elements from nine iconic Japanese anime series. Developed by Banpresto, known for their Super Robot Wars franchise, and From Software, the creators of the Armored Core series, A.C.E. was released in 2005 exclusively for the PlayStation 2.

Gameplay

A.C.E. is a third-person action game where players control giant robots, known as mecha, in intense battles against waves of enemies. The game features a roster of over 50 playable mecha from nine different anime series, including:

  • Gundam Wing
  • Gundam SEED
  • Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket
  • Armored Core: Project Phantasma
  • Macross
  • Martian Successor Nadesico
  • Full Metal Panic!
  • Eureka Seven
  • RahXephon

Each mecha has its own unique abilities and weapons, and players can customize their loadouts to suit their playstyle. The game’s combat is fast-paced and chaotic, with players dodging enemy attacks, firing off weapons, and unleashing powerful special moves.

In addition to the main story mode, A.C.E. also features a variety of other modes, including:

  • Versus Mode: Battle against other players in local or online multiplayer.
  • Mission Mode: Take on specific objectives in short, self-contained missions.
  • Training Mode: Practice your skills and learn new combos.
  • Gallery Mode: View a collection of concept art, character profiles, and mecha data.

Story

A.C.E.’s story is set in the year 2151, where humanity has colonized the solar system and established a number of space colonies. However, peace is shattered by the sudden invasion of an unknown alien force known as the Grappler. The Grappler quickly overwhelm the Earth’s defenses and begin to conquer the colonies one by one.

In the face of this overwhelming threat, the Earth Federation assembles a team of elite mecha pilots from across the solar system to form the Another Century’s Episode task force. The task force is tasked with investigating the Grappler invasion and finding a way to defeat them.

As the task force travels from colony to colony, they encounter a variety of challenges, including:

  • Fighting their way through hordes of Grappler forces.
  • Rescuing civilians and protecting the colonies.
  • Uncovering the secrets of the Grappler and their motivations.

Along the way, the task force also learns more about themselves and their place in the universe. They must come to terms with their own strengths and weaknesses, and learn to work together as a team if they want to have any hope of defeating the Grappler and saving humanity.

Characters

A.C.E. features a large cast of characters from the nine different anime series that it represents. Each character has their own unique personality and motivations, and they all play a vital role in the story.

Some of the most notable characters include:

  • Heero Yuy (Gundam Wing): A skilled Gundam pilot who is haunted by his past.
  • Kira Yamato (Gundam SEED): A young and idealistic Gundam pilot who fights for peace.
  • Bernie Wiseman (Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket): A young boy who is forced to grow up quickly in the midst of war.
  • Nine (Armored Core: Project Phantasma): A mysterious mercenary who fights for her own reasons.
  • Hikaru Ichijyo (Macross): A skilled pilot who fights for the protection of humanity.
  • Ruri Hoshino (Martian Successor Nadesico): A cheerful and optimistic girl who fights for the sake of her friends.
  • Sousuke Sagara (Full Metal Panic!): A skilled mercenary who fights for the protection of his client.
  • Renton Thurston (Eureka Seven): A young boy who discovers his destiny as a mecha pilot.
  • Ayato Kamina (RahXephon): A young man who fights to protect the world from the Dolbies.

Reception

Another Century’s Episode was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its fast-paced combat, large roster of playable mecha, and engaging story. It was also one of the first games to successfully combine mecha from different anime series into a single cohesive experience.

The game was nominated for several awards, including “Game of the Year” at the 2006 Golden Joystick Awards. It also won the “Best Original Soundtrack” award at the 2006 IGN Awards.

Legacy

Another Century’s Episode has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Another Century’s Episode: R (2010), Another Century’s Episode Portable (2011), and Another Century’s Episode 3: The Final (2015). The series has also been adapted into a manga and a light novel.

The Another Century’s Episode series is considered to be one of the best mecha action game franchises of all time. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, large roster of playable mecha, and engaging stories. The series continues to be popular today, and it is still one of the best ways to experience the excitement of piloting giant robots from some of the most iconic anime series of all time.

