Robot Alchemic Drive

 PlayStation 2
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
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  1. GamePro
    90
    The anime-mech lover’s dream come true.
  2. GamingWorld X
    88
    RAD is a really tantalizing title. The game features one of the freshest and most interesting control schemes in the history of console robot-bashing, leading to one of the most unique mech experiences out there.
  3. GameSpy
    86
    It's fun, challenging, and it left this jaded reviewer as giddy as a schoolgirl -- in this case, a schoolgirl that happens to control a 120-foot tall robot.
  5. netjak
    85
    If you want a game with complex play, this is the one. Like I said before, the twists will keep any gamer coming back for more.
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  6. GameZone
    85
    It is refreshing to see a developer try new ideas.
  7. Into Liquid Sky
    83
    In spite of the simple story line, the awful voice-acting, and the unpolished graphic engine, I still urge Anime fans to check this game out.
  8. GamingTrend
    83
    The casual gamer will probably be put off by the subject matter, but if you’re willing to forgive the graphics and acting, you’ll find a fun game in there.
  9. GMR Magazine
    80
    It's hard to go wrong with giant robots blowing stuff up, but Enix's latest effort goes one step further with a novel control scheme. [Feb 2003, p.93]
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  10. G4 TV
    80
    If you can still hum the theme to "Gigantor" and the line "I'll form the head!" means anything to you, Robot Alchemic Drive was made for you.
  11. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    80
    The game's approach to controlling a giant, transforming robot is probably the freshest ever conceived. [Dec 2002, p.80]
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  12. GameCritics
    80
    RAD may not have a great story or impressive graphical opulence, but what it does have is an unbelievable amount of fun and originality where it counts: the gameplay.
  13. PSM Magazine
    80
    Giant robots have never felt so huge and real. [Holiday 2002, p.46]
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  14. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    80
    It's wonderfully well conceived, and there simply isn't any other game like it. [Dec 2002, p.168]
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  15. Game Informer
    78
    It's by no means a blockbuster, but rather a gimick-driven oddity that just happens to be fascinating and enjoyable. [Dec 2002, p.120]
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  16. GameSpot
    75
    While the game is sometimes hampered by its nostalgia, it successfully and entertainingly captures the feel of controlling a giant robot like no other game has in the past.
  17. IGN
    73
    It has more than a few flaws, but the central concept works as both a challenging gameplay concept and an exciting bit of cinematic presentation.
  18. Cheat Code Central
    70
    The control system feels weird at first but as you get into the game you can deal with it and even pretend to understand it.
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  19. GamerWeb Sony
    70
    Gets the most important part right, the robot’s controls and gameplay elements, but drops the ball on all of the little things (like presentation, story, and voice acting).
  20. eToychest
    70
    It offers a unique take on the giant robot game type, and pulls off this new spin while still offering an enjoyable gaming experience.
  21. PSX Nation
    70
    Once you've made the Meganite under your control turn an invading Volgara robot into junkyard fodder a couple of times the hook will be in.
  22. Play Magazine
    70
    If R.A.D. did have role-playing and story elements to support the action, as good as its PS predecessor, you'd be looking at the next big thing...Either way, it's just dandy. [Nov 2002, p.66]
    All this publication's reviews

Awards & Rankings

56
#56 Best PS2 Game of 2002

User Reviews

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User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 12
  3. Negative: 1 out of 12
  1. blakekl
    Mar 1, 2013
    9
    This game is awesome! Nobody has ever succeeded in making you feel the scale of a giant robot since this game. The maps are quite large withThis game is awesome! Nobody has ever succeeded in making you feel the scale of a giant robot since this game. The maps are quite large with plenty of big buildings just begging to be toppled. The robots 'special moves' are just fun to watch, and the controls present a challenging but immersive experience. Didn't play much multiplayer, but the single player experience alone is worth it and the idea of multiplayer is promising if you have a buddy interested in the game.… Full Review »
  2. mon-tee
    May 22, 2011
    10
    Can I say FUN! Jump in a giant Robo and go to town! Whats not to like! (i need to fill the 150char minimum, definitly get this game, why can'tCan I say FUN! Jump in a giant Robo and go to town! Whats not to like! (i need to fill the 150char minimum, definitly get this game, why can't I submit this review yet)… Full Review »
  3. LuciusMcGibbon
    Jan 13, 2020
    9
    This game made me literally yell out "this is so f-ing cool" at the top of my lungs.

    It might be slow and occasionally clunky, the game    This game made me literally yell out "this is so f-ing cool" at the top of my lungs.

    It might be slow and occasionally clunky, the game design might be incredibly 2002, and the voice acting might be too much for human ears to bear, but show me another game that captures the scale of giant robot battles like this one, even among the current generation... nothing.

    Some people complain about it, but to me the real magic is viewing the action from your character's POV instead of having a boring old "God cam." Part of the strategy is finding the best vantage points mid-battle, including standing on your mech's shoulder. This game is what would happen if you smashed together Rock 'em Sock 'em Robots and Cloverfield. Until someone comes along and remixes the concept with today's capabilities, this game is a bona fide all-timer.    … Full Review »
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