|
Did they ever take this more active targeting/dodging system into an SRW game? It's certainly an interesting attempt to merge the two games and their genres.
|
#
?
Apr 8, 2013 09:34
|
|
|
|
| # ? May 27, 2024 20:31 |
|
|
This was made by Winkysoft after Banpresto stopped relying on them for SRWs.
|
|
#
?
Apr 8, 2013 09:40
|
|
|
Glazius posted:Did they ever take this more active targeting/dodging system into an SRW game? It's certainly an interesting attempt to merge the two games and their genres. It wouldn't work out too well since SRW games use Spells and two-three of them increase hit/dodge to 100%.
|
|
#
?
Apr 8, 2013 16:04
|
|
|
Glazius posted:Did they ever take this more active targeting/dodging system into an SRW game? It's certainly an interesting attempt to merge the two games and their genres. No they haven't. SRW has occasionally used some interesting systems where you can attack the body parts of enemy robots to cripple them or make positioning have greater effects in combat but they haven't done action sequences. The best you'd probably get are the ACE (Another Century's Episode) games which are SRW in setting and plotting but are full action games. They're somewhat similar to Ace Combat (oh haha) except you get a giant robot to fight other giant robots instead of dogfighting in a plane.
|
|
#
?
Apr 8, 2013 18:03
|
|
|
Just a quick note - I have all the screens I need for the next update, but there's been a fault with my broadband that means I have to rely on a very weak and unreliable Wi-Fi signal for my internet. Since I live in a rather remote and rural part of England it'll be at least Monday before it gets fixed. I have a feeling any attempts to post an update until then will be an exercise in futility - the first page of the topic simply won't load half the time with my current connection.
|
|
#
?
Apr 12, 2013 16:44
|
|
|
Chapter Six: One Wing’s Promise Music: Intermission  Hello again. Last time we finally took Ned down for good. Unfortunately despite him being an irredeemable monster the act of taking another’s life was too much for Cage to bear. Before we move on to see how he’s taking it, it’s time for a few upgrades.  I wind up spending some money upgrading the armour on the Dreizehn, Justeen and Caliburnus. Each upgrade increases the armour rating by 40 points, so our LEV’s can be as tough as our Orbital Frames with only two or three upgrades.  I also stick a repair kit on the Justeen. Yukito’s had a few close scrapes in the past, so I think of this as a bit of insurance. Anyway, on to the next stage. There will be a lot of  Music: Black Ops   : End? This is only the beginning. We just got rid of one unnecessary element, is all. : Hmm…A lack of confidence is certainly not the issue. But you should realise that not everyone fears you. You don’t think that you have the power to place all responsibility on your secretary’s head like politicians do back home and get away with it, do you? : Well, I suggest you be careful. With the new Animus series being in the hands of BIS…I think it’s time for me to act. It would be nice to get permission to do that.:…What a joke. Do you think I don’t know that you’ve been sending your woman out? I can’t stop you from doing what you’re going to do, so get rid of the complacent act. It’s unpleasant.: Well, in that case… : What about Nadia?: If you want to use her as a woman, fine. But be careful when you use her as your assistant – her naivety is a double-edged sword. She can’t be trusted.: Again, that’s none of your business, but…don’t worry. There’s not a single soul I trust. Now, I’m off to stir up some trouble.Bolozof leaves the room.  :…budge…but, that Cage…could he be Vale? Heh…of course not…The screen fades out after this cryptic comment. When it comes back we’re in BIS HQ. Music: Every Day   : Only time will tell. I’ve never seen him like that… : I see…all this time he’s been letting the enemy live, so I can imagine. : It was bound to happen at some point. That’s just fighting.  : I don’t think he’s taking it seriously enough. How is he going to fight from now on?: Hey, don’t be like that. Unlike us, he was an upstanding citizen until just recently.  :…Why is everyone so nice to him?  : N-no, nothing… : (Interesting…) : I’m going to go check on him. I’m a little worried. :…Don’t.: That’s right. We need to wait for him to come out of his room of his own free will.  : Cut it out! You’re being so childish. : Childish? Yeah, so what if I am? He’s a child too, so I know how he feels. Can you convey what you can’t see? Can you convey what you can’t hear? Is it right to do NOTHING?! If that’s being considerate, I don’t ever want to think that way. I’m fine just the way I am. : Razma…:…In his state right now, I doubt he’ll be able to find an answer in any of us. : What does that mean?  :…redemption. Like he’s doing now.: Cage must know that it was the best thing he could do in that situation. Let’s give him time to think about things alone.:… : *Sigh* See, Razma, I think that’s one of your good qualities, but sometimes you need to stand on your own and face your own demons. The best thing we can do for him right now is not to hand him the answers, but support him while he figures things out for himself. : Semyl, you…: Err…uh-huh? :…sound ridiculous when you talk like that.  : You don’t need to talk like that when I’m around. Your speech doesn’t bother me, and moreover, I agree with Razma.I’m guessing that in the Japanese version Semyl speaks with a kansai dialect that gets dropped whenever Ares is in the room.  A door opens and Deckson comes in.  :…Can everyone listen for a moment, please? What’s wrong, Semyl?:… : She’ll bounce back eventually. So, what happened? Did you make up with your estranged wife? : Oh, no, I had no idea… Huh. So Deckson apparently has a wife from whom he separated at some point in the past. It’s not a massively important detail, but it adds a little to his character. :…Is it the OF?: Yes. The frame Cage was driving is clearly an Orbital Frame. If we can even call it that, that is. : Orbital Frame? It was hovering, and its capabilities were impressive, but wasn’t it on the Bonaparte to begin with?: Your point being?: The Bonaparte was maintained by the UNSF. In other words, that frame was probably constructed by some big-shot Earthlings. : Earth has no need of the OF, and they still see it only as another version of the LEV. If Earth were to become serious about its development…Mars would surely lose. :…That is not a possibility at this point in time.: Yiii!! You almost gave me a heart attack!!:…Apologies. Ms. O’Connell sent me. The one behind all this violence and these secretive construction projects seems to be the Inspection Chief of the UNSF, Dezeele Zephyrs. : Ned mentioned that name too. :…had heard that he was influential, but why would he want to be involved in something so dangerous?:…I don’t know.: Perhaps it’s like this. The Bonaparte accident came as a surprise to him, and he decided to take back the OF that he had commissioned. Meanwhile he worked to conceal the incident…of course if he failed to acquire it, he would merely destroy it.:…: The OF is a weapon so powerful that it can change the fundamental laws of space. It’s true that it wouldn’t be all that strange if someone recognised its potential early on. The politicians would never OK it, so it would be faster to actually show them what it could do…and it would probably give Zephyrs more political leverage. :…that.: If that’s the case then all the cruel actions and clandestine operations make sense.: For future reference, Ms. O’Connell requests permission to research the frame in question. Would that be all right?: There’s no reason to deny her.A high-pitched beeping sound interrupts the conversation.   : He didn’t…! The screen and music fade out.   :…be alone…And think about things…)The drone of an engine can be heard in the background – Cage is clearly not in his Orbital Frame. :… :…Where are…you going…? : Hunh?! Who…Aaah!!*Crash!!!*  Music: Pulse  :…Cage…: M-M-M-Myona?! :… : Myona? Are you okay?! Myona!! Wake up!!:…: Myona! Myona! Don’t die! : What, Myona? I can’t hear you! You have to talk louder!!Geez, Cage, give the girl some space.  …Or not. :…What? :… :…  :…: Um…how did it go…  :…just weird!! : Come on, you don’t have to laugh that hard.: Hahahahaha…but that was really funny. :…: Hmm?  :…you.:… :…Cage?:…I’m sorry, but…I just can’t do that.: Why not? Were you lying when you said you couldn’t let them do things like that? : I wasn’t lying. But my hands are dirty now. I’m no different from them.:…That’s it?:…I don’t want to get on that thing anymore, either. It broke our promise.: Oh… : So you ran away?: I didn’t run away. I just don’t want to fight anymore. I quit BIS. I just want to live quietly…: So you are running away. From everyone. And from yourself, too.:…: What would have happened if you hadn’t attacked Ned? We don’t know. And there’s no guarantee that everyone would have been saved. But one thing’s for sure. I like the way this scene is handled. Killing Ned was the only surefire way to save everyone, but even so Cage is still broken up about having to do it. I mean, killing someone isn’t something that can be done casually unless you’re crazy or have been trained to do it, and Cage is neither. Even so his decision to run away is wrong and Myona is quite happy to call him on it. It won’t be the last time she’ll slap him out of doing something stupid, either.  : Cage, I remembered something. : Really? : It’s not clear, but there was some accident…an impact, and flames everywhere…Father and mother are on the other side of the flames…but I can’t do anything, and I’m just crying…:… : At the time, I was afraid to remember any more. But then I met you, and everyone else, and we started fighting together…and then I realised. I want to be stronger so I can protect people. I don’t want to regret not doing something I could have done. I can’t just stand there crying…because now there’s something we can do!:…Aren’t you scared at all? : You’re so strong…The conversation is interrupted by the sound of metal scraping against rock. : Huh? The text should say Scene 06: One Wing’s Promise Music: Danger  Five enemy LEV’s vs. Cage in the Blade? Oh dear, this isn’t good.  : I see that! Now be quiet! You have the right to…nothing!! If you put up a fight, we won’t hesitate to shoot you. Now disembark quietly.:… : Cage, let’s go!:…I’m sorry. : C-Cage? Where are you going to go? You’re not going to turn yourself in, are you? :…No.:…Myona?: I’m sick of watching people get hurt! If you have to go, then I’m going with you.: No, I can’t let you do that. If we both get caught…: Then let’s find a way for both of us to be safe. Don’t give up! : Come on, hide!: Shoot!: Eeek!! But suddenly, the Orcrist arrives!  Music: Offense and Defence : Hm?: Who’re you?! :…Earth’s customs?: Tsk. Another terrorist.: Mebius!: I must say I never expected you to act so aggressively…I must say, I’m a little impressed. You too, Myona.: Heh heh…heh… : Ares…: So secretive, Cage…Or did you decide you don’t like me anymore?: No…no, it’s not like that!: Heh heh…I can read you like a book. Anyway, we’ll talk later.:…Sorry. : Yes!: I haven’t introduced myself to you yet. I’m Warren, the mercenary who never made it. Nice to meet you.: It’s…it’s nice to meet you too, sir!Deckson and the LEV’s show up immediately afterwards.  : Deckson…: Escape…the hallmark of a troubled protagonist.Yukito has played this game before.  : Now is not the time to be shouting nonsense! We don’t know when their support group is going to arrive!  : Everyone’s coming here…just for me? : They’re all on their way.: We’ll talk later. For now, get away from there.: Let’s go, Cage.: Um…okay. Mission Map:  The game gives us control at this point. Now this is a special mission in that it’s split into two parts with two different maps. Any damage, ammo and energy use will carry over into the second half. In other words we really want to get this over with as fast as possible.  Luckily all the enemies here are level 5 scrubs in pitifully weak Security LEV’s. There’s not much point in covering this fight in any particular detail; Warren can oneshot every single one of these enemies with his basic attack. All that’s needed is to pull Cage back, wait for the enemy to follow him and then initiate Operation Facesmash. Strangely Razma seems to be absent from our lineup…  This is my second turn. The AI won’t get another chance to move since Warren is about to murder him.  Bye bye.  : They…they did all that just for me…: (Oh, Cage…)BIS withdraws shortly afterwards. Music: Pulse  : Hey, what happened? : Cage. I understand how you feel, but that wasn’t the way to handle it.:…I know.: Well, we’re glad that you’re okay. Please don’t let it happen again.:…I won’t. :…good idea to be piloting a frame feeling like this…):…Cage. :… : Wait a minute. Where’s Razma?: Ah, the idiot. He’s… : Whoa?! Was that the radio?: Hey. You look well.: Razma? Where are you?: Heh heh! Guess! It’s obvious once you hear this…Hey, everyone! It’s the boy who broke the switch on the bombs and saved you all! I know you’re a little sleepy, but…come on everyone, say thank you! : He…llo?: You’re the little girl from this afternoon! : Hunh?! :…Ah yes, the classic anime trope of “Little kid makes a marriage promise that the female lead takes completely seriously”. I’d like it if, for once, something like this happened and the hero’s love interest wasn’t bothered by it because, you know, kids and all that.  : Um…er…not at all… : *Snicker*Razma smacks Bluehair McScarchin from offscreen. : Ow! What?!:…Want me to do it again? :…me! Don’t forget that!: WHAT?! Me and Semyl?! What is he talking about…? : *Sigh* Sorry ‘bout that. He’s suddenly started turning into a little man recently. Take it easy on him. You probably already know, but that’s the orphanage where I grew up. So all those kids are like my brothers and sisters.: Oh…: So! How’s it feel? You saved these kids!:… :…the smiles on these kid’s faces!: Hee hee…: I…: You can’t put a value on human life. But even so, you saved many lives today. That makes you better than any of those guys who spout big ideas but don’t do anything. : Nobody’s going to criticise what you did…so just come back. Okay?: Razma…Everything seems to be going well, but then… Music: Danger  Razma is cut off by the sound of a large explosion!  : What?! Razma? Razma!! : *Crackle*: Razmaaa!!: Razma! : Yes sir! : Razma! Where are you?: Cage, look! The orphanage!! : How could they do this?! Is it the army again? Where is everyone? :…training tool for this Bizac…heh heh…how lucky I am that my hapless prey is coming right to me. This may turn out to be more fun than I thought…) : Mr…Mr. Bolozof…That is an orphanage. There seems to be no reason to destroy it…so why?: It may prove problematic to Earth’s purposes in the future. What’s the harm in getting rid of it now?:…Unlike Ned, who took a twisted pleasure in hurting everyone he encountered, Bolozof just doesn’t care. Where Ned was a cackling lunatic Bolozof is a cold, calculating sociopath. This makes him a far greater threat, though he does have his dumb moments. Like blowing up a Martian orphanage in front of his Martian girlfriend, then offering the flimsiest excuse ever when she calls him on it.  :…them, and find out where they’re hiding the Animus! Let them know that the Bizac is not an average LEV! :…Yes sir.: Oh no…where are Razma and the others?:…NO!! RAZMAAA!! Both enemy LEV’s near the ruined orphanage explode!  : Huh?Music: Onward to Victory  : Razma! You’re alright!: You were a little late…: Yay, Semyl!: Jojo!: What, are you crying? What are you going to do without me, Semyl? : You’re safe too…  :…okay!: Yup. That’s the first priority. Look after them, okay?: Okay. : It’ll cost you.: Name your price.:…Just your life.: *Snicker* What a shame. You have all that talent, but inside you’re just another dumb Martian.: What?! :…there would be no suffering…heh heh!: What did you say?: Who’s that? : You’ve hurt so many people…and yet you act like nothing has happened?!: Of course. I have no sympathy for Enders. They’re not the same as us Earth folk. :…other hand, you and your group…!:…Yes? So what? Are you going to fight me in that useless machine?: (If only Pharsti were here…): Pharsti…The music stops abruptly, and an odd chime rings out…  : Pharsti!! Music: Z.O.E. 2173 : (The Animus? Heh heh…today is a lucky day indeed. Now I’ll even have a souvenir for Zephyrs!): Pharsti…wh-why? : I heard you calling. I have an obligation to protect my master.:…: Don’t worry. If you command it, I will fight. : Cage?:…:…to let me on board right now!: Cage… : Hurry!: Roger that.Cage boards the OF. : Master, I…: Not now, Pharsti. We have to get him!: Roger!: Myona! : You can’t fight in that vehicle all by yourself. Please stay out of harm’s way.: But…: Myona…don’t worry. I’m alright now. Okay?: (Cage…) Myona retreats, and a bunch of enemy reinforcements appear across the city. Player Phase Music: Galactica Enemy Phase Music: Sudden Assault  Mission Map:  We get control now. As usual, let’s check out the new units.    Cage’s LEV has become the Orbital Frame ‘Testament’. It has all the advantages of a regular Orbital Frame – it floats, has high mobility and its basic attacks cost nothing. It also has the highest HP and armour rating of any unit so far. Now, Bolozof was going on about how amazing his new ‘Bizac’ is. Let’s take a look at it and see what all the hype is about.    As expected, Bolozof and his Bizac S are a cut above Ned. It’s a wall of HP and armour and its Beam Gun and Laser Saber make it dangerous at any range. Like Ned he also has his own Burst Attack, Lunatic Sin. For the record, Nadia is level 12 and riding a slightly weaker Bizac. It has a regular Laser Sword instead of a Laser Saber, 500 fewer HP and no Burst Attack. She’s far easier to deal with than Bolozof, as we will shortly see. That’s not all, though – the regular enemies have also been given a boost.   