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Planet Earth: Prime Real-Estate, Minor Human Infestation

Growing up, one of my favorite animated TV shows was Robotech, a space opera (very) loosely based on three unrelated Japanese animated series: Super Dimension Fortress Macross, Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross, and Genesis Climber Mospeada. To my knowledge, the Robotech TV series never aired in Europe.

I typically reject video games based on TV shows or movies, but I made an exception for Robotech. In particular, I bring this up in regards to Robotech: Invasion for Playstation 2 and original Xbox. I think this is a decent game with a bad reputation. Now understand, I say this is a "decent" game... not a "great" game. But looking at some of the press scores, you wouldn't even know it's even a decent game.

I think the problem lies that Robotech: Invasion's release was badly timed. The publication happened in 2004, just one month before Halo 2. Not much more needs to be said there. Also, this game came after Robotech: Battlecry which not only was "faithful" enough to satisfy a zealous fanbase, but (unlike most games based on a TV show) also met with a fair amount of praise. Unfortunately, Robotech: Invasion deviated too much (which really wasn't much) from the TV show, scaring away the fanbase... and then being a far more obscure brand living under the shadow of the alimghty Halo, well... that is certain death.

However, if we strip away the expectations of Halo and its Robotech brand... there is actually a decent game, here. Not great, but certainly decent.

The setting is a dystopia future in which a hostile alien race (called the "Invid") has already conquered Earth. Freedom fighters await the return of Admiral Rick Hunter and his expeditionary fleet to reclaim Earth for humanity. You play as "Locke", a man who wakes up with amnesia in the wastelands and quickly gets caught up with a small freedom fighter cell. As the game progresses, Locke experiences memory flashbacks hinting to his past. Those familiar with the TV series will figure it out quickly (think: Ariel/Marlene). Otherwise, it gets spelled out for you towards the end, and the conclusion isn't a pretty one for Locke... but the game will go on.

What attempts to set this game apart from other first-person shooters is the power-armor dymanic. This isn't the more typical power armor such as worn by Gordon Freeman or Master Chief. You'll notice from the second screenshot that the mecha-trooper on the left has wheels on his shoulders...? Why yes he does! That is the "cyclone" battle-armor, a transformable suit of powered armor that can be either a combat motorcycle or combat armor, depending on if you need speed or protection.

Switching between the bike and armor can be done on the fly, in most situations... this is where once again, the game is only decent but not great. Locke is forced to remain in armor mode when walking through "enclosed" areas like wide, spacious tunnels (gotta love that safety system), but must use the bike on tight and cluttered roads that are tantamount to an obstacle course. Still, there are areas where you can open 'er up and let 'er rip in short bursts. See ya!

First-person shooter combat is good. Shoot-it-before-it-shoots-you gameplay is all there. The game uses dual analog-stick controls that are popular with the mainstream. The auto-targetting is nice, but you still gotta fine tune those shots to hit an Invid's weakpoint (its eye). Locke can carry two weapons, one of which has to be the Gallant, an upgradeable energy pistol. The other weapon can be swapped out. It starts out as an auto-pistol, but later Locke can find assault rifles, rocket launchers, and such.

Melee combat is also present. Being pistol-whipped by cyclone armor is like being slammed with a battering-ram! One variety of cyclone armor even comes with a wrist-blade for getting close and personal with armored Invid ground troopers.

The one thing trying to evolve above "decent" is the musical score. The music is composed by Jesper Kyd, a composer I have respect for. The highlights of his other work includes The Hitman series, Assassin's Creed, and Unreal Tournament 3.

Most of the music is just various techno beats for ambience. Being a sci-fi action game, it's appropriate, but I particularly love the "Invid Invasion" theme that is played during intense combat. It's a combination of techno beats, classical instruments, and a male vocal choir. The idea may seem wierd, but it really is good stuff.

So yeah, Robotech: Invasion is a decent game. It's also five years old. You just may come across it on a preowned-games shelf for $5 or €5, and it's really not a bad ride for 5 gil. You'll notice on the box that it offers online play, but I wouldn't count on finding anyone to play with over Gamespy or Xbox-live. Realistically, it'll be a solo mission.

Arclayn MoonSword

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