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Super Robot Wars EX, developed by Banpresto for the Super Famicom, is an iconic entry in the long-running Super Robot Wars series. Released in 1994, this tactical role-playing game stands out for its unique storyline, engaging gameplay mechanics, and the nostalgic appeal of featuring numerous beloved mecha from various anime series. This article delves into the game’s story, gameplay, graphics, sound, and its lasting legacy in the genre.
Story
Super Robot Wars EX takes place in the fantastical world of La Gias, a hidden underground realm beneath the Earth’s surface. The narrative is split into three distinct scenarios, each focusing on different characters and their respective plots. This segmented storytelling approach allows players to experience the broader conflict from multiple perspectives, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.
Scenario 1: Masaki Andoh
The first scenario follows Masaki Andoh, the pilot of the Cybuster. Masaki is summoned to La Gias to aid in the conflict against the forces of the antagonist, Shu Shirakawa. Throughout this scenario, players will navigate Masaki’s quest to understand his role in the war, all while grappling with his personal vendettas and the mysterious connections between La Gias and the surface world.
Scenario 2: Ryune Zoldark
The second scenario centers around Ryune Zoldark, another pivotal character in the universe. As the daughter of the antagonist Bian Zoldark from Super Robot Wars 2, Ryune’s story explores her attempts to reconcile her father’s legacy with her own ideals. This scenario delves into themes of redemption, responsibility, and the search for personal identity amidst war.
Scenario 3: Shu Shirakawa
The third and final scenario places players in the shoes of Shu Shirakawa himself. This unique perspective allows players to explore the motivations and machinations of the game’s primary antagonist. Shu’s story is one of intrigue, ambition, and the pursuit of power, providing players with a complex and morally ambiguous narrative that challenges their perceptions of good and evil.
Gameplay
Super Robot Wars EX is renowned for its intricate tactical gameplay. As a strategy RPG, the game combines turn-based combat with strategic unit placement on grid-based maps. Players must carefully maneuver their mecha units, taking into account terrain, enemy positions, and unit capabilities to achieve victory.
Combat Mechanics
The combat in Super Robot Wars EX is both engaging and challenging. Players control a team of mecha, each with unique abilities and weapons. During battles, players can issue commands for movement, attacks, and defensive maneuvers. The game emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, requiring players to consider the strengths and weaknesses of both their own units and enemy forces.
Customization and Progression
Customization is a key feature in Super Robot Wars EX. Players can upgrade their mecha, improving their stats and unlocking new abilities. This progression system allows for a tailored experience, as players can modify their units to suit their preferred playstyle. Additionally, pilots gain experience points, enhancing their skills and attributes, further contributing to the game’s depth.
Multiple Scenarios
The division of the game into three scenarios not only enriches the story but also provides distinct gameplay experiences. Each scenario features unique missions, objectives, and challenges, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout their journey in La Gias. This structure encourages replayability, as players can choose different paths and make varying strategic decisions in each playthrough.
Graphics and Sound
Super Robot Wars EX leverages the capabilities of the Super Famicom to deliver a visually appealing experience. The game’s graphics, while limited by the technology of its time, are colorful and detailed, capturing the essence of the mecha anime it draws inspiration from.
Visuals
The sprite work in Super Robot Wars EX is commendable, with each mecha and character sprite designed to resemble their anime counterparts. The battle animations, though simple, are dynamic and convey the intensity of the mecha combat. The game’s art style successfully blends the diverse aesthetics of the various series it features, creating a cohesive visual presentation.
Soundtrack
The game’s soundtrack is a highlight, featuring a range of tracks that complement the high-stakes battles and dramatic moments within the story. The music draws heavily from the anime series represented in the game, providing fans with a nostalgic auditory experience. Sound effects during combat enhance the immersion, from the clashing of mecha to the explosive impact of special attacks.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Super Robot Wars EX received positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and faithful representation of beloved anime mecha. The game’s unique narrative structure, which allowed players to experience the story from multiple perspectives, was particularly praised. This entry solidified the Super Robot Wars series’ reputation as a pioneer in the tactical RPG genre and contributed to its enduring popularity.
Influence on the Genre
Super Robot Wars EX influenced subsequent games within the series and the broader genre of tactical RPGs. Its emphasis on strategic depth, character-driven storytelling, and the integration of mecha from various anime series set a standard for future games. The successful blend of different anime universes into a single cohesive narrative has since become a hallmark of the series.
Fan Community
The game has cultivated a dedicated fan community over the years. Fans appreciate the nostalgia and complexity that Super Robot Wars EX offers, often revisiting the game to experience its challenging gameplay and intricate storylines. This enduring fanbase has contributed to the game’s legacy, ensuring its place as a cherished entry in the Super Robot Wars franchise.
Conclusion
Super Robot Wars EX remains a standout title in the Super Robot Wars series, celebrated for its engaging story, strategic gameplay, and nostalgic appeal. Its impact on the tactical RPG genre is undeniable, influencing subsequent entries in the series and inspiring other games within the genre. The game’s ability to weave together disparate anime narratives into a single, compelling experience has left a lasting legacy, making it a beloved classic among fans of mecha and strategy games alike.