The Security LEV’s we faced in the beginning have been upgraded into Alpha variants, with improved damage and toughness across the board. There’s also an entirely new model in play.   The Model C Alpha has a Beam Gun. They start appearing on generic units from this point onwards.  The pilots of all these units are tougher too. We’re fighting proper soldiers rather than security guards and peacekeepers.  First off, everyone crosses the river. Razma is already on the other side and has a clear shot at the missile LEV to the south.   With that done my turn is over.  The AI uses its turn to move its units north. Nadia also moves up, but it’ll be a while before she reaches us. Bolozof stays put – he won’t move until all the generics are dead.  These guys are much tougher than what we’ve been facing before. This one took Deckson, Phil and Ares working together to take down, and that’s after Razma shot it up last turn. It’s worth it, though, since they give out 800 cash each.  Razma keeps sniping.   Mebius takes half a guy’s HP off with one attack. Despite their improved toughness our Orbital Frames will still rip these foes to pieces.  Time to try out Testament.  Its basic attack animations are the same as they were for Cage’s LEV, but it’ll be getting some new attacks over the course of the game.  Huh. This is going quicker than I expected.  Time to let the AI have a crack.  The first move it makes is to attack Warren.  My dodging skills fail me, sadly. The other LEV and Nadia move up again.  Here’s how things currently stand. First let’s get rid of the two regular enemy LEV’s.  As well as wolverine claws, the Vjaya also has a ranged attack.   It does some nice damage.  Phil and Deckson attack it as well, but it’s not quite enough.  So Razma lends a hand.  Just one more normal enemy left.  Yukito weakens him…  Then Semyl comes in for the kill.   She also scores a much-needed level from this kill.  Now Nadia is all that’s left of the attacking force. Bolozof is still hanging out down south.    A critical hit takes off half her HP. I end my turn and see what she does in response.  Nadia moves up and attacks Warren. Those are some nasty numbers in her favour.   My dodging skills do not fail me this time, luckily. In addition, Warren has some dialogue if he and Nadia fight.  :…much stronger, with more capabilities.Interesting… Anyway, Bolozof finally decides to move up and support his girlfriend, but she’s going to be dogpiled long before he arrives.  Yeah, Nadia isn’t going to last too long here.  Particularly since the Vjaya now has access to both of its Burst Attacks.    Nadia gives Boss exp, so that’s a plus.  Meanwhile, Semyl turns on the nitro.  YOU GOT BOOST POWER!!   Boosters make Semyl viable.  As do three consecutive level-ups.  There’s no fanfare for getting rid of Nadia. Bolozof will most likely be in range next turn.  …Yup, he sure is. Now, the thing about Bolozof is that he retreats once his HP drops below 1,200. It is possible to kill him, and if you do it nets you a nice amount of bonus cash and exp. So let’s do that.  First we wear him down a bit.  If you engage Bolozof with Cage you get some extra dialogue.  : What? What is that supposed to mean?: Ah, you’re going to pretend you don’t know anything. That’s fine. I’ll take it back by force! As an aside, this is the average reticule size when fighting Bolozof.  That should be enough. Now we can comfortably kill him in one hit.  The Vjaya’s really been shining so far. Bloodsucker is its melee Burst Attack.   Good gracious. Poor guy didn’t get a chance to attack even once. He’s another recurring villain, so I’ll show his attacks off another time.  :…like this next time.):…Fall back. Villain exit stage left. Not pursued by a bear, though. Warren killed them all. Music: Every Day :…Enemy inactive. Switching to Alert Mode.: *Phew* You saved us from a sticky situation. Thank you, Pharsti.: Yes.: Pharsti, in that instance you say, “You’re welcome.”: You’re wel…come? : Exactly. :…I did hurt a person, and I’d like to avoid that from now on…But if there are people that I can save, I see now that I can’t just run away. If it weren’t for Myona…and everyone else, I wouldn’t be able to see it this way.: I understand. We’re going back, move your machine.: Yes sir!One thing that should be becoming clear is that Cage is very dependant on other people. First Ares, and now Myona as well. Keep this in mind as the story continues, because it’s an important aspect of his character.  : (So that’s the Bizac, eh? Heh heh, I see the resemblance…)Everyone else leaves, leaving Cage and Pharsti alone. Music: Pulse : Pharsti…Myona told me that I was running away from myself.:…: I blamed everything on you and ran away. “It wasn’t my fault! You were to blame!”…that’s what I thought. : I…:…But if you hadn’t done that then, someone could have been hurt…no, someone would definitely have been killed. I just didn’t get it. I do have the ability to solve problems without hurting others. : Thank you. But there were more reasons behind your actions, weren’t there?:…: Even if it had worked out that one time, there’s no guarantee that it would work the next time. If that happened, I might never get over it. You didn’t just save the children, you saved me too…Am I right?:…My responsibility is only to protect the designated frame runner. I only fulfilled my own obligation. : Are you blushing?:… :…help me out for a while longer?:…I am a Navigation System. I am nothing more than a program. If you give the command…: Have you forgotten? I think of you as a friend. I guess that’s kind of selfish of me, but…:…by ‘Testament’, I was referring to our agreement.: Huh? :…name, so I gave myself one. If it does not appeal to you, I have 3,000 alternatives to choose from…: Wha?! No, that’s okay! But…why are you bringing this up now?: Because it seems you have forgotten.: Forgotten what?: We already have an agreement. Cage, you are my one and only master. : Allow me to explain. Due to the readjustment I went through to better serve you, I respond only to the neural pulses in your central nervous system.  : Oh…that’s why.: So, I hope you will take responsibility for what you’ve done to me!: What? Responsibility?: I was joking.Oh, Japan and your stock anime phrases.  Of course, there’s doubtless some depraved fanfic writer out there who’s described in loving detail the exact consequences of such things. : Never mind.: Aw, I’m sorry. Say it again, I promise I’ll react this time.: Request denied.: Come on, don’t be that way! : Come on, Pharsti…I have to say I like Pharsti a lot more than ADA. It helps that she gets the best lines. Anyway, the screen fades out at this point.  : I’m fine. Just a little tired. : Heh, I know. It can be pretty draining to spend time with Cage.: Yes…but there’s something about him. I can’t leave him alone. Cage is a strange boy that way.: Yes…he is.: Myona! Where you at? :…Good night.The screen fades out once more…then fades back in at an unfamiliar location. Music: Tension   : Yeah…I was worried for a short while, but things are headed in a positive direction.  : Pharsti, too?: We won’t look a gift horse in the mouth. Anyway, that’s a trivial matter.: Heh heh…I’m looking forward to it. I’ll contact you again soon. Freedom to Mars.: Freedom to Mars.  And that’s the end of the sixth episode. Sorry this took so long to get out. A combination of internet problems and work got in the way. But that’s alright, because next mission is going to be a super fun incredible ESCORT MISSION!! I can hardly wait. Scintilla fucked around with this message at 21:15 on Jul 3, 2013 |
|
#
?
Apr 15, 2013 19:23
|
|
|
Man I forgot all about Razma's badass line. This game is chockfull of great characters  I could never take Balozof seriously. "Let me show you my power!" *IAS Dodge* *IAS Murder* "You are pitiful fools! You are not worthy to face me" *fling cape, run with tail between legs* It was the same thing with Ned, but NOBODY took Ned seriously.
|
|
#
?
Apr 15, 2013 20:02
|
|
|
Oh gently caress me I think I know who mysterious 2 is. Mysterious 1 is probably Ares unless someone else at the BIB shares his sprite work.
|
|
#
?
Apr 15, 2013 20:30
|
|
|
Oh, hey, that game. It was my first foray in SRPG land, and it was pretty fun, even if the OFs snap the game clean after past a certain point while most of the other bots struggle to scratch the paint on most enemies. Out of curiosity, while you show off both paths and both mutually exclusive characters in the good path? Despite playing the game a couple of times, I only recently learnt there was branching decisions in it, so I'm kind of interested.
|
|
#
?
