8Bit/Digi

The Next Chapter in the Front Mission Series

The Front Mission series has garnered a dedicated following among gamers, despite its limited availability outside of Japan. However, this began to change starting with the first remake, granting gamers in access to the series’ origins. Now, the launch of Front Mission 2: Remake across all major platforms allows mecha fans to continue enjoying the series. 

Whether introduced to the series back in the day or more recently, mecha fans can now experience the next chapter of the series. Front Mission 2: Remake preserves all the defining elements of its predecessor while also enhancing the overall experience. The result is a remake that has rewarded fans for their patience and dedication.  

The Alordesh Coups

The Front Mission series has been one that is rich in lore and world-building. Its overall world is one where nations have come together under different multinational unions to protect their economic and political interests. The defining weapon of this world is the wanzer, mechs that are employed by national armed forces and PMCs. 

Front Mission 2 is set 12 years after the event of the first game and follows three Oceania Cooperative Union (OCU) soldiers during a conflict brought on in the aftermath of the Second Alordesh Coup. The pro-OCU government of Alordesh is overthrown in a military coup orchestrated by anti-OCU officers. At the same time, the rebel forces launch a surprise attack on every OCU base in the country. After surviving an ambush, members of the Muddy Otters unit attempt to regroup with other OCU survivors and flee the country. Unbeknownst to them, the coup is a cover for a more sinister plot.

While I’ve been somewhat familiar with the Second Huffman Conflict thanks to other titles in the series, the same could not be said about the Alordesh Coups. Even though the conflict plays a major role in the lore and has been mentioned in other titles, my understanding of it has been very minimal. This is a shame because it’s a strong story that is rich in world-building and suspense. It also has a lot of memorable and relatable characters. Making this a welcoming remake as we can finally experience this major event in the overall Front Mission lore. 

Piloting the Wanzer 

As with the first game, Front Mission 2: Remake blends the elements of a visual novel with a mecha combat game. The result is an experience that offers the best of both games. The story primarily unfolds through the format of a visual novel and is supplemented by cutscenes. Although this creative endeavor may have inherent risks, it was executed masterfully here. This is because neither aspect of the game had quality sacrificed in favor of the other. 

The gameplay adheres to the classic turn-based JRPG format, which has been synonymous with the series. Players will command a squad of wanzers strategically across a grid based battlefield. Engagements unfold through the utilization of a diverse array of weaponry, from short to long-range options. Each executed attack targets critical components of the enemy wanzers. While retaining its familiar essence, the gameplay has undergone refinements. This includes enhanced camera angle adjustments and a more sophisticated operating system.

Prepping the Wanzer

Front Mission 2 stands as a sequel that preserves all the defining gameplay and story elements while improving it. Upon comparison with its predecessor, players will recognize the myriad upgrades implemented and lessons learned. This is evident in the gameplay mechanics and the meticulous attention to battlefield intricacies. Notably, improvements in directing the camera angle afford players a clearer view of the map. Furthermore, the world design has been refined, boasting enhanced environmental details that enrich both the setting and the depiction of your wanzer.

This allows an effortless transition for series enthusiasts, while newcomers will find themselves spared from a steep learning curve. In fact, new gamers will be enjoying a more refined gameplay when compared to Front Mission 1st: Remake. However; the classic setup has not been scrapped and is an option for those who want to enjoy it old school.

Still Left Alive

Front Mission 2: Remake presents an exciting opportunity for mecha enthusiasts to delve into the second installment of this iconic series. However, it’s essential to note that the game does come with its fair share of issues. Among them is the still reliance on randomized chances for attacks, which remains a significant issue. Although there have been improvements since the previous game, this aspect still detracts from the overall experience.

As with most JRPGs, the possibility of attacks missing their mark is a common aspect. However, the combat maneuvers here are overly reliant on randomized chance. Unlike the previous game where hitting opponents might have been a 1 in 5 chance, here the issue regarding the variability of damage and target striking. While you do manage to hit the enemy, the outcome can vary significantly, ranging from inflicting a mere 10 HP of damage to a more substantial 30 HP. It’s an improvement but it’s also still annoying at times.

Continuing the Mission

As a fan who was first introduced to the series with Front Mission 4 for the PlayStation 2, these remakes have been welcoming. It has allowed me to experience the roots of the series for the first time with modern gameplay elements. While I was unfamiliar with the story, it quickly won me over with its suspense and unforgettable characters. It still has some shortcomings but it doesn’t hinder the overall experience. 

In a treat for old-school and new fans, Front Mission 2: Remake allows gamers to finally experience the second chapter of the mecha series. Be it those who were introduced with the third and fourth game or with the remake, all will enjoy this entry. Now we just wait for the remake of Front Mission 3. 

Disclaimer: The publisher through a PR representative provided the game used for this review.

This review is the critique and thoughts of one writer. If you want to see how other critics felt then check it out on OpenCritic.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides an insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Front Mission 2: Remake (PC)

9

Excellent

9.0/10

Pros

• Mech fans can finally play the second Front Mission game.
• Greater attention to visual details in the world and battlefield.
• Preserves all the defining gameplay and story elements while improving it.
• Improved gameplay with the option of enjoying the classic setup.

Cons

• Sucess of combat maneuvers are still determined too much by randomized chance.