Evaluation of Armored Core 3 Eric Nelson CIS 487 Oct 3, 2005

Evaluation of Armored Core 3

Eric Nelson

CIS 487

Oct 3, 2005

General Information

Published by agetec Developed by

FROM SOFTWARE Mecca Combat Simulator Released Sept 2002 Current price $29.99

Hardware Requirements

PS2 PS2 memory card with at least 95 KB Dualshock controller USB mouse (optional)

Quick Overview

You are a mercenary pilot of a mech, aka armored core. You earn credits by competing in the arena and completing missions. With this cash you can buy better parts and upgrades.

Storyline

You operate on earth in an underground complex called layered. In charge is a super-AI: ‘The Controller’. Recently, more and more evidence suggests that it is malfunctioning.

In time, you are approached by Union, a group out to fix things one way or another.

Getting Started

No installation required A dualshock controller is the principle

interface, a USB mouse is also supported in the emblem editor.

You are given a basic core, it’s up to you to pilot and upgrade it through missions and arena battles.

Scoring

Payment from missions Payment from the arena Mission Performance Training Performance Mission Success Rate

Artwork

The opening sequence is good eye candy

Menus and displays are sharp

Combat graphics are average

Sound & Music

Music tracks are a type of futuristic electronic

Sound effects are good, but more variety would have helped

Voice acting is well done

Manual

Covers basic movement and controls Gives descriptions for parts and terms Easier to reference than accessing the

in game knowledge system.

Features & Bugs

4 player support with connected PS2s

The player can position themselves in a way so that the camera goes out of bounds

Game Pros

Being able to mix and match several hundred parts to make a core that fits your play style

The ability to drop weapons during a battle to increase mobility

Playing with or against a friend in the arena

Game Cons

There is no optional tutorial for new players

The difficulty of creating custom emblems

Playing against the godly arena opponents can become frustrating

Comparison

Gundam, Mech Assult, Gungriffon Blaze Armored Core 3 is better than these

games: More customization options Fast paced game play The Arena

Audience

‘Lab Rats’

Mecca lovers

Shooter fans

Design Mistake

The 2 player 'Extra' arena option should have had an option to allowed 2 human players

Summary

Good: Customization, re-playability, arena

Bad: Initial learning curve, emblem editor use

Improve: Emblem editor, extra arena, tutorial

Overall: Definitely worth purchasing

End Transmission

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