Conclusion

Another Century’s Episode is a fast-paced, action-packed mecha game that brings together characters, mecha, and story elements from nine iconic Japanese anime series. With its large roster of playable mecha, engaging story, and innovative gameplay, A.C.E. is a must-play for fans of mecha action games and anime fans alike.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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Armored Core: Project Phantasma (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Armored Core: Project Phantasma (1997)

Armored Core: Project Phantasma is a mecha action game developed by FromSoftware and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation. It was released in Japan on March 27, 1997, and in North America and Europe in September 1997. It is the second game in the Armored Core series, and the first to be released on a 3D console.

Project Phantasma takes place in the year 2311, in a world ravaged by war and pollution. The player takes control of a Raven, a mercenary pilot of an Armored Core, a powerful mech suit. Ravens are hired by corporations and governments to carry out various missions, such as assassinations, sabotage, and reconnaissance.

The player begins the game by creating their own Armored Core. There are a wide variety of parts to choose from, including different weapons, armor, and engines. The player can also customize the appearance of their Armored Core with different paint schemes and decals.

Once the player has created their Armored Core, they can begin taking on missions. Missions are typically objective-based, and can involve anything from destroying enemy mechs to escorting cargo. The player can earn money and experience points for completing missions, which can be used to upgrade their Armored Core.

Project Phantasma features a fast-paced and intense combat system. The player can use a variety of weapons to attack their enemies, including guns, missiles, and lasers. The player can also use their Armored Core’s boosters to dodge enemy attacks and move around the battlefield quickly.

In addition to the main story mode, Project Phantasma also features a number of side missions and challenges. These can be completed to earn additional money and experience points, or to unlock new parts and weapons.

Project Phantasma was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its deep customization, challenging missions, and epic boss battles. It is considered to be one of the best mecha action games ever made.

Gameplay

Project Phantasma is a third-person mecha action game. The player controls an Armored Core, a powerful mech suit, and must complete a variety of missions, such as assassinations, sabotage, and reconnaissance.

The player begins the game by creating their own Armored Core. There are a wide variety of parts to choose from, including different weapons, armor, and engines. The player can also customize the appearance of their Armored Core with different paint schemes and decals.

Once the player has created their Armored Core, they can begin taking on missions. Missions are typically objective-based, and can involve anything from destroying enemy mechs to escorting cargo. The player can earn money and experience points for completing missions, which can be used to upgrade their Armored Core.

Project Phantasma features a fast-paced and intense combat system. The player can use a variety of weapons to attack their enemies, including guns, missiles, and lasers. The player can also use their Armored Core’s boosters to dodge enemy attacks and move around the battlefield quickly.

Story

Project Phantasma takes place in the year 2311, in a world ravaged by war and pollution. The player takes control of a Raven, a mercenary pilot of an Armored Core, a powerful mech suit. Ravens are hired by corporations and governments to carry out various missions, such as assassinations, sabotage, and reconnaissance.

The player begins the game by receiving a mysterious message that leads them to the underground urban complex, Amber Crown. The player is tasked with infiltrating Amber Crown and finding out what is going on inside.

As the player progresses through the game, they will learn more about the history of Amber Crown and the people who live there. They will also learn about the true nature of the mission they have been given.

The story of Project Phantasma is complex and engaging. It explores themes of war, pollution, and the nature of humanity.

Graphics

Project Phantasma was one of the first 3D mecha action games. The graphics are impressive for their time, and the game still holds up today. The mechs are well-detailed, and the environments are large and expansive.

The game also features a number of impressive special effects, such as explosions and smoke trails. The frame rate is smooth, even during intense battles.

Sound

The sound design in Project Phantasma is excellent. The music is atmospheric and intense, and the sound effects are realistic and impactful.

The voice acting is also top-notch. The actors deliver their lines with conviction, and they bring the characters to life.

Overall

Armored Core: Project Phantasma is a classic mecha action game. It features deep customization, challenging missions, and epic boss battles. The graphics and sound are excellent, and the story is complex and engaging.

