1. Evaluation of Armored Core 3 Eric Nelson CIS 487 Oct 3, 2005

2. General Information Published by agetec Developed by FROM SOFTWARE Mecca Combat Simulator Released Sept 2002 Current price $29.99

3. Hardware Requirements PS2 PS2 memory card with at least 95 KB Dualshock controller USB mouse (optional)

4. Quick Overview You are a mercenary pilot of a mech, aka armored core. You earn credits by competing in the arena and completing missions. With this cash you can buy better parts and upgrades.

5. Storyline You operate on earth in an underground complex called layered. In charge is a super-AI: ‘The Controller’. Recently, more and more evidence suggests that it is malfunctioning. In time, you are approached by Union, a group out to fix things one way or another.

6. Getting Started No installation required A dualshock controller is the principle interface, a USB mouse is also supported in the emblem editor. You are given a basic core, it’s up to you to pilot and upgrade it through missions and arena battles.

8. Scoring Payment from missions Payment from the arena Mission Performance Training Performance Mission Success Rate

9. Artwork The opening sequence is good eye candy Menus and displays are sharp Combat graphics are average

10. Sound & Music Music tracks are a type of futuristic electronic Sound effects are good, but more variety would have helped Voice acting is well done

11. Manual Covers basic movement and controls Gives descriptions for parts and terms Easier to reference than accessing the in game knowledge system.

13. Features & Bugs 4 player support with connected PS2s The player can position themselves in a way so that the camera goes out of bounds

14. Game Pros Being able to mix and match several hundred parts to make a core that fits your play style The ability to drop weapons during a battle to increase mobility Playing with or against a friend in the arena

16. Game Cons There is no optional tutorial for new players The difficulty of creating custom emblems Playing against the godly arena opponents can become frustrating

18. Comparison Gundam, Mech Assult, Gungriffon Blaze Armored Core 3 is better than these games: More customization options Fast paced game play The Arena

19. Audience ‘Lab Rats’ Mecca lovers Shooter fans

20. Design Mistake The 2 player 'Extra' arena option should have had an option to allowed 2 human players

21. Summary Good: Customization, re-playability, arena Bad: Initial learning curve, emblem editor use Improve: Emblem editor, extra arena, tutorial Overall: Definitely worth purchasing

22. End Transmission - Questions are Welcome -