PS2: J-Phoenix Burst Tactics [JPN]

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   In the first J-Phoenix game, two nations went to war. The sequel carries this theme along for another ride while improving play mechanics and throwing new wrinkles into the machinery. Each battle starts off with a primer on objectives as well as helpful hints on succeeding. New weaponry upgrades for robots include chest cannons, shoulder mounts and sidearms. Similar to Armored Core, players are able to design their mechs and outfit them with over 300 different parts and enhancements. Mechs may also be upgraded with special armor to enhance field performance and withstand attacks. Communication flashes carry over from the original game with talk screens which pop up to relay intel. Weather conditions affect battle outcomes as well as performance when you're on the battleground. In addition to lone play, you may bring along tactical support in the form of back-up mechs who supply additional firepower or pose as cannon fodder. When you and a comrade join together for an offensive, you are able to unleash a "burst attack" which increases the level of damage suffered by a targeted foe. 
 
PS2: Ground Breaker ~ Legend of Cloudia [JPN]

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   Sunrise Interactive eschews their tried and true mech names (Gaogaigar, Gundam, Getter Robo, Dunbine) and designs a new breed of robots for their latest home video game. Ground Troopers (GTs) are new mobile suits designed by famous names as Shoji Kawamori (Macross, Escaflowne, Gunhed), Kunio Ogawara (Gundam, Voltes V, Gatchaman, Daitarn), and Junya Ishigaki (Xenogears, Xenosaga, Gundam). Now you know why the mecha in G-Breaker look so...referential. On the planet Cloudia, two mech armies are waging war. You're on the side of the Cloud Force, fighting against the legions of Deon. As commander, you marshal forces on grid-overlaid battlefields and also insert yourself into action-packed strike missions against the enemy. Players may design their GT by mixing and mashing parts together ala Armored Core. A simulation mode in the game utilizes what Sunrise calls the MAPS system which allows for god-like control over your tactical units. You're able to direct units, recall them, move and then attack, or defend against potential ordnance. 
 

 

PS2: Galerians AshxRion [JPN]

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   Galerians are normal people who are "modified" by way of drugs and surgery. Once enhanced, Galerians are capable of using psychic force to sleuth unknowns and wield mind power as a weapon. In the original Galerians, the game began with Rion Steiner strapped to a table whilst workers administered some drug called Nalcon into his system. This triggered psychic powers in Rion, which he used to free himself and go on an adventure of discovery and revenge, leading up to the destruction of Dorothy, a sentient computer which initiated the Galerians project. 
   Galerians Ash steps backwards in time and delves into the history of Rion and how he came to be as well as a Galerians doppelganger named Ash. Gameplay mechanics have been improved over the original with faster animation, a smoother fighting sequence where you're able to lock-on to foes and a friendlier camera which doesn't hinder your view of the action as seen in the original. Multiple enemies may also be hit at once, thanks to the intuitive combat system. Looks like Enterbrain heard the complaints about the first game and are attempting to resolve them.

 
PS2: Generation of Chaos Next [JPN]

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   The latest game in a long running "series" from Idea Factory (Spectral Blade, Spectral Force(s), etc) graduates yet another chapter on the PS2. An age old feud starts off the story in Generation of Chaos Next and prince Eli Lu is in position to ascend to kinghood. However, he doesn't want the position and decides to run away, leaving his betrothed Princess Rozzi behind. Circumstance, introspection, and blood ties being what they are, he's pulled back into the fray by destiny and accepts his responsibility grudgingly. Gathering together a force of fighters, Eli elevates his game and prepares to launch an offensive against the enemies of the kingdom. In order to manage the loyalty (Loyalty Degree System) of his subjects and increase morale, etc, he assigns ten generals and gives them power to manage the affairs of the land. When time comes for battle, whole regiments of troops may be led into war against similarly large opposing forces. In addition to standard arms, you also battle with magical spells wielded by your underlings as long as your "Attack Counter" has enough potency to enact the attack. 

 
GBA: Advance GT2 [JPN]

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   MTO Co have a good thing on their hands and it's only natural to pound out a sequel to one of the better handheld racing games in recent history. Gathering together cars from Mazda, Mitsubishi, Mitsuoka, Nissan, Toyota, etc once again, players drive on-road and off-road with their vehicles of choice. Challenging but not frustrating, the game engine proves to be accommodating for beginners and seasoned "drivers" alike.  

View a primer on the game
 

 

GBA: Rockman Zero [JPN]

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   Far off in the future, an evil Rockman X rules the world with an iron fist. A rebel force impacts annoyance but little else until the day that a young member named Shelly discovers a broken down Zero. She brings Zero back from flat-line and mounts the first serious attack against the megalomaniac. As Zero, you engage the minions of Rockman X through various levels in a bid to topple his domination.  

View the introduction to the game
 
GBA: Winning Eleven [JPN]

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   We imagine the Japanese soccer fellow to be screaming "BUY THIS GAME!" and he wouldn't be too far off. Winning Eleven on the GBA efforts an impressive soccer game with excellent control and satisfactory overall gameplay. The obvious pitfalls of the small screen blunt our praise but even then, the details are discernible as the onscreen kickers motor down the field and team cooperative interplay is simple to achieve.

View a primer on the game
 
GC: Rune [JPN]

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   Adventure games utilizing cards to effect attacks, defense, and even healing are not new. Texthoth Ludo, Arcana Strikes, and Magic the Gathering come to mind as forerunners. From Software takes this tack and puts forward a story about a princess named Katia who endeavors to save her kingdom from an invading force. As the game begins, the princess can't do much by herself but her power stems from her cards. By assembling a mighty deck, Katia is able to her attack her foes, heal herself, and summon powerful creatures to help her. The foundation of the Rune card system are runes, which supply the energy and impetus for the magic. Powerful attacks and summons therefore require a healthy cache of runes which may be accumulated and replenished by defeating monsters. During Katia's travels, new cards may be found in treasure chests to enhance her repertoire. Cinematically, Rune lavishes impressive animations on the player. When summoning a monster, Katia throws the card up in the air which then changes into a portal. From this door, a monster drops onto the battlefield and unleashes it's fearsome attack. 

 
NCS Weekly Recap

Monday PS1 Arc the Lad Collection  NEWS Week's import outlook 
Wednesday PS1 CvS 2K Pro, Klonoa Volleyball  PS2 Surveillance, Winning Eleven 6, Zettai Zetsumei Toshi 
Thursday GBA Advance GT2, Rockman Zero, Winning Eleven  PS2 Galerians AshxRion, Generation of Chaos Next, Ground Breaker, J-Phoenix Burst Tactics
Friday NEWS Upcoming GBA and PS2 schedules, Grand Runner