If you are a fan of mecha action games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Armored Core: Project Phantasma. It is one of the best games in the series, and it is still one of the best mecha action games ever made.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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Another Century’s Episode 2 (2006)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Another Century’s Episode 2: A Mecha Mashup Extravaganza

From the developers of the Super Robot Wars and Armored Core series comes Another Century’s Episode 2, a 3D action game that brings together a massive roster of iconic mechs from a wide range of popular anime series. With its fast-paced combat, engaging storyline, and stunning visuals, ACE2 is a must-play for fans of giant robot action.

A Universe of Mechs

One of the most striking things about ACE2 is its incredible roster of mechs. With over 70 units to choose from, players can pilot their favorite machines from series such as Gundam Wing, Gundam SEED, Macross, Armored Core, and many more. Each mech has its own unique abilities and weapons, so there’s a playstyle to suit every taste.

The mechs are lovingly recreated in 3D, and the attention to detail is impressive. From the Gundam Wing Zero’s iconic wings to the Armored Core’s customizable parts, each unit looks and feels like it stepped right out of the anime.

Fast-Paced Combat

The combat in ACE2 is fast-paced and exhilarating. Players control their mechs in third-person, and can use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies. The controls are responsive and fluid, and the sense of speed and power is intoxicating.

One of the things that makes ACE2’s combat so enjoyable is the variety of attacks available to each mech. In addition to standard beam rifles and missiles, players can also use special abilities such as the Gundam Wing Zero’s Twin Buster Rifle or the Armored Core’s Overload Mode. These abilities add an extra layer of strategy and depth to the combat, and they can be devastatingly effective when used at the right time.

An Epic Storyline

ACE2’s storyline is surprisingly engaging, and it does a great job of tying together the different anime series represented in the game. The story follows a group of pilots from different worlds who are brought together to fight against a common enemy. As the pilots work together, they learn to overcome their differences and forge new bonds.

The story is told through a series of cutscenes, which are well-animated and voice-acted. The dialogue is well-written, and the characters are likeable and relatable. Even if you’re not familiar with all of the anime series represented in the game, you’ll still be able to enjoy the story.

Stunning Visuals

ACE2 is a visually stunning game, with detailed graphics and impressive special effects. The mechs are beautifully rendered, and the environments are lush and detailed. The game also runs smoothly, even on older hardware.

Replayability

With its huge roster of mechs, engaging storyline, and challenging gameplay, ACE2 has a lot of replayability. There are multiple endings to unlock, and there are also a variety of side missions and challenges to complete. Even after you’ve beaten the main story, there’s still plenty of content to keep you entertained.

Overall

Another Century’s Episode 2 is a must-play for fans of giant robot action and anime. With its huge roster of mechs, fast-paced combat, engaging storyline, and stunning visuals, it’s an epic adventure that will keep you hooked for hours on end.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

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Ninja Blade (2009)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Ninja Blade: A Visceral and Unforgettable Action Adventure

Introduction

Released in 2009, Ninja Blade is an action-adventure hack-and-slash video game that captivated players with its intense combat, fast-paced gameplay, and gripping story. Developed by FromSoftware, the renowned creators of the Dark Souls and Bloodborne series, Ninja Blade showcased the studio’s expertise in crafting challenging and rewarding experiences.

Story: A Tale of Revenge and Redemption

Ninja Blade thrusts players into a dark and perilous world where ancient evils have awakened. The protagonist, Ken Ogawa, is a highly skilled ninja tasked with investigating a mysterious outbreak that has transformed ordinary people into rabid, carnivorous creatures. As Ken delves deeper into the conspiracy, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to plunge the world into chaos.

Driven by a thirst for vengeance and a desire for redemption, Ken embarks on a perilous journey that will test his skills and challenge his very existence. Along the way, he must confront his own inner demons and make difficult choices that will shape the fate of humanity.

Gameplay: Fast-Paced and Visceral Combat

Ninja Blade’s gameplay is a symphony of fast-paced action and visceral combat. Players control Ken as he slices and dices his way through hordes of enemies, utilizing an arsenal of deadly weapons and ninja techniques. The game’s combat system is fluid and responsive, allowing players to execute a wide range of attacks, combos, and special moves with precision and style.

In addition to his swordsmanship, Ken can also wield a variety of firearms and gadgets to gain an edge in battle. The game encourages players to experiment with different combinations of weapons and abilities to find their own unique combat style.

Enemies: A Menagerie of Monstrous Foes

Ninja Blade features a diverse cast of enemies, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses. From the lowly Rabid to the towering Ogre, Ken must adapt his tactics to overcome each challenge. The game also introduces formidable boss battles that require players to master their skills and use their wits to emerge victorious.

Graphics and Atmosphere: A Dark and Immersive World

Ninja Blade’s visuals are a testament to FromSoftware’s attention to detail. The game’s environments are dark and atmospheric, with a distinct cyberpunk aesthetic. The character models are highly detailed, and the animations are fluid and realistic.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a blend of traditional Japanese instruments and electronic soundscapes that perfectly complements the game’s intense and immersive atmosphere.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Ninja Blade received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its fast-paced combat, challenging difficulty, and gripping story. However, some critics found the game’s repetitive gameplay and linear level design to be somewhat limiting.

Despite these minor criticisms, Ninja Blade has gained a cult following among fans of action-adventure games. The game’s unique blend of ninja combat and dark fantasy elements has resonated with players, and it remains a beloved title in the FromSoftware catalog.

Conclusion

Ninja Blade is a visceral and unforgettable action-adventure experience that showcases FromSoftware’s mastery of the genre. With its fast-paced combat, gripping story, and immersive atmosphere, Ninja Blade is a game that will keep players on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Whether you’re a seasoned action game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Ninja Blade is a must-play title that will challenge your skills and leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

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Armored Core: Master of Arena (1999)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Armored Core: Master of Arena (1999)

Armored Core: Master of Arena is a mech action game developed by FromSoftware and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation. It was released in Japan on March 18, 1999, and in North America and Europe in September 1999. It is the second game in the Armored Core series, and the first to be released on a home console.

The game is set in the year 2499, in the aftermath of a global nuclear war. The world is now ruled by corporations, who use giant mechs called Armored Cores to wage war against each other. The player takes on the role of a mercenary who is hired by one of these corporations to pilot an Armored Core and fight in the war.

Armored Core: Master of Arena is a fast-paced and action-packed game. The player controls their Armored Core from a third-person perspective, and must use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies. The game features a wide variety of mechs to choose from, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player can also customize their mech with a variety of weapons and upgrades.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The story is relatively simple, but it is effective in conveying the game’s themes of war, revenge, and redemption.

Armored Core: Master of Arena was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, impressive graphics, and deep customization options. The game has been credited with helping to popularize the mech action genre on home consoles.

Gameplay

Armored Core: Master of Arena is a fast-paced and action-packed game. The player controls their Armored Core from a third-person perspective, and must use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies. The game features a wide variety of mechs to choose from, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player can also customize their mech with a variety of weapons and upgrades.

The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn. The left analog stick controls the movement of the Armored Core, while the right analog stick controls the camera. The shoulder buttons are used to fire weapons, and the face buttons are used to activate special abilities.

The game’s combat is fast-paced and intense. The player must constantly be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to dodge enemy attacks. The player can use a variety of weapons to defeat their enemies, including machine guns, missiles, and lasers. The player can also use a variety of special abilities, such as cloaking and boosting.

Story

The story of Armored Core: Master of Arena is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The story is relatively simple, but it is effective in conveying the game’s themes of war, revenge, and redemption.

The game is set in the year 2499, in the aftermath of a global nuclear war. The world is now ruled by corporations, who use giant mechs called Armored Cores to wage war against each other. The player takes on the role of a mercenary who is hired by one of these corporations to pilot an Armored Core and fight in the war.