Apr 16, 2013 00:19
|
|
|
Only one more battle now before we've passed where I played up to. I'm interested to see where the story goes from there. Also, if nothing else, we can see quite clearly why characters like Dingo and Ken would join up with BARHAM, despite the puppy-kickingly evil commander. Because Earth apparently challenged him to a puppy kicking contest, and took the first kick.
|
|
#
?
Apr 16, 2013 00:25
|
|
|
Iceclaw posted:Oh, hey, that game. It was my first foray in SRPG land, and it was pretty fun, even if the OFs snap the game clean after past a certain point while most of the other bots struggle to scratch the paint on most enemies. Out of curiosity, while you show off both paths and both mutually exclusive characters in the good path? Despite playing the game a couple of times, I only recently learnt there was branching decisions in it, so I'm kind of interested. I mentioned in the OP that I'd be doing both story paths. As for the characters, I assume you mean Nadia and Twede. I plan to recruit Twede in the normal path and Nadia in the alternate path, so I can show them both off.
|
|
#
?
Apr 16, 2013 07:11
|
|
|
Ah, great. There are rear end in a top hat shadow conspirators on BOTH sides of this thing.
|
|
#
?
Apr 21, 2013 15:30
|
|
|
Chapter Seven: Opposing Tracks Music: Intermission  It’s upgrade time again, and thanks to last mission we have a lot of money to throw around.  I boost everyone’s HP by one level apart from the Justeen, which gets two levels since it’s the frailest. Once again the Blade gets nothing.  I also replace the Booster Semyl used last mission. We’ll be fighting in built up areas for a while yet, so it’ll come in handy when she starts lagging behind. Let’s get a move on. Music: Day In, Day Out   :…time.: OK. See ya, Pharsti.: Yes. Good-bye, Cage.A door opens and Myona walks in. : Good work. Here.: What's this? : Oh. Thanks! I'll have some now... *Gulp*...*Choke*...Eeegheghe!: Are you okay? : (Gross! How could anything possibly taste so bad?): Oh... You didn't like it?: N-no! It's really good! : Uh…great?There’s a very similar scene to this that happens in the Super Robot Wars games. It’s a running gag where one female character’s health drink is hideously unpalatable to nearly everybody.  : Cage. : Oh, Robin. How's it going? Have you had any new discoveries?: Yes, thank to you. But there are still a number of unresolved issues... We're so close.: If there's anything at all that I can do, please tell me. :…we still don't know... This is an incredible specimen.: You're very knowledgeable about machines. And skilled.: Well, I've been around them for a while. Thank you for your help today.: Not at all. Let's go, Myona. Good-bye.Cage and Myona leave as the screen fades out. But it seems the scene isn’t done with Robin just yet… Music: Tension  : I don't think it is a good idea to become too close with them. : Don't worry. Work is work, and I'm getting what I have to get done, done. Or are you going to report this? Well, report me if you like; I know you could.: It's fine if you understand. I agree, the rate of progress is on schedule....if we can continue at this pace.It looks like Robin and Twede also have their own agendas regarding BIS. There are plots within plots going on here, and neither the heroes nor the villains are exempt from nefarious machinations. Part of the beauty of this game is playing through it a second time knowing the plot and realising that everything that happens later on was foreshadowed earlier in the story. The screen fades out for real this time. When it comes back, it’s inside BIS HQ. Music: Black Ops  : Ah, perfect timing. The other day there was an anti-tax increase demonstration, and there was a skirmish between civilians and the UNSF. There were a few casualties.: Casualties at a protest?: Yeah. Apparently some civilians fired at UNSF troops. Well, that's according to a report from Earth. They say that it started out as a fight between the parties involving LEVs.: That's just the dumbest thing I've ever heard. What kind of protester starts shooting? It'd just give Earthlings a reason to wipe out everyone opposing the taxes. This has to be some kind of propaganda! : It's unnatural that they have all this evidence, isn't it? And take a close look at this picture; there's the UNSF LEV that was acting as riot control...: That looks like the LEV that we fought at the orphanage...! : Bolozof's frame...He's Earth's worst export, a military man. It's highly possible... He doesn't think of Martians as being human, so he would do something like that. : Regardless of the instigator, this cannot happen ever again. There is another demonstration scheduled today, so we will stand by at the scene. : Of course. We'll wait in ambush. If nothing happens, we will do nothing... But if by chance something does happen, we are the only ones who can stop it.: Where's John's team? Aren't they supported by Ms. O'Connell also?: Er... We have more friends?: Yes. There are a few groups like ours, but not too many. Recently, a number of them lost the resources to remain active. :...They're gone. It happened two days ago. It wasn't picked up by the media. : Oh...: Let's go, Boss. If nothing happens we just come home. If something does, we try to stop it. Right?: That's right. : Well, in that case I'll make a picnic basket! Can't fight when you're hungry! Oh, but don't expect anything too fancy, we only have ingredients for sandwiches... : I think it's a good idea. You should eat when you can; it's very important.: Why... Food also has a relaxing effect, which is a good thing. Especially when everyone is really nervous, like we are now.: Oh...Phil, you... : Er... This is the least I can do for everyone.  : No cucumbers in my sandwich.Okay, so it seems very likely that Bolozof is involved in a false flag operation, riling up the people of Mars so that the UNSF has an excuse to stomp all over them. Boy, I sure hope we don’t have to protect any worthless civilians this time around…  This glitchy mess should read ‘Scene 07: Opposing Tracks’. Music: Tragedy  : Stop whining. Work is work...and besides, we have to make sure that it's not a replay of last time.: I know. If we let the Earthling UNSF in on this, they'll do whatever they want and call it 'riot control'. Oh, here come the protest groups.  : Earth exploits its position and forces its tyranny upon us. Are we going to allow this to continue? No, we cannot! All we ask for are basic rights that we deserve! What is wrong with that? Are they trying to tell us that we are not worth our human rights?  :…not have enough power to make a difference. That is why we want you to lend a hand, and support the cause. Please don't let our sad history repeat itself. Justice on Mars!! Let us fight for a bright future for our children! : Yeahhhh!! : The government doesn't care about us! We have to look out for ourselves!! :...They're really riled up. They could start a war right here.: Is it safe to be away from the frames?: No worries. There are things you don't see unless you're on the ground...probably.: Probably?!Cage breaks off as the sound of a commotion draws near. : Hmm. Wonder what happened...?: Hey, Cage! Wait!  : *Pant* *Pant*: Huh? What happened?: Oh, er, I was walking and this child collapsed suddenly.:...?:...What?: Nothing. It looks like a slight case of anemia to me. Some rest in the shade should fix it… : How did you know my name?!: It was engraved on the backside of that pendant. I have great eyesight. You got that from your boyfriend. Recently...am I right?:...Heh heh. It was a gift, but it was a long time ago.: Ah... So, you've been very careful with it. Which means I have no chance? You can bring your little sister along too....Dammit, Razma. : Ha, ha.... You're quite amusing. I make it a point not to associate with little boys. And also, we're not sisters. I was just passing through. :…eyes when you brought her here.: Wha... That's.... Anyway, take this child to a safe place soon! Good day!Nadia runs off, no doubt to help Bolozof murder her fellow Martians. : Aw...there she goes. You got dumped.:...: Razma?:...Er...excuse me?: Hm? Yes? :…soon. Thanks!: What?!? He...hey!: Come on, Cage!: Huh? Oh, OK… : (Heh heh heh... Here we go...): (It's time, I guess we'll begin.)The music fades out, then a loud gunshot is heard. Music: Danger : Whah?!?: Gunshots! : Stop overreacting. It's just a gun. Handle it calmly.: Task completed...we will now join the main group.: (Heh heh ...perfect...)Alpha LEV’s appear in a cordon around the entire area.  : An UNSF LEV? We are conducting an investigation now.... : If you get in our way we'll have to control you too. If you don't want anything bad to happen to you, stay out of it.: What?! This is under the jurisdiction of the UCM Security Keeping Force! Besides...  : Aaaarrgh.... Why?! : You...dirtbags!! This is clearly a breach of protocol...: What protocol? Acemos has no obligation to act in accordance with any protocol.: Acemos?! Special Task Force Acemos? I get it... So the whole thing was a setup!: Precisely. : Aaaaaarrrggghhhh! : (Even if they are Martians...It's unbelievable that they would act against the Security Officers, who are on their side... They're acting as though they've gone insane.): Lieutenant. The obstacle has been removed.: OK. Now rub out those dangerous rioters. Completely.: Yes sir! You are all under arrest! Don't move! You don't want to move another step! The construction LEV takes a step forwards.  : Don't do it! Stop!The Acemos LEV naturally slaughters him. : Eeeeeeeeek!! : I instructed you specifically not to move, but you displayed blatant rebellious spirit. We will have to end this riot by force!So basically, the civilians = the 99%, Earth = the 1% and Acemos = the US Police Force. The Mars Security Forces = the Tea Party and BIS = Adbusters. There are even false flag operations and media manipulation. My ham-handed analogy makes this game politically relevant.  :…as an excuse to act against them, while offering them no protection! Prepare yourselves! We're going to protect the demonstrators!All the BIS units spawn around the protestors. : What a dirty plan... We can't let it happen!: Whew... It was pretty boring just sitting there... (Where is Bolozof?.... I don't see that machine of his anywhere...) :…are.): Demonstrators on your LEVs, I am on your side! We will act as your shield! Flee to the south!: What? What is going on?: Let's get out of here!! : OK, everyone, we are going to protect them as they head down south. Good luck!: Got it.: Yes sir!: (The person who fired the first shot looked an awful lot like Nadia... Nah, it can't be...)Player Phase Music: Sortie Enemy Phase Music: Sudden Assault  Mission Map:  The game gives you control at this point. And joy of joys, we have an escort mission on our hands.    There are five of these Construction LEV’s right in the middle of the city, and it’s our job to cover for them while they escape to the south. BIS has strategically positioned themselves between the Acemos forces and the protestors, so the enemies to the west, east and north won’t be too much trouble…  No, it’s these assholes who are going to screw everything up for us. The AI is going to shepherd all the Construction LEV’s over that bridge, whereupon those missile and beam gun-toting LEV’s will tear them apart. Now, the Construction LEV’s are tough enough to take maybe one hit from an enemy without dying…but that’s it. To be fair, we don’t have to save all the Construction LEV’s. The only victory condition here is to destroy every enemy on the map. But every civilian LEV you save gives you a bonus 1,000 cash, and an extra 5,000 for saving everyone is a very nice reward.  Also of note is this little building off to the side – the L. Server. This will be important in just a moment.  The first thing to do is to move Warren down and begin taking down the rear end in a top hat LEV’s down south. The enemy to the northwest isn’t a threat yet since its missiles have a range of five squares.   Nice, but not enough to get rid of it.  Someone has to deal with the surrounding LEV’s – they aren’t a threat now but they soon will be. Semyl is a good choice due to her low mobility.   She scores a lucky critical. You may also have noticed that I moved Cage down a bit – he’s going to be vital in destroying the enemies to the south.   Hmm…the Edge’s cannon could do with an upgrade.  Razma takes a shot and hits. That’s it for our western units.  In the east, the first thing to do is to move both Ares and Yukito as far south as they can go.  Mebius also moves south and attacks an enemy with her Split Blade.   The key in this mission is to inflict as much damage as possible in the shortest amount of time whilst scrambling to take out the southern enemies.  Phil deals some scratch damage before I end my turn. Since there are a lot of enemies I’ll give you guys the condensed version of events.  The enemy who got roughed up by Phil and Mebius attacks Phil and hits him.  The foe who got Absoluted last turn attacks Warren, but Warren eats bears and shits fur coats so he misses.  The south-western LEV moves up and attacks Semyl. This is worrying since it brings him close to the column of protestors.  More futile attacks on Warren.  Deckson also gets shot at.  Mebius evades another enemy. The enemy turn ends and the civilian LEV’s all move three spaces south. At the start of our second turn a scene plays out.  : What?: The Local Server is over there.: Local…Server?: I believe it is affiliated with NUT. If it is possible, please transport an OF to that point and stand by. It may be possible to procure additional weapons and other specialised modules by doing so.: What do you mean? :…the server. From now on, if you see a server and the situation allows it, please move an OF to the server and wait until the data is transferred…Once the data is obtained, it is possible to build new features into the OF.: That’s a bit complicated for me…but you’re saying that if the OF is placed on top of that thing, you can get new functions?: Precisely.: I understand, but at times like this I need to help people instead. I’ll keep it in mind, though.: Yes, the decision is entirely up to you. Here it is – the building I pointed out earlier. Also Cage is full of poo poo, we want that server and we want it now. If we finish the mission without getting the upgrade from the server it’s gone forever.  Mebius is the closest, so I move her down towards the server and engage an enemy with her Split Sword at the same time. The yellow targeting cursor makes the selected units blink so sometimes they don’t show up in screencaps.    Meanwhile Phil stays put and just repairs himself. His job is to bait the foes around him so that they ignore the civilian LEV’s.  Down south things are looking good – we should be able to destroy the two southern missile LEV’s in one turn. The ones wielding beam guns won’t have enough range to engage the civilian LEV’s.   Warren finishes off one…      And Ares/Yukito take down the other one.  Here’s where we run into a problem. The missile LEV next to Semyl is in range of the civilian procession. Semyl and Cage are nearby but the enemy is inside the minimum range of Semyl’s big guns. It’s unlikely that we can take him out this turn.   Yeah, that tiny laser blade isn’t going to do much good…  Now if Cage scored a critical hit…  No such luck, of course.  This foe looks like he’s trying to break away and attack the procession, but luckily Deckson is still in range. The phantom unit cursor strikes again, but rest assured, there’s a machinegun LEV there.   Since he was already pretty badly damaged the hit puts him down for good.  Razma finishes off another injured enemy, ending my turn. We’re in a pretty good position right now and should be able to save everyone barring some kind of disaster.  As expected, the missile LEV immediately takes a shot at a civilian LEV.  The Acemos forces have high enough stats compared to the civilians that they will never miss.  One more hit and he’s done.   Phil successfully baits two enemy LEV’s into ignoring the convoy, though he does take a hit in the process.  One of the northern LEV’s I’ve been ignoring so far decides to take a shot at Razma.    It doesn’t work.   OF’s are fairly resistant to ballistic attacks, but energy attacks can still put the hurt on them.   If all goes well both southern foes should be dead by the end of my next turn.  More baiting by Phil.  Agh no Phil why are you such an awful pilot   Ugh. At least that’s the final enemy action this turn.  Alright then. The three enemy LEV’s in this screenshot are the ones we really have to kill this very turn in order to ensure the safety of the procession.  So let’s take care of that.   Huh. It strikes me that I have yet to show off the Durandal II’s ranged attack. It has terrible range and is far less powerful than its melee attacks, but I’ll get around to showing it sooner or later.    That’s one down.    Two down.      And that’s the last of them. The civilian LEV’s are pretty much completely safe now.  In the north I move Mebius over the server and grab the delicious data. We’ll find out exactly what we’re getting out of it after the end of the mission.  Phil’s job is done, so I have him run away and heal up.  I then move Deckson over to give him some fire support.  That just leaves Razma and this guy near the top.   That’s it for my turn.  The LEV Razma targeted last turn hits back.  He manages to score a hit.    The game of ‘Let’s kick Phil’ continues. He just barely survives.  The civilian LEV’s continue to retreat, and one manages to cross the invisible line allowing him to vanish off the map.  Now it’s time to start moving everyone back up. Someone needs to save Phil, too.  The Vjaya is in the running as the best Orbital Frame in the game. It’s fast, hits hard and later gains some abilities that let it truly ruin an enemy’s poo poo.   Critical hit, bitch.  Run, Phil, run!   Razma finishes off his opponent.  Now it’s just Deckson left.  Every little helps, I guess. With only two enemies left, I’d say this part of the mission is all but over.   Of course they both attack Phil.   Another two civilians escape.   I start my next turn by having Mebius kill the missile LEV.  Phil moves north and repairs himself.    Just one more hit…   Acemos forces – dispatched.  The destruction of all enemies prompts the remaining civilians to get the hell out of dodge.  …Of course, it’s not over yet. Bolozof appears ready to do battle, right…next…to Phil. Oh god. : It’s that frame! : Come back!: If you want to live out the rest of your years in peace, don’t order me around. You’ve got your own problems to take care of.: You…: Relax. I’ve got ‘proof’ that the demonstrators fired the first shot here. You want to get the Animus back too, right?:… : Sir! I’m in my Bizac. Do I have permission to leave?: Ah. This is how you differ from the average Martian trash. My expectations of you are high. : Thank you, sir. Oh, and this pendant…: Yes, what about it?  Huh. I guess by ‘departing’ she really means ‘join in and wreck Phil’s poo poo too’. : A-aren’t you…: That voice…Aren’t you the young boy from earlier? I see…you’re the frame runner of the Animus.: Why are you doing this? Aren’t you a Martian yourself?!  :…weaklings! I am Nadia Candido, Special Task Force Acemos! If you do not return that machine then I will take it from you by force! A bunch of reinforcements appear to make Phil’s day even worse. : Now, shall we take care of the unfinished business from our last meeting? Ugh. Okay, the Vjaya is our only unit that hasn’t moved yet. At the very least we can damage one of Bolozof’s pals before the slaughter begins.   Here goes nothing…  Welp.   That was tremendously close. Sometimes even the ‘move the reticule round and round in circles’ method doesn’t work when the enemy is firing off so many huge crosshairs.    Phil dodges two other enemies before Bolozof finally decides to put him down.   Aaaand there’s my first friendly unit KO of the campaign. This isn’t like Fire Emblem where defeated units are dead forever, but it is irritating not to have a healbot for the rest of the mission. The Blade’s destruction is the only interesting thing to happen on the enemy’s turn. The rest is spent ineffectually trying to land hits on the Dreizehn or Vjaya.  This is going to get messy very quickly.  Half of my units aren’t in range so I have to move them up.    Razma grenades one of the enemies surrounding him.   Then Cage finishes him off.   Warren attacks another western enemy.  Finally, Ares takes out the enemy he wounded last turn. On the enemy turn nothing of note happens – the enemies all go after our extremely agile OF’s and miss their shots, apart from Bolozof who attacks Razma with his beam gun and misses. Nadia, though…   Nadia gets a hit on Semyl. Because Phil is dead this would normally be quite bad, but since I slapped a repair kit on her a while back she should be fine.  Before that, it’s time to bust some heads.      That takes care of the middle and western enemies. Now Semyl can heal up.  Now there’s just one generic enemy left, and he’s stuck between Ares and Mebius. Guess how this works out for him.    The answer - as poorly as one might expect.  Tired of messing around, Bolozof decides to attack Razma with his laser saber.   Ugh.   At least Nadia isn’t as dangerous.  This mission has dragged on for a ridiculous amount of time, but this should be the final turn.  Nadia’s first on the kill list.     : I’ve lost?! And made a fool of myself in front of Lieutenant Bolozof?! : Nadia, you’re tired. Retreat now. You understand?: I’m sorry…I’m leaving now.Nadia retreats, and we’re left with Bolozof. Once again Bolozof has a thing where he retreats at low health, so yet again we’re going to have to knock him down with a powerful attack.  First we have to weaken him.  After that we simply need an attack powerful enough to take him down in one shot. Luckily, we have just such an attack ready now.  The Durandal II’s burst attack, Avelcaine.   : Hah! What’s wrong? I’m still alive.: What’s wrong with this guy?!: Cage! Any further engagement with them is pointless. Retreat! Close your eyes!: Uh? Yes sir!:…? What are they doing? Deckson sets off the world’s biggest flashbang and BIS retreats.  : Heh heh heh…Haaahahahahah!!! They think that…think that they’ve spared me? Ha ha ha ha…  Music: Every Day  :...one who fired and posed as a demonstrator?: Yes, I'm sure of it. UNSF Special Task Force Acemos... I've heard of them. They're an elitist group of Earth supremacists... This could be trouble.: The lieutenant guy that we fought before... He seems dangerous.:...You mean Bolozof Velasgo. He probably joined the armed forces so he could be violent legally. He's the most dangerous man on Earth. I had no idea he'd joined Acemos... …careless actions today...He must be quite confident in his information manipulation.: It may be time for us to take action before they act against us.: But how? Do you have any ideas as to what we can do?: Well, I've been speaking with Ms. O'Connell about this...: Boss. I may be on to something. Let me pursue it.: Of course, look into it. Razma leaves. : Today was tough, wasn't it, Myona?: Yes... How can those Earthlings do such terrible things to the Martians?:...I don't understand it either.: Humankind succeeded in colonizing the vast territory of space... But like the vacancy they've claimed as territory, their hearts have become empty too.: But Ares... That's just so... :…Jupiter are called 'Enders' and are looked down upon....You'll understand eventually.: Ares...: Well, I'm really tired today...I'm going back to my room. See you later, Cage.Ares leaves. :...The fact of the matter...Hmm...: (.......) : Cage, we should get back too.: Yeah... You're right.: Er.....Cage and Myona walk out of the room. : (Miss Myona...) The scene ends and we get to see the spoils for our longest mission yet. We got a great haul of money and 5,000 bonus cash for saving every civilian. The server also contained new attacks for the Durandal II and Testament, which we’ll be trying out pretty soon.  And that’s this mission finished. If any future missions turn out to be longer than this I might have to consider splitting them in half. Scintilla fucked around with this message at 21:18 on Jul 3, 2013 |
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 11:56
|
|
|
You...were supposed to use...an OF...on the glowing blue things? GODDAMNIT! I totally missed that message! I guess I kept using LEVs on them and it didn't do anything so I ended up ignoring them! I could have gotten new attacks?! Man I was a MORON when I was a kid. Warren is awesome. He's just so level-headed about both political and anime problems.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 18:37
|
|
|
Scintilla posted:That was tremendously close. Sometimes even the ‘move the reticule round and round in circles’ method doesn’t work when the enemy is firing off so many huge crosshairs. When I played, I seemed to do better when moving the reticule in a figure-8 pattern instead of a circle. Mostly, it seems to be important to just not get stuck in the corners, the sharp turns slow you down too much and you will get hit.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 18:52
|
|
|
Scintilla posted:Chapter Six: One Wing’s Promise Kinda late, since it was an update ago, but you've got what I'm pretty sure is a mixed up portrait here. Also as much as I hate escort missions, them forcing you to prioritize the grunts camping the bridge is solid design.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 19:41
|
|
|
^Nice catch, I'll fix that in a second. Having so many different portrait icons means mix-ups like that are bound to happen. When playing this mission for the first time it's very tempting to go after the surrounding LEV's and ignore the southern ones since they don't look like much of a threat at first. If you don't go for them immediately you're guaranteed to lose two or three civilians since the AI is dumb and will happily walk into their line of fire.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 20:06
|
|
|
I find it interesting that the running gag with the horrible energy drinks in Super Robot Wars was also a blue-haired girl. The difference is that Myona is a non-combatant and Kusuha Mizuha goes around rending and slaying with her Ancient Chinese Dragon-Tiger Super Robot. Also Kusuha's Health Drinks set a character's Morale (Spirit here) to maximum.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 21:32
|
|
|
Haha, I forgot that the next mission is the stealth mission. Lovely.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 22:13
|
|
|
That mission is so easy, come on!  I always just moved my whole team to barely outside each sentry's weapon range (which is their visual range if I remember right) and then dog piled them. If you kill a sentry in the turn it activates you don't fail the mission. I always wiped the area clear of sentries for delicious XP before moving on.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 23:05
|
|
|
Yup, if you murder sentinels right on, they don't sound the alarm and you get to get their sweet sweet xpZack Ater posted:When I played, I seemed to do better when moving the reticule in a figure-8 pattern instead of a circle. Mostly, it seems to be important to just not get stuck in the corners, the sharp turns slow you down too much and you will get hit. That was my technique as well. Not to mention, sliding the Dodge vs Defence meter all the way toward Dodge. But yeah, an horizontal 8 pattern basically allows you to to dodge anything.
|
|
#
?
Apr 24, 2013 23:27
|
|
|
Do you need to pay for the KOed unit as in SRW?
|
|
#
?
