Front Mission

 DS
Front Mission Image
Metascore
72

Mixed or average reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
7.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 16 Ratings

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  • Summary: Discover the origins of the Front Mission series in this explosive handheld saga that was never before localized for North America. Reborn exclusively on the Nintendo DS. Front Mission introduces new features, such as dual screen presentation and multiplayer modes, that update the classicDiscover the origins of the Front Mission series in this explosive handheld saga that was never before localized for North America. Reborn exclusively on the Nintendo DS. Front Mission introduces new features, such as dual screen presentation and multiplayer modes, that update the classic that gave birth to seven beloved sequels. Using Touch Screen functionality, players command a squad of customizable mechs known as wanzers and direct them through turn-based skirmishes across the battlefields of the 21st century. [Square Enix]… Expand
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. RPG Fan
    88
    This game brings both style and content to the table. It doesn't pretend to be anything greater than it is: it's a very straightforward Strategy RPG.
  2. NintendoWorldReport
    85
    For fans of the strategy genre, this is your definitive game on the DS; go and pick this game up without a second thought.
  3. IGN
    78
    If you’re a diehard tactical gamer, however, Front Mission will offer you more options, more depth, and more overall customization than any of its competitors on DS, with a level of detail, strategy, and maturity that isn’t often found on Nintendo’s handheld.
  4. Pocket Gamer UK
    70
    Front Mission may not pack a full house of tactical depth, but that doesn't prevent it from dealing an easy and enjoyable introduction to the genre.
  5. GamesRadar+
    70
    If you know you're getting into a heady, deliberate, and involved game then you'll be rewarded well by Front Mission.
  6. Gamestyle
    70
    Even after 12 years, Front Mission is a good game, and if you’re a fan of turn-based strategy games, it would be a great addition to your DS library.
  7. Game Revolution
    58
    If you loved Front Mission in the past, or are just a big fan of the tactical RPG genre, or can’t get enough of stomping badguys with your giant titanium feet, then this is the right game for you. Otherwise, you might want to give this one a pass, and leave your Wanzer alone.

See all 19 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. APickle
    Dec 12, 2022
    10
    Among the best Tactics JRPG's out there along with Fire Emblem Awakening, Shining Force 3 and Tactics Ogre Let us Cling Together.

    The story    Among the best Tactics JRPG's out there along with Fire Emblem Awakening, Shining Force 3 and Tactics Ogre Let us Cling Together.

    The story is a bit dark compared to other games in the JRPG genre, very comparable to an actual war. Without making any spoilers past the into cutscene, the purpose of the game is to find your fiance who went missing and while looking for her you build up an army and get deeper and deeper into enemy occupied territory.

    Gameplay, there is a lot of micromanaging. This is a game for experienced tactics gamers, but not quite as hard as FE Geneology of the Holy War or Thracia 776. Expect to spend up to an hour between levels to optimize your equipment.

    The actual combat is fantastic, you really need to be careful. Push too hard and your repair bill next level will be over the top. Too conservative and you become overwhelmed and lose anyway.

    This game is also much better than the other Front Mission games. I never understood why people liked Front Mission 3 so much when you only had 4 playable characters in that game.

    If you enjoy tactics JRPG's like Fire Emblem, Tactics Ogre, Final Fantasy then give this game a go. Front Mission DS is easily among the best Squaresoft games of the 90's.

    Honestly a 10/10, but for a niche genre.    … Expand
  2. MaksF.
    Oct 26, 2007
    9
    I have only a few minor beefs with things that could have been done a little differently in the control scheme and interface. Interesting I have only a few minor beefs with things that could have been done a little differently in the control scheme and interface. Interesting plot, good design, great game, reminds me of what originally got me into tactical games and the Front Mission series in general. Also, Mei's portrait is fiendishly cockeyed.… Expand
  4. AngrySir
    Mar 8, 2022
    9
    great pixel art + mechs + customization + tactics = a great game for its time
  5. alex
    Jan 16, 2009
    9
    Well done Sqare. FM boast a terrific and very mature storyline. Two different chapters makes you live the same conflict from two perspective,Well done Sqare. FM boast a terrific and very mature storyline. Two different chapters makes you live the same conflict from two perspective, very nice. The characters have some personalities and make you enter deep into the game. The art style and overall design is great. The gameplay although simple can be very deep with a crazy amount of customization options. Only point to improve, a more complex battle system might been welcome in the future and better or more rich music (the loop can drove you crazy after a while). I really hope Sqare bring other version to NOA, they have made a fans out of me!… Expand

Awards & Rankings

45
#45 Best DS Game of 2007
79
#79 Most Discussed DS Game of 2007
7
#7 Most Shared DS Game of 2007