The player’s character is a young man who lost his family in the war. He is filled with anger and hatred, and he vows to get revenge on those who killed his family. The player’s character joins a group of mercenaries called the Ravens, and he begins to fight against the corporations.

As the player progresses through the game, they will learn more about the war and the corporations that are fighting it. They will also learn more about their own character and his motivations. The player’s character will eventually come to realize that revenge is not the answer, and that he must find a way to forgive those who killed his family.

Graphics

The graphics in Armored Core: Master of Arena are impressive for a PlayStation game. The mechs are detailed and well-animated, and the environments are large and expansive. The game’s cutscenes are also well-done, and they help to tell the game’s story.

Sound

The sound in Armored Core: Master of Arena is also impressive. The game’s music is composed by Nobuo Uematsu, and it is some of the best music in the series. The game’s sound effects are also well-done, and they help to create a sense of immersion.

Overall

Armored Core: Master of Arena is a classic mech action game. It has a great story, intense gameplay, and awesome graphics for its time. If you are a fan of mech games, then you should definitely check out Armored Core: Master of Arena.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Demon’s Souls (2009)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Demon’s Souls: A Masterpiece of Action RPG Gaming

Demon’s Souls is a third-person action RPG developed by FromSoftware and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was released in Japan in 2009 and in North America and Europe in 2010. The game is set in the kingdom of Boletaria, which has been ravaged by a fog that spawns murderous demons. The player takes on the role of a customizable character who must hunt down the arch demons situated in five disparate areas within the kingdom and partake in punishing combat to reach the Old One, the vengeful being that brought the fog to Boletaria.

Demon’s Souls is known for its challenging difficulty, which has become a hallmark of FromSoftware’s games. The game’s combat is unforgiving, and players must carefully consider their every move. One mistake can lead to death, and players must be prepared to learn from their mistakes and try again.

Despite its difficulty, Demon’s Souls is also a deeply rewarding game. The sense of accomplishment that comes from overcoming a difficult challenge is immense, and the game’s world is full of secrets and hidden rewards to discover.

Gameplay

Demon’s Souls is a third-person action RPG with a focus on melee combat. The player character can wield a variety of weapons and armor, and can use magic spells to aid them in battle. The game’s combat is challenging, but it is also fair. Enemies are tough, but they can be defeated with careful planning and execution.

In addition to its challenging combat, Demon’s Souls also features a unique online multiplayer component. Players can summon other players to help them fight bosses or explore the game’s world. They can also invade other players’ worlds and try to kill them. The online multiplayer component adds a lot of replayability to the game, and it can be a lot of fun to team up with friends or challenge other players to PvP duels.

Setting

Demon’s Souls is set in the kingdom of Boletaria, which has been ravaged by a fog that spawns murderous demons. The kingdom was once a prosperous land, but the fog has turned it into a nightmare. The people of Boletaria are now trapped in their homes, and the few who venture outside are quickly killed by the demons.

The player character is a lone warrior who has come to Boletaria to hunt down the arch demons and lift the fog. The player must travel through five different areas of the kingdom, each of which is home to its own unique set of challenges.

Characters

The player character in Demon’s Souls is fully customizable. Players can choose their character’s gender, race, and class. Each class has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so players can choose the class that best suits their playstyle.

In addition to the player character, Demon’s Souls also features a cast of supporting characters. These characters can provide the player with information about the game’s world and its inhabitants. They can also offer the player помощь or training.

Story

The story of Demon’s Souls is relatively simple, but it is told in a very effective way. The game’s world is full of environmental storytelling, and players can learn about the kingdom of Boletaria and its inhabitants by exploring the game’s world and talking to its characters.

The game’s story is also told through its boss fights. Each boss fight is a unique and challenging experience, and each boss has its own unique backstory. By defeating the bosses, players can learn more about the game’s world and its history.

Graphics and Sound

Demon’s Souls was one of the most visually impressive games of its time. The game’s world is full of detail, and the character models are very well-animated. The game’s sound design is also excellent, and the music and sound effects help to create a truly immersive experience.

Overall

Demon’s Souls is a masterpiece of action RPG gaming. It is a challenging, rewarding, and incredibly immersive game. If you are a fan of the genre, you need to play this game.

Score: 9.5/10

Review Score

9.5/10

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Dark Souls II (2014)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Dark Souls II: A Journey Through Despair and Triumph

Released in 2014, Dark Souls II is the second installment in the critically acclaimed action role-playing game series developed by FromSoftware. Known for its unrelenting difficulty, immersive environments, and deep lore, Dark Souls II has captivated gamers worldwide, earning a reputation as one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences in gaming.

A World of Darkness and Despair

Dark Souls II takes place in the fictional kingdom of Drangleic, a land steeped in darkness and despair. The kingdom is ruled by Vendrick, a once-great king who has become a hollow shell of his former self. As the player, you take on the role of an undead wanderer, cursed to seek out the four Great Souls and restore balance to the world.

The world of Dark Souls II is a hostile and unforgiving place. Players must navigate through treacherous environments filled with deadly traps, grotesque monsters, and powerful bosses. The game’s combat is deliberate and punishing, requiring players to carefully time their attacks and defenses. Death is a frequent occurrence, but it is also a learning experience. Each death teaches players the intricacies of the game’s mechanics and forces them to adapt their strategies.

A Test of Skill and Endurance

Dark Souls II is not for the faint of heart. The game’s difficulty is legendary, and it will test the patience and skill of even the most experienced gamers. Players must be prepared to die often, but they must also learn from their mistakes and persevere.

The game’s unforgiving nature can be frustrating at times, but it is also what makes it so rewarding. Overcoming the challenges of Dark Souls II gives players a sense of accomplishment that is unmatched by many other games. The feeling of finally defeating a difficult boss or overcoming a particularly challenging area is truly euphoric.

Immersive Environments and Haunting Atmosphere

One of the things that makes Dark Souls II so special is its immersive environments. The game’s world is rich in detail and atmosphere, and it feels like a real place with its own history and lore. Players will explore a variety of locations, from dark and oppressive dungeons to sprawling forests and crumbling castles.

The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, and it perfectly complements the game’s dark and brooding atmosphere. The music is both beautiful and haunting, and it helps to create a sense of tension and dread.

A Deep and Complex Lore

Dark Souls II has a deep and complex lore that is gradually revealed to players as they progress through the game. The story is told through environmental storytelling, item descriptions, and dialogue with NPCs. Players who take the time to explore the world and read the item descriptions will be rewarded with a rich and rewarding narrative.

The lore of Dark Souls II is full of tragedy and despair, but it is also a story of hope and redemption. The game’s characters are complex and flawed, and their stories will stay with you long after you finish playing.

A Game That Will Stay With You

Dark Souls II is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing. It is a challenging and rewarding experience that will test your limits and leave you feeling a sense of accomplishment. The game’s dark and oppressive world, immersive environments, and deep lore will haunt your thoughts for days to come.

If you are looking for a game that will challenge you, immerse you, and stay with you long after you finish playing, then Dark Souls II is the game for you.

Review Score

9/10

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Armored Core 3 (2002)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Armored Core 3: A Detailed Retrospective

Introduction

Armored Core 3 is a mecha action game developed by FromSoftware and published by Agetec for the PlayStation 2. It was released in Japan on February 28, 2002, and in North America and Europe in November 2002. Armored Core 3 is the third installment in the Armored Core series, and it introduces a number of new features and improvements over its predecessors.

Gameplay

Armored Core 3 features fast-paced, third-person mecha combat. Players control a Raven mercenary and pilot a variety of mechs, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Mechs can be customized with a wide range of weapons, including machine guns, cannons, missiles, and lasers. Players can also equip their mechs with different parts, such as armor, shields, and boosters, to improve their performance.

Armored Core 3 features a variety of mission types, including story missions, side missions, and arena battles. In story missions, players progress through a linear campaign, fighting against enemy mechs and completing objectives. Side missions offer players the opportunity to earn extra money and experience, and arena battles allow players to test their skills against other players or AI opponents.

