Story

Front Mission 2 is a tactical RPG that takes players into the intricacies of geopolitical conflict, mechanized warfare, and human drama. Set in a futuristic world where nations are embroiled in territorial disputes, the game is a direct sequel to the original Front Mission. It offers a rich narrative that delves into the consequences of war from multiple perspectives, providing a profound storytelling experience.

The game is set in the year 2102, three years after the events of the original Front Mission. It primarily unfolds in the fictional Alordesh, a country in South Asia. The nation is experiencing significant turmoil due to economic distress and political instability. In this environment, a coup d’état is orchestrated by the Alordesh Army, leading to the country’s declaration of independence from the Oceania Cooperative Union (OCU).

Players primarily follow the story of Ash Faruk, a former soldier, who finds himself caught in the chaos of the coup. As the narrative progresses, players also interact with and control other key characters, each offering their own unique perspective on the conflict. These characters include Lisa Stanley, a journalist seeking the truth, and Thomas Norland, an OCU officer. The intertwining stories of these characters create a multidimensional plot that keeps players engaged and invested in the outcome of the conflict.

The narrative is driven by themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of war. The storytelling in Front Mission 2 is enhanced by its mature writing and complex character development, allowing players to experience the personal and political stakes at play.

Gameplay

Front Mission 2 builds upon the tactical RPG mechanics of its predecessor, offering a deep and rewarding gameplay experience. Players command squads of Wanzers, which are humanoid combat vehicles, across various battlefields. The game emphasizes strategic planning and careful resource management, as players must consider factors such as terrain, unit positioning, and enemy tactics.

Combat System

The combat system in Front Mission 2 is turn-based, with players and enemy forces taking turns to move and attack. Each Wanzer can be customized with different weapons, armor, and equipment, allowing for a high degree of personalization and strategy. Players must balance offense and defense while managing limited resources such as ammunition and energy.

One of the standout features of the gameplay is the introduction of the Link System. This system allows players to link multiple units together, enabling them to perform coordinated attacks. It adds a layer of tactical depth, as players must decide which units to link and how to best utilize their combined abilities. The Link System encourages thoughtful planning and can turn the tide of battle when used effectively.

Mission Structure

The game is structured around a series of missions, each with specific objectives and challenges. These missions take place across diverse environments, from urban cityscapes to rugged terrain. Players must adapt their strategies to the changing conditions and make strategic use of the environment to gain an advantage over enemy forces.

In addition to combat, Front Mission 2 includes non-combat segments where players can engage in activities such as purchasing new equipment, upgrading Wanzers, and gathering intelligence. These segments provide a break from the intense battles and allow players to prepare for upcoming challenges.

Graphics and Sound

Front Mission 2 was released on the original PlayStation, and for its time, it showcased impressive graphics and sound design. The game features detailed character sprites and meticulously designed Wanzers, each with a distinct aesthetic that reflects their function and faction.

Visuals

The isometric view used in battles provides a clear perspective of the battlefield, allowing players to plan their moves with precision. The environments are richly detailed, capturing the gritty and industrial feel of a war-torn future. Despite the limitations of the hardware, the game manages to convey a sense of scale and immersion through its visuals.

Audio

The sound design in Front Mission 2 complements its visual presentation. The game features a stirring soundtrack composed by Noriko Matsueda, which enhances the emotional impact of the story and the intensity of the battles. The music ranges from somber and reflective themes to adrenaline-pumping battle tracks, contributing to the game’s atmosphere.

Sound effects, such as the mechanical whirring of Wanzers and the explosive impact of weaponry, are well-crafted and add to the realism of the combat scenarios. Together, the graphics and sound create a cohesive sensory experience that draws players into the game’s world.

Legacy and Reception

Front Mission 2 is a significant entry in the Front Mission series and is often regarded as a classic within the tactical RPG genre. Upon its release, the game was praised for its engaging story, complex gameplay mechanics, and innovative features such as the Link System. It has been lauded for its ability to balance strategic depth with accessible gameplay, making it appealing to both newcomers and veterans of the genre.

The game received positive reviews from critics and players alike, with particular commendation for its narrative depth and character development. The intertwining stories of Ash Faruk, Lisa Stanley, and Thomas Norland provided a compelling narrative that resonated with players and elevated the storytelling standard for tactical RPGs.

Despite its success in Japan, Front Mission 2 was not initially released in Western markets, limiting its exposure to a broader audience. However, dedicated fans of the series have kept its legacy alive through fan translations and discussions, ensuring that its impact on the genre is not forgotten.

Conclusion

Front Mission 2 stands as a testament to the potential of tactical RPGs to deliver rich narrative experiences alongside strategic gameplay. Its intricate story, deep gameplay mechanics, and atmospheric presentation have cemented its place as a beloved classic. Although it did not receive the global recognition it deserved at the time of its release, its influence can be seen in subsequent entries in the Front Mission series and other games within the genre.

The game’s exploration of political intrigue, character-driven storytelling, and innovative mechanics have left a lasting impact on players and developers alike. Front Mission 2 remains a shining example of the tactical RPG genre’s ability to blend storytelling and strategy, offering a memorable experience that continues to resonate with fans of the series.