DESCRIPTION

Two seemingly disparate franchises are combined into a single, surprising release with Dynasty Warriors: Gundam. Developer Omega Force's sword-swinging series may have catapulted from feudal China to the distant future, but the fast-paced, arcade-style action and character-oriented battles against throngs of enemies are still very much intact. Players can choose from a list of popular heroes and villains from the sweeping Gundam universe, strap into a powerful Mobile Suit, and engage in futuristic warfare with the help of some familiar allies. The main "Official" mode features a total of six playable characters, each offering a four-mission storyline set in such locales as Juburo and Odessa. The "Original" mode offers 16 playable characters in various crossover scenarios, while the Versus mode allows two players to battle each other head to head.

Fans of previous Dynasty Warriors installments will recognize the play mechanics even if the setting and characters are completely different. Each sprawling environment is viewed from a third-person perspective behind the selected Mobile Suit. A mini-map notes the position of enemies and strategic objectives in the top right corner of the screen, and combat involves a mix of melee and projectile-based attacks. Each Mobile Suit can be upgraded with an assortment of parts found by defeating enemies, and hidden pilots and additional Mobile Suits can be unlocked in both Original and Official modes by completing specific objectives. Missions involve escorts, timed challenges, defending allies, destroying rival bases, and more. As pilots become more experienced, they will reach higher levels and acquire new skills to help in subsequent battles. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide