As I mentioned in my review of 13 Sentinels – Aegis Rim, I’ve long been a fan of anime. One of my favorite series is Robo-Tech, and I had hoped to find a compelling Mecha game with Vanillaware’s Aegis Rim. Ultimately, I was disappointed. Therefore, when Hardcore Mecha was released, I approached it with considerable anticipation, hoping for a more satisfying experience.
Hardcore Mecha is fundamentally a platformer. This presents both advantages and disadvantages. The gameplay is generally fast-paced, featuring numerous upgrades and enemy encounters. However, the experience can become somewhat repetitive over time. Additionally, targeting smaller, rapidly moving enemies can be challenging due to the aiming mechanics.
Hardcore Mecha boasts a stylish aesthetic and performs well on the Nintendo Switch, both in docked and portable modes. The Japanese voice acting, coupled with the music and sound effects, contributes to a generally enjoyable gaming experience. The narrative is engaging, and the game offers a substantial number of levels to play through.
Each Mecha unit possesses unique abilities and skills, which adds a welcome element of variety to the gameplay. Furthermore, a diverse array of weapons can be acquired through discovery or purchase.
Hardcore Mecha features quick loading times. While the graphics are well-executed and stylish, they exhibit a degree of simplicity. The cutscenes are presented as static images with accompanying dialogue. The dialogue is extensive and delivered in a classic Japanese style, which can become somewhat protracted at times. Regrettably, Hardcore Mecha shares a similar, arguably outdated, portrayal of women as Aegis Rim. While the situation is somewhat improved, the question remains: why the need for such a revealing neckline? Given that the game was released for other consoles the previous year, this element feels particularly anachronistic.
In conclusion, Hardcore Mecha is a fast-paced and entertaining platformer with a distinct anime aesthetic. The controls are responsive and intuitive, allowing players to quickly engage in protecting the planet from various threats. Despite some shortcomings, I offer a qualified recommendation.
