Story

Front Mission, released by Square in 1995 for the Super Famicom, is a tactical role-playing game set in a dystopian future. The game’s narrative is deeply woven into its complex world, presenting a storyline filled with political intrigue, warfare, and human drama. The game is set in 2090, featuring conflicts between two superpowers: the Oceania Cooperative Union (OCU) and the United States of the New Continent (USN). The story primarily follows the exploits of a young OCU officer, Lloyd Clive, whose life takes a drastic turn when his unit is ambushed during a mission on Huffman Island.

The story kicks off with Lloyd leading his squad on a reconnaissance mission, which unexpectedly turns into a battlefield after a surprise attack by the USN. This attack is part of a larger political maneuvering, leading to a cascading series of events that drag Lloyd and his allies into a web of conspiracy and betrayal. The narrative is rich in its portrayal of the human cost of war, as players witness Lloyd’s journey from a soldier following orders to a man seeking justice and truth. Throughout the game, players are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories, adding depth to the unfolding drama.

Gameplay

Front Mission is celebrated for its deep and strategic gameplay that set a precedent for future tactical RPGs. The game employs a grid-based tactical system where players control mechs known as Wanzers (short for Wanderung Panzer). These customizable mechs form the core of the gameplay, allowing players to modify various parts, including arms, legs, and weapons, to tailor each unit to specific combat roles.

The game is divided into different missions, each with its own objectives and environmental challenges. Players must carefully position their Wanzers, taking advantage of terrain and strategic placements to outmaneuver and outgun the enemy. The combat is turn-based, requiring players to think several moves ahead, much like a game of chess. Success in battle depends on effective resource management, strategic planning, and adaptability to changing battlefield conditions.

One of the standout features of Front Mission is its damage system. Each Wanzer part can be individually damaged or destroyed, affecting the unit’s combat capabilities. For instance, losing a weapon-bearing arm means the Wanzer can no longer use that weapon, adding a layer of complexity to combat strategy. This system encourages players to develop diverse strategies and prioritize targets carefully during engagements.

Graphics and Sound

Front Mission’s graphics were considered impressive for its time, especially for a game on the Super Famicom. The game features detailed sprite work and expansive battle maps that bring its futuristic world to life. The design of the Wanzers is particularly noteworthy, with each mech exuding a unique mechanical aesthetic that complements the game’s military theme.

Complementing the visuals is Front Mission’s compelling soundtrack, composed by Yoko Shimomura and Noriko Matsueda. The music score enhances the game’s atmosphere, with tracks that underscore the tension and drama of the storyline. The sound effects also play an integral role, from the clanking of mech joints to the explosive impact of weapons, contributing to the immersive experience.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Front Mission was met with critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging narrative. It was praised for pushing the boundaries of what tactical RPGs could achieve, influencing numerous games in the genre that followed. The success of Front Mission led to a series of sequels and spinoffs, expanding the game’s universe and exploring new storylines and gameplay innovations.

Front Mission’s influence extends beyond its immediate successors. The game’s emphasis on strategic depth and customization has been echoed in many modern tactical RPGs. Its storytelling approach, blending personal stories with broader geopolitical narratives, set a standard that many games strive to emulate today.

Despite its initial release being limited to Japan, Front Mission’s popularity eventually led to international releases, allowing a broader audience to appreciate its strategic brilliance and storytelling prowess. The game’s impact is also evident in the community of dedicated fans who continue to celebrate its legacy through discussions, fan art, and retrospectives.

Conclusion

Front Mission stands as a landmark title in the tactical RPG genre, celebrated for its intricate gameplay, compelling narrative, and impressive audiovisual presentation. Its legacy is marked by its influence on subsequent games and the lasting impression it left on players worldwide. As a pioneer of mech-based strategy games, Front Mission’s impact continues to be felt, ensuring its place in the annals of gaming history as a classic that defined a genre.