The Nintendo SNES is one of the most iconic consoles in gaming history, with a vast library of games that still hold up today. One game in particular stands out among the rest for its engaging gameplay and rich storyline: Super Robot Wars 3, also known as Dai-3-ji Super Robot Taisen in Japan. This article will delve into the world of Super Robot Wars 3, exploring its gameplay mechanics, plot, and availability.

Introduction

Super Robot Wars 3 was released in 1997 for the Nintendo SNES and is part of the popular Super Robot Wars series. The game combines elements of various anime and manga franchises, including mecha anime like Macross, Gundam, and Voltron, with strategic turn-based combat. The title has undergone several translations and releases over the years, but the core gameplay remains unchanged.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics in Super Robot Wars 3 are centered around turn-based strategy. Players control a team of robots from different anime franchises, each with its unique abilities and strengths. The objective is to defeat the enemy army by strategically positioning your robots and using their special attacks.

The game features a grid-based battle system, where players can move their robots in any direction (up, down, left, right, or diagonally) within the battlefield. Each robot has a set of attributes, such as attack power, defense, and speed, which affect its performance in combat.

Players must also manage their resources carefully, as each turn costs energy points (EP). If a robot runs out of EP, it becomes disabled until more energy is replenished. Additionally, players can use special abilities called "Mega" attacks to deal massive damage to the enemy army.

Plot

The story of Super Robot Wars 3 takes place in an alternate universe where various anime franchises are connected by a mysterious force known as the "Neo-Global War." The game follows three main story paths:

1. Gundam: The Gundam franchise, which includes popular series like Mobile Suit Gundam and Universal Century.
2. Voltron: The Voltron franchise, which is set in the future where humans form giant robot teams to fight against alien threats.
3. Macross: The Macross franchise, which combines elements of science fiction and anime to tell a story of human exploration and conflict.

As players progress through the game, they will encounter various characters from each franchise, including iconic figures like Amuro Ray (Gundam), Hunk (Voltron), and Minakami (Macross). The story unfolds as players defeat enemy forces and uncover the mysteries behind the Neo-Global War.

Availability

Super Robot Wars 3 was initially released in Japan for the SNES in 1997. Since then, various ports and releases have been made available worldwide:

1. Original Release: Released in Japan on August 8, 1997.
2. International Release: Released in North America and Europe in 2000 for the Sega Saturn console.
3. PS2 Port: Released in Japan in 2004 as part of the Super Robot Wars Alpha Collection.
4. iOS and Android Port: Released in Japan on August 29, 2013, with a simultaneous international release.
5. Nintendo Switch Port: Released worldwide on February 28, 2020.

Age Rating

The age rating for Super Robot Wars 3 varies depending on the region:

1. Japan: Rated 9+ (recommended for players aged 9 and above).
2. North America: Rated E10+ (suitable for players aged 10 and above) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).
3. Europe: Rated PEGI 7+ (suitable for players aged 7 and above) by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system.

Conclusion

Super Robot Wars 3 is an iconic game that has stood the test of time, captivating fans with its engaging gameplay and rich storyline. With its strategic turn-based combat and diverse cast of robots from various anime franchises, this game offers a unique gaming experience that is both challenging and enjoyable. If you're looking for a nostalgic trip or a new adventure to embark on, Super Robot Wars 3 is an excellent choice.

As the availability of games continues to expand through digital platforms and ports, it's essential to consider the age rating of games before purchasing them. In this case, Super Robot Wars 3 has been rated suitable for players aged 10 and above in North America and 7 and above in Europe, making it an excellent option for younger gamers who are looking for a fun and challenging experience.

In conclusion, Super Robot Wars 3 is a must-play game for any anime or gaming fan. With its engaging gameplay mechanics, rich storyline, and diverse cast of robots, this game offers a unique gaming experience that will keep you entertained for hours on end.