Vimm's Lair: PS1 Reviews - Front Mission 3
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PlayStation
Front Mission 3

Graphics:
Sound:
Gameplay:
Overall:
9.18
9.05
9.59
9.51
Votes: 39
Reviews: 1


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Reviewer: F.Allen Date: May 23, 2016
This is a solid representation of the Front Mission franchise, and the first game in the series to see official release outside of Japan. One of the best turn based strategic combat games of the Playstation Era.

Graphics: 9
The game uses a mix of 2d sprites and 3d polygons. Battles are conducted on a 3d polygon grid-map with an movable overhead camera using 2d sprites to represent the units. The camera zooms in on the units when they take actions (other than movement), seamlessly transitioning the 2d sprites into 3d polygon versions of the units. The 3d close ups of the units even show damaged limbs being blown off.

Sound: 9
The soundtrack for this game gets a little repetitive, but it has a nice futuristic vibe that fits the setting perfectly. The impacts and explosions aren't overly staticky even on cheap TV speakers.

Gameplay: 10
This is a superb turn based strategic combat game. The controls are simple, there are no gimmicks like timed inputs for attacking or blocking. Each battle requires forethought and planning to survive. This game is very hard on your first playthrough. Without cheating by using a walkthrough you may have to replay battles a few times to determine the correct balance of what to bring to the fight.

Overall: 9
This is an excellent representation of both what the Playstation is capable of as well as the Front Mission franchise.

If you liked Final Fantasy Tactics, and like giant fighting robots, you will love the Front Mission franchise. I originally found it long ago while looking for more Battletech/Mechwarrior type games.