Apr 25, 2013 03:40
|
|
|
mkwong98 posted:Do you need to pay for the KOed unit as in SRW? Nope. It'll be all repaired before the next mission.
|
|
#
?
Apr 25, 2013 07:07
|
|
|
Scintilla posted:Nope. It'll be all repaired before the next mission. Not even a cash penalty at the end? Wow, Born in Space must leave their repair negotiations to Roger Smith.
|
|
#
?
Apr 25, 2013 23:38
|
|
|
Oh drat. Getting a whole raft of new units up top must be pretty harrowing if you let your slower ones lag behind while the others ran interference for the evacuation.
|
|
#
?
Apr 28, 2013 02:25
|
|
|
Just so you guys know, I have a Latin exam on May 21st. It's a pretty important part of my Master's degree and I really need to revise for it, so the chances of me updating the thread before then are pretty slim. With that said, I'll see you guys in three weeks time.
|
|
#
?
Apr 30, 2013 10:59
|
|
|
Best of luck, Scintilla! Playing video games for the internet's entertainment can wait.
|
|
#
?
Apr 30, 2013 14:59
|
|
|
Figures I'd get around to reading this thread while it's on a 3-week hiatus.  Good luck with the Latin exam! Docendo cogito, or something like that.  I played this game, but not for very long. I believe I only got about as far as the intro to that last mission, but didn't even finish that. It has to be said, stuff like Ares and that mysterious figure seem almost comically obvious. I do also remember being irrationally suspicious of Phil, though. Still am, actually...
|
|
#
?
May 6, 2013 17:11
|
|
|
Hey guys, it's been a while. I've just got back from my Latin exam, so I can go back to working on this thing. Expect the next update soon-ish.
|
|
#
?
May 21, 2013 18:45
|
|
|
Great to hear - hope it went well!
|
|
#
?
May 21, 2013 19:25
|
|
|
Chapter Eight: Darkness Dyed by Darkness Music: Intermission  Welcome back. We have a ton of cash from the previous mission, so let’s get some upgrading done.  Most of the money goes into upgrading HP and Armour. Everyone now has two chevron’s worth of upgrades for each.  The Justeen’s attacks get a bit of a boost.  The Edge gains some more killing power. I spend the last 2,000 on the Dreizehn’s Calamity Kiss and the Caliburnus’s Star Carnival. From this point on money will start to become more common so we can afford to spread the upgrades around a bit. With that out of the way, let’s proceed with the story. Music: Strategy Explanation   : You back already?!? Jeez, that was quick.: Never mind that, look at this photograph. It's pretty low-resolution, but... :..Where did you get this? There seems to be something there...is this what you were talking about earlier?: Well, how about this picture? : This is...Bolozof's new machine!: Wasn't it called...Bizac?: And look at this one. : The frame in production...That is not an LEV! Can it be....An OF?! : That Bizac-frame, it did look different from an LEV. If it's been built with OF technology - that is, if it includes Metatron - that explains everything...This is actually a nice piece of foreshadowing for Zone of the Enders II. : Meta...tron. That's the precious material that they use in the catapults at the spaceports, right?: I figure the Martian government is probably doing all it can to keep it all a secret, but they wouldn't have them together with the LEVs. I think that they would have to have a special place where they dealt with all the OF-related matters.: That's true. If they're hiding their OF research, it would make sense that they would have their own private facility. :…there too?: And...perhaps there was some sort of unexpected accident during testing, and they lost control... And it hit Bonaparte...: That would mean that Zephyrs and his men were behind that accident...: It's possible.  : I regret to inform you that that's an industry secret.: Right, an industry secret...Like slappin' a tracer on a girl, stalkin' her, and plannin' on inviting her out to dinner?: Yeah, yeah...You know how women are, you convince them that it's destiny and...: How...how did you know about that?! : I knew it! : *Sigh* You know, you are so transparent. Myona, what do you think of guys who do things like this?:...: (Uh-oh... Don't look at me like that!!):...I think it sucks. : (Ouch!) No! It's not like that! Er...: OK. Enough of that. So, is that how you came across the information?: Yeah. She was suspiciously alert for a civilian. She told us to take a child to a safe place...as if she knew what was going to happen. That’s because you’re an anime protagonist, Cage. : Oh... I understand now.... I'm sorry, Razma...: Heh, heh... It's no big deal.: But.... She said that as she was leaving. You didn't have time to put the tracer on her after she said that...: Um, Razma... : That's so typical of you, Razma... But in this case, you were able to obtain information because you did that, so we can't complain...So what are we going to do? Should we wait until they make a move?: You sound as though you want to move on it immediately.: Well, are you against that?: That depends on our strategy. This facility belongs to the Ryan Corporation. I'm sure their security system exceeds that of most military facilities... And I'm sure their LEVs do also.: Ryan Corporation? What's that?: It comes next to NUT, Nereidum Universal Technology, a manufacturer. Of course, even though they're second in the industry, they're nowhere near as big as NUT - NUT has the power to build its own colony with no help from anyone.: Wow. :…their competition. It would make sense if they had helped with the construction of the Bizac too.: I think we should sneak in.: Why?: Well... the secret production of military weapons has been proven by the information supplied by Razma. All we need to prove now is the existence of Earthlings within the facility, and there will be enough to indict Zephyrs for his involvement. If all goes well, we may also be able to obtain data from the local server, and that is the most definitive evidence that we can lay our hands on.:...I agree completely with your plan. But what's the hurry? :...: It's true, this may be a good opportunity to take action. Warren, if we don't move now, we may end up having to wait until they make their next move, in which case we'll allow something to happen.:...You're right. I understand. We must build our strategy very carefully.There is the sound of a door opening in the background. : *Sigh* So now you're going to go after Zephyrs. Why didn't I know about this?: Ms. O'Connell...I was about to discuss this with you. I had no intention of keeping this a secret from you... : Well...: *Giggle* I'm only joking. But it wouldn't hurt you to worry about me sometimes too, you know? I work hard too.: Yes...Thank you.:...I have prepared a blueprint of the area with possible invasion routes, for your review.: No way! When?!? We just started talking about it right now!Twede is the best secretary. :...I will take care of the security problem. Please, just look out for the Security LEVs. :...Good luck. I will pray for your safety.: I'm sorry... Please don't take it personally. : You got no presence, is why.Semyl Shambrow? More like Semyl Smugbrow. Razma gives her a thump.  : OW! Boy, I'm gonna make you cry! : *Gasp* That's it!: Hah! Show me what you got!!: Well, shall we get going?: Yes... This should read ‘Scene 08: Darkness Dyed by Darkness’. Player Phase Music: Galactica Enemy Phase Music: Wetworks (Why is this amazing tune wasted here?)  Mission Map:  Our units spawn in, along with a lot of enemies who are spread out all over the map.    The camera draws out attention to these green glowing panels, signifying that they are Important Things we should be aware of.  :…need to worry about cameras or sensors - but even he can't control human eyes. Beware of the Security LEVs while you go about your business.: Well, if Twede is going to hack into the system so that Security and the facility can't communicate, why don't we just take them all down at once?: And make a big commotion so Security does show up?:...Not a good move. It's best if nobody finds out about this. Security trusts its sensors, so I don't think there will be too many Security LEVs on site. We should think of it as a clandestine operation. : Get within three squares of an enemy LEV and it's war on the spot. Be careful. If a Security LEV finds you, you may be able to get out of it if you beat it immediately....: Three squares?: Don't worry about it. Anyway, we'll have to find an entrance first. Then Phil and Ares will go in on the Blade. Is that okay with everyone?: That's fine. There are 5 routes. You need to figure out which one will lead to the inside of the facility. : Correct. Don't get caught, now!: Yes sir!:...Why is it Phil and Ares?:...In this group, those two are best with that kind of stuff.: What kind of stuff? : It's almost time.: Ares, Phil - be careful!: Yeah.: Yes... I-I will! You can leave it to me!: OK, is everybody ready? I will stay here and give you instructions... Let me know once you are inside.The Edge and the Blade vanish from the field.  : Is something the matter?: Are the sensors functioning normally? Something feels off...Is it just me?: All functions are normal. Perhaps you are tired. May I suggest that you take a rest?: Why? Are you bothered by my being here?: No. Far from it, I'm honoured! If it were up to me, I would be with you like this for all eternity! : Thank you. Normally, I would take that as a cue to flirt, but I shall refrain from such action for now. So that you might rest, I will continue with this Security post, although I will be very lonely.: Heh... OK, fine. I'm going to take a break, you take care of everything while I'm away.Nadia leaves. : Phew... That was close. Now, where were we? :…has been cut off, and the arrangements are complete. (Everything's done on time. I've done my part, now please do yours and do it well...)Not content with his day job as a secretary, Twede is also a Ninja on the side.  : Not an issue. I'm very reliable when need be... Heh heh. : Unconvincing, at best.:...It's time. Let's go. The mission proper begins now. As you’ve undoubtedly all worked out already, this is a stealth mission. There are eight enemy units scattered around the map, and if you get within three spaces of them they’ll detect you and sound the alarm on their next turn. Thankfully it’s not as annoying as you might expect – it’s not an instant game over, the enemy LEV’s don’t move at all and even if you are detected you can still continue as long as you destroy the offending LEV before its next turn comes up. With that said we’re ignoring Warren’s advice to sneak by and instead going with Razma’s genocide option.  Considering there are five potential entrances to the base, of which only one is the correct one, destroying the enemy LEV’s is probably easier than sneaking by them anyway. In terms of enemies we have various Missile, Beam Gun and Machinegun alpha LEV’s to contend with. None have HP above 2,800, so we shouldn’t have any issues as long as we pick them off one by one.  First of all, everyone shuffles forwards towards the two closest enemies.  Everyone moves up so they’re just outside the enemy’s visual range…  Razma initiates combat by sniping the left-hand LEV.  Of course, shooting him elicits a response from the pilot.  :…cut off. They’ll pay for this…: Get him!Will do, sir. This message appears every time you shoot at an unaware enemy.    Cage can easily finish him now.    That’s one of eight enemies down.  : Although I cannot say it was the best turn of events…: Come on, everything’s okay. As long as the plan goes well, everything’s good.: Every single action in this plan affects the final result. Not taking everything seriously will result in failure. : Computers do not get tired.:…Pharsti really does get all the best lines. Even so, it’s not going to stop us killing everyone and getting their sweet, sweet LEV monies.  Semyl strikes the first blow against the second LEV by showering it with missiles.   Now Mebius can put him out of commission.    He explodes after a totally unnecessary critical hit. From here on out I split my forces into two teams.  Razma, Yukito and Cage will clear the northwestern part of the map, as well as the dude hanging around in the middle.  Meanwhile Semyl, Mebius and Warren will deal with the northeastern enemies. I have all the time in the world to get everyone into position, so Semyl’s lack of mobility isn’t an issue.  With one kill under his belt Cage has enough Spirit to use his new attack, Nail Laser.  It’s not quite Shining Finger Sword, but it’ll do.    One more down.    Now for Mebius…    And then there were four. This mission is way easier than I remember it being, probably because the last time I played it I was a dumb kid with no idea what he was doing.  None of the LEV’s here are a threat. It would have been infinitely more challenging if these guys had a patrol route and moved around the map.      To be fair though even if this is a stealth sequence it’s much better than enforced stealth sequences in other games. I’m looking at you, Rogue Squadron II!     If nothing else, this section lets me show off some more Burst Attacks. Coming up is Moon Ballista, Mebius’s ranged burst.    It does some nice damage but that energy cost is pretty steep. Anyway, two enemies left.       Just one more left. I’ll just cut to him exploding.  Now all of the enemies are dealt with we can find the correct entrance at our leisure.  It turns out to be the northeastern-most one.  : Ares! I think it’s over there!: OK. Let’s proceed carefully so they don’t see us.That’s not going to be a problem.   : Yes! : Okay…we’re going in! : Yes sir!Everyone retreats, and the mission ends. Music: Every Day  : Yes...I hope the rest goes as smoothly.: Since there's time until our next move, I'd like to take a short nap.: What?! What are you thinking...?!: ZZZZZZZZ...:...He really fell asleep.: I can't quite figure out if he's headed for greatness, or if he's just stupid. : Well, that's Razma. We should all take turns and get some rest too.: (Ares...Phil...Good luck!)  So that was a pretty short mission, the shortest so far in fact. This and the next mission are linked together, and it’s best to think of them as two halves of the same episode. Note how the ‘Garage’ option is missing from the Intermission menu – our units can’t be upgraded since they’re still in the field. Anyway, tune in next time for the exciting conclusion. Scintilla fucked around with this message at 21:20 on Jul 3, 2013 |
|
#
?
May 24, 2013 20:01
|
|
|
I'm just gonna go ahead and say that, in a game all about the defense of Mars, having a character named Ares is probably completely inconsequential. I see no reason to expect anything special from a person named for the old Greek god of war, later known as Mars by the Romans (you know, the planet this takes place on that is currently being subjugated). I dunno, maybe it was a little more subtle in the Japanese version?
|
|
#
?
May 25, 2013 01:40
|
|
|
Tuxedo Ted posted:I'm just gonna go ahead and say that, in a game all about the defense of Mars, having a character named Ares is probably completely inconsequential. I see no reason to expect anything special from a person named for the old Greek god of war, later known as Mars by the Romans (you know, the planet this takes place on that is currently being subjugated). Maybe the title is completely literal and this game's final act will all be about Ares punching people.
|
|
#
?
May 25, 2013 03:47
|
|
|
His name could've been Bobby and it still would've been as obvious as bricks that he was up to something by the second mission.
|
|
#
?
May 25, 2013 04:29
|
|
|
alcharagia posted:Maybe the title is completely literal and this game's final act will all be about Ares punching people. I can get behind this.
|
|
#
?
May 25, 2013 06:01
|
|
|
Tuxedo Ted posted:I'm just gonna go ahead and say that, in a game all about the defense of Mars, having a character named Ares is probably completely inconsequential. I see no reason to expect anything special from a person named for the old Greek god of war, later known as Mars by the Romans (you know, the planet this takes place on that is currently being subjugated). He has the same name in the Japanese version. Speaking of names, Phil's full name is a real mouthful. Turns out 'Phil' is short for Philbright Westriverside Warehouserock XXVI. I'm not even joking, it's stated in his character file.
|
|
#
?
May 26, 2013 08:33
|
|
|
Are you for real? That sounds like his address was thrown into his name too.
|
|
#
?
May 26, 2013 10:25
|
|
|
I am indeed for real. According to his character file his father intentionally named him that because of an old superstition that luck comes to people with long names.
|
|
#
?
May 26, 2013 10:52
|
|
|
Terminology File #3 Here's a new terminology update to help bump things onto the next page. -- Animus Psychology term. Refers to deeply repressed masculine traits in females. Zephyrs uses this term as a code name for his new invention. Anti-Terrestrial League BIS Official name "Born in Space." Resistance group founded by Deckson Geyse. Uses a complex network of underground tunnels as its secret headquarters. Supported by the Robin Foundation. County Semi-autonomous political division on Mars. There are 16 counties in total. Local Server Computer memory terminal. During the game, it is possible to obtain new weapons or abilities by accessing the local server. NUT Nereidum Universal Technology. Major conglomerate which began a space development program in the early 21st century. The largest manufacturer of LEVs, as well as the inventor of the Orbital Frame. Headquarters located in Nereidum County, Mars. Pandora Frettum A region in Hellespontos; the location of the Sphere which housed Semyl's orphanage. Peacekeeping Forces The army of the United Colonies of Mars, which is actually under the direct command of the UNSF. Most members are Martians, but the force is controlled by Earthlings. Ryan Corporation Ranking a distant second after NUT in the tech manufacturing industry. Special Task Force Acemos Unit of the UNSF under the direct leadership of Zephyrs. Composed chiefly of Earthlings who are especially anti-Ender. -- That's all for now. I'll see about posting the character files at some point, but naturally they all contain spoilers so it'll probably be after I finish the game for the first time.
|
|
#
?
May 27, 2013 14:36
|
|
|
|
| # ? May 27, 2024 20:31 |
|
|
Correct me if I'm wrong, but the game actually has a glossary similar to this, right? I can't recall if its dynamically updated or just a giant spoiler dump if looked at too early.
|
|
#
?
May 30, 2013 14:00
|
|