Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy, Tactical, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: PlayStation 2
- Developers: Square Enix Product Development Division 6
- Publishers: Square Enix
Front Mission 5: Scars of the War: A Tactical Mecha Masterpiece
Released in 2005 for the PlayStation 2, Front Mission 5: Scars of the War is the fifth installment in Square’s acclaimed Front Mission tactical role-playing game series. Set in a gritty futuristic world ravaged by war, the game puts players in the cockpit of towering mechas known as wanzers, engaging in intense turn-based battles against enemy forces.
A Return to Roots with Modern Enhancements
Front Mission 5 marks a return to the series’ roots, particularly Front Mission 2, while incorporating various elements from Front Mission 1, 3, and 4. The game features a deep and engaging gameplay system that combines the classic turn-based strategy of its predecessors with new and innovative features.
One of the most significant additions to Front Mission 5 is the ability to upgrade wanzer parts. Players can now customize their mechas with a wide range of weapons, armor, and other enhancements, allowing for a high level of strategic depth and personalization. The game also reintroduces mission branching, a feature that allows players to make choices that affect the story’s progression and the missions they undertake.
A Gritty and Immersive Setting
Front Mission 5 takes place in the year 2112, in a world where five global superpowers are locked in a bitter conflict. The United States of the New Continent (U.S.N.), the Oceania Cooperative Union (O.C.U.), the European Community (E.C.), the Oceania Alliance Council (O.A.C.), and the Republic of Zaftra all possess powerful militaries and advanced wanzer technology.
The game’s story follows a group of mercenaries known as the Dhaos Hunters as they navigate the complexities of this war-torn world. The player takes on the role of a commander, leading their squad of wanzers into battle against enemy forces, completing missions, and unraveling the secrets behind the ongoing conflict.
Gameplay: Tactical Mecha Combat
Gameplay in Front Mission 5 revolves around turn-based tactical battles. Players control a squad of wanzers, each with its own unique abilities and weapons. The game’s combat system is deep and rewarding, requiring players to carefully consider their positioning, weapon selection, and attack strategies.
New to Front Mission 5 is the introduction of friendly fire. Players must now be mindful of their positioning and attacks to avoid accidentally damaging their own units. The game also features a new recruitment system, allowing players to add new pilots to their squad, each with their own skills and abilities.
Legacy and Impact
Front Mission 5: Scars of the War was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning praise for its deep gameplay, engaging story, and stunning graphics. The game is considered by many to be one of the best tactical role-playing games ever made and has left a lasting impact on the genre.
Front Mission 5’s success helped to solidify the Front Mission series as a staple of the tactical RPG genre. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, immersive setting, and memorable characters continue to inspire and influence game developers to this day.
Conclusion
Front Mission 5: Scars of the War is a masterpiece of tactical mecha combat. Its deep and engaging gameplay, gritty and immersive setting, and memorable story have made it a beloved classic among fans of the genre. Whether you’re a longtime Front Mission enthusiast or a newcomer to tactical RPGs, Front Mission 5 is an essential experience that will provide hours of challenging and rewarding gameplay.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
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