Summary
- Release Year: 1996
- Genres: Shooter, Simulator
- Platforms: DOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: BioWare, Logicware
- Publishers: Interplay Entertainment, Logicware
Shattered Steel (1996): A Classic Mech Combat Game
Released in 1996, Shattered Steel is a groundbreaking mech combat game that set the bar for future titles in the genre. Developed by Westwood Studios and published by EA, the game puts players in the cockpit of a powerful mech known as a Planet Runner and tasks them with fighting off an alien invasion.
Gameplay
Shattered Steel’s gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed. Players control their mech from a first-person perspective, using a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies. The game features a wide range of mission types, from search and destroy to escorting convoys.
One of the things that sets Shattered Steel apart from other mech combat games is its focus on speed and agility. Mechs in Shattered Steel are incredibly fast and maneuverable, and players can use this to their advantage to dodge enemy fire and get into advantageous positions.
Another key aspect of Shattered Steel’s gameplay is its weapon customization system. Players can equip their mechs with a variety of weapons, including gatling guns, guided missiles, and plasma cannons. Each weapon has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully choose the right weapons for each mission.
Story
Shattered Steel’s story is set in a futuristic world where humanity is under attack by an alien race known as the Syntho-Organics. The player takes on the role of a mech pilot who must fight back against the alien invaders and save humanity from extinction.
The story of Shattered Steel is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The cutscenes are well-produced and do a good job of setting the stage for the game’s action. The in-game dialogue is also well-written and helps to flesh out the characters and their motivations.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Shattered Steel’s graphics were cutting-edge. The mechs and environments are all beautifully rendered, and the game’s use of color and lighting is top-notch. The game’s sound design is also excellent, with realistic sound effects and a pulse-pounding soundtrack.
Reception
Shattered Steel was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, weapon customization system, and stunning graphics. Shattered Steel was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Shattered Steel is considered to be one of the best mech combat games ever made. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, weapon customization system, and stunning graphics set the bar for future titles in the genre. Shattered Steel is still enjoyed by many gamers today, and it remains a classic example of the mech combat genre.
Conclusion
Shattered Steel is a classic mech combat game that offers fast-paced action, deep customization options, and a compelling story. The game’s stunning graphics and sound design still hold up today, and it remains a must-play for fans of the mech combat genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
