12-Apr-2003 Steely proof that simulations can be enjoyable
Let's be frank: the mere thought of a flight simulation makes CVG go as limp as a limp éclair.
But although Steel Battalion, with its insane 40-button/three-pedalled controller is probably the most anal sim in the history of the genre, it's simulating an experience that any red-blooded male would get off on: piloting a 300-foot assault robot in a mad futuristic war. You might look like a geek playing it, but it'll make you feel like an all-powerful metal god.
LEARNER DRIVER Unsurprisingly it takes a good few hours before you become comfortable with the controls, but once you start to get to grips with it, it feels fantastic. Stomp confidently through the sea and storm beaches with your robot buddies; tear across narrow bridges while side-stepping barrage missile attacks; crunch cross-country and tactically take out enemy Vertical Tanks, gun emplacements and sneaky hidden ground troops.
The balance of all-out intense action and strategy is spot on. And the grittily gorgeous Saving Private Ryan-inspired visual style makes the whole experience feel brilliantly believable.
A CHINK IN THE ARMOUR Capcom's giant creation isn't as invulnerable as it looks, however. For all its brilliant innovation, there are only 12 missions in total. And considering you have to fork out 130 smackers for the pleasure of this unique experience, you'd expect more for your money.
That's not to say that it won't take you a long time to complete. It's bloody hard. Furthermore, as we told you in our preview, if you fail to eject before crashing and burning, you lose your save game. But having played it for a few months now, CVG can't help feeling that this gimmick is a cover-up for the lack of levels.
It costs the same price as a GameCube, it'll take over your bedroom, and could make your girlfriend wonder what the hell she's doing with you. But if you do choose to buy Steel Battalion, you'll acquire a piece of videogame history. There's never been a game like it, and there won't be again - until Steel Battalion 2, when you'll have to buy a self-assembly, skyscraper-sized robot peripheral. Start saving the pennies
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