Story

Armored Core 3 takes place in the year 2499, after the events of Armored Core 2. The world is still recovering from the Nine Breaker War, and the Ravens are now a major force in the global economy. The player character is a Raven mercenary who is hired by a mysterious organization to investigate the disappearance of a group of scientists.

As the player progresses through the game, they uncover a plot by a terrorist organization to use a powerful new weapon to destroy the world. The player must race against time to stop the terrorists and save the world.

Features

Armored Core 3 introduces a number of new features and improvements over its predecessors. These include:

  • A new mission system: Armored Core 3 features a new mission system that allows players to choose from a variety of mission types, including story missions, side missions, and arena battles.
  • A new parts system: Armored Core 3 features a new parts system that allows players to customize their mechs with a wide range of weapons, armor, and other parts.
  • A new graphics engine: Armored Core 3 features a new graphics engine that delivers stunning visuals and smooth, fast-paced gameplay.
  • A new online multiplayer mode: Armored Core 3 features a new online multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other in a variety of game modes.

Reception

Armored Core 3 was a critical and commercial success. It received praise for its fast-paced gameplay, deep customization options, and intense multiplayer mode. The game was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Armored Core 3 is considered to be one of the best mecha action games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and deep customization options. Armored Core 3 has also had a significant impact on the mecha genre, and it has inspired a number of other games, including the Dark Souls series.

Conclusion

Armored Core 3 is a classic mecha action game that still holds up today. Its fast-paced gameplay, deep customization options, and intense multiplayer mode make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding mecha action game, then Armored Core 3 is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Eternal Ring (2000)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Eternal Ring: A Timeless Classic

Released in 2000 for the PlayStation, Eternal Ring is an action RPG that tells the story of Cain, a young magician sent by his king to investigate the strange happenings on the Island of No Return. Armed with his sword and his natural talent as a sorcerer, Cain attempts to be the first person to return from the island alive.

The Island of No Return is said to be inhabited by numerous beasts, enormous dragons, and magical items that were supposed to be buried long ago. As Cain, players must solve several baffling scenarios and defend themselves while they search for the magic ring.

Eternal Ring is a classic action RPG that has stood the test of time. It has a great story, fun gameplay, and a memorable cast of characters. If you’re a fan of the genre, you owe it to yourself to check it out.

Story

The story of Eternal Ring is simple but effective. Cain is a young magician who is sent by his king to investigate the strange happenings on the Island of No Return. The island is said to be inhabited by numerous beasts, enormous dragons, and magical items that were supposed to be buried long ago.

Cain is the first person to ever return from the island alive. He tells the king of his adventures, and the king is so impressed that he gives Cain the magic ring. The ring gives Cain the power to control the elements, and he uses it to defeat the evil sorcerer who is responsible for the strange happenings on the island.

Gameplay

Eternal Ring is an action RPG that plays from a third-person perspective. Players control Cain as he explores the Island of No Return, fighting enemies, solving puzzles, and collecting items.

Cain is a skilled magician, and he can use a variety of spells to attack enemies and solve puzzles. He can also use his sword to fight enemies in close combat.

The gameplay in Eternal Ring is fast-paced and exciting. Players must constantly be on their toes, as enemies can attack from any direction. The puzzles are also challenging, and they require players to use their wits to solve them.

Characters

The characters in Eternal Ring are well-developed and memorable. Cain is a likeable protagonist, and players will root for him as he tries to save the Island of No Return. The other characters in the game are also well-written, and they each have their own unique motivations and goals.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Eternal Ring are impressive for a PlayStation game. The environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The sound design is also top-notch, and the music is both catchy and memorable.

Overall

Eternal Ring is a classic action RPG that still holds up today. It has a great story, fun gameplay, and a memorable cast of characters. If you’re a fan of the genre, you owe it to yourself to check it out.

Score: 8/10

Pros:

  • Great story
  • Fun gameplay
  • Memorable characters
  • Impressive graphics and sound

Cons:

  • Can be difficult at times
  • Some of the puzzles are too obscure

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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