MechCommander 2

Top three ways to tell when you're in for a bad PC gaming experience:

1. There's a WizardWorks logo on the box.
2. More money was spent on raised lettering and flashy packaging than the disc itself.
3. Your purchase comes packed with a manual that makes Webster's Dictionary look like a coffee table book.

Still, if at least one of these above assumptions can be applied to Mech Commander 2, in practice it proves highly misleading. For a title based on what is arguably the grandest sci-fi battle system ever--and an overwhelmingly detailed original product--you won't find a more promising contender out there. Though several minor flaws wreak havoc on this excellent real-time romp's circuitry, it nonetheless trudges onward and upward, crushing all pretenders in its path.

As a combat simulator spliced with RPG elements, the game borrows design aspects from several genres without delving too deeply into any specific area. Newly recruited mercenaries begin their campaign managing green recruits and low-level mechs, eventually enhancing soldiers' skills and purchasing or salvaging new equipment throughout play. Given that resource management is minimal, with players only stopping to capture enemy storehouses for points that can be used to produce repairs, drop sensors, call in air strikes or things of the like, individuals mean more here than in garden variety computerized conflict. Maintaining a healthy stable of recruits is mandatory, because they're the heart and soul of your war effort. This constraint obviously makes for an intriguing solo experience, but one won't realize just how much so until several missions in.

Prior to every level, you'll outfit mechs with pilots and weaponry. Via briefing material delivered through splendidly acted Vidcom video updates, characters relay operation background information. Based on initial reports, wise commanders will issue short, medium or long range weapons accordingly, choosing to divide a set weight allotment between light and heavy mechs that will be captained by player-controlled drones with differing skill sets. Survive scenarios and you acquire cash for future spending in these regards, and veteran heroes can gain bonus proficiencies (long range specialist, sensor expert, etc.) as well. Judged against similar offerings, Mech Commander 2 boasts a much more fluid and organic approach to mission setup, which you'll promptly fall head over heels for.

Actual 3D battles aren't super snazzy, but are definitely a cut above the norm. Line of sight, elevation, sensor capabilities, jump jet maneuvers and additional variables factor into melee. The interface is standard RTS fare, with mouse movement and click combos flipping camera angles or issuing orders as needed. There's no need to worry your pretty little head over simple commands; save pent up angst for moments when mechs start thinking on their own. Although strong AI makes its presence known quite early into play, your giant metal walkers sometimes have problems keeping a safe distance from targets. Not having to constantly baby-sit troops is a nice feature, but often units which should be attacking from a long-range standpoint close in for a quicker kill. Sometimes that proves disastrous.

Regardless, missions are tactically sound. While objectives must be accomplished in a set order, you can adopt any approach (within reason) for said undertaking. Deciding whether to take the high ground and pick off enemies as they come, circumvent danger entirely, or soften up bases with long-range artillery fire before charging in isn't just important, it's entertaining too. Very few competitors place much importance on annexing enemy buildings either. One can't possibly know how satisfying it is to neutralize an opposing stronghold by avoiding blasting through the main gate and instead taking control of turrets, knocking out station power, or capturing mechanical controls with a surprise flank attack until they've tried.

Despite all you'll learn though, only direct confrontations are available for practice. Oddly, Mech Commander 2 lacks a needed skirmish mode. Mixing and matching chassis, parts and pilots has its charms during scripted battles, which can be challenging, but the chance to test your skills in brief, random matches would've added infinitely more replay value. As is, multiplayer doesn't cut the mustard. Only those fond of The Zone or buggy LAN connections will truly find it a positive addition. Sadly, a game that deserved the royal treatment was shown the servant's entrance in this regard. Sigh... At least you can sift through an extensive encyclopedia and dream of magical moments that could've, nay should've, been produced.

Downsides notwithstanding, old fashioned, graphical oomph will fend off permanent depression. Though a bit player in an overpopulated, over-hyped, and overdone niche, this product stands out for sumptuous visuals and skillfully produced voice-acting. Professional is the operative word. From interlocking fold out menu screens to dazzling, colored lighting effects and jaw-dropping explosions, it's a wild ride. Units are so detailed you can even watch as human warriors jettison their metal giants, blasting off seconds before destruction in an escape pod to live another day and change undoubtedly soiled drawers. Oh yes, your 3D accelerator will be getting a fine workout, as may be noticed during brief tussles with slowdown.

Layers of depth and beauty characterize an honestly memorable and fun virtual war zone. While some details such as heat management and precise targeting have been glossed over a mite heavily for BattleTech fans' tastes, overall Mech Commander 2 bestows a new lease on life upon the esteemed franchise. Associated problems seem very minor in retrospect, as you'll surely remember glorious ground shaking tussles over petty gripes years later. Microsoft's new bouncing baby 'bot hasn't reached its zenith yet, but given time the toddler could grow up to be a ten ton bruiser, just like its ass stompin', tabletop trouncin' pa.

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