average game
-Visuals 7/10-
Mech games have always had a certain amount of detail, or some sort of flashy overtone to it, but they always fall short. Armored Core 2 is no exception to that long standing rule in which once you get used to what you see, there really isn't much else there. Well designed landscapes greet you from the start, but the truly blocky, although well detailed Mechs fill the screens with blasts and explosions that you've seen everywhere else.
-Audio 7/10-
Hard to gauge, but it falls into the same routine of what you've heard everywhere else. Each stage has a set of music that tries hard to get you into the game, but it takes a little time to get used to the strange music. The sound effects come in as a blend, adding a bit of flare to the music that you're listening to. However, after about an hour, you'll be turning the music and effects down, and popping something else in to listen to.
-Control 7/10-
While a little daunting at first, AC 2 offers you several different button combinations to use while controlling your Mech. You have a standard variety of attack buttons that control a particular function of your Mech, and then you have buttons that control various functions of your Mech. Gamers just getting into a game like this, will find the controls a little confusing, and even gamers who are used to games of this type, will find that it takes alot of practice to master their machine witht he slightly un-responsive directional pad.
-Game Play 7/10-
The true game play of Armored Core, is to learn to use your Mech in several different matches against computer controlled opponents. What sets this apart, is the fact that the computer controlled opponents have a high difficulty level, and you'll find that the game can be quite unfair if you're backed into a corner.
One of the better features of the game, is the ability to create a machine through various gameplay to make up a truly bad-ass machine. When playing, you'll find that most of the parts look neat, but you'll be searching to find a truly awesome set to make your Mech one to be feared. Keep this in mind while playing, that every combination is different, and it'll take hours to master a custom mech in battle.
-Overall 7/10-
While a decent game, Armored Core 2 makes you sweat a bit in just the first twenty minutes of play. Most of the game is about action, while the other part is about strategy in the form of just trying to stay alive. The sounds are decent, and the visuals are so-so, but the confusing control and the un-original game play bring the score of this game down.
Gamers just beginning in the Mech Arena should probably look for a more ''user-friendly'' game than this, and even experienced gamers should take a minute to think before they leap into a purchase. If you're gung-ho about Mech games, then you'll find this one worth your time, and worth your money.Read full review
