The Hot Review of Nintendo SNES Front Mission Series - Gun Hazard (Japan) [EN by Aeon Genesis v1.01]

In the realm of tactical role-playing games (RPGs), few titles have managed to capture the hearts and minds of gamers quite like the Front Mission series. Developed by Yasumi Matsuno and his team at Square (now Square Enix), this iconic franchise has been a staple of Japanese gaming culture for over two decades. One of the most beloved entries in the series is Gun Hazard, a critically acclaimed game that was first released in Japan in 1995.

Released as part of the SNES library in Japan, Gun Hazard was developed by Intelligent Systems (now known as Intelligent Object), a renowned developer behind some of Nintendo's most beloved franchises. The game takes place on the fictional continent of Valteria, where rival factions are vying for control. Players take on the role of a commander, guiding their unit through tactical battles against enemy forces.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Gun Hazard and explore its rich gameplay mechanics, immersive storyline, and impressive graphics. We'll also examine the game's availability in English, including various releases and re-releases over the years.

Gameplay Mechanics

Gun Hazard is a classic tactical RPG that challenges players to make strategic decisions on the battlefield. Each unit has unique abilities, strengths, and weaknesses, which must be carefully utilized to outmaneuver enemy forces. The game's battle system, known as the "Active Battle System," allows for real-time movement and action between units.

One of the standout features of Gun Hazard is its emphasis on character development. As players progress through the story, they'll encounter a range of characters, each with their own backstory, motivations, and abilities. Building relationships with these characters can lead to valuable bonuses in battle, making the game's world feel more immersive and engaging.

Storyline

The storyline of Gun Hazard is set on the continent of Valteria, where rival factions are vying for control. Players take on the role of a commander, guiding their unit through battles against enemy forces. Along the way, they'll encounter a range of allies and enemies, each with their own agendas and motivations.

One of the most compelling aspects of Gun Hazard's storyline is its exploration of themes such as war, sacrifice, and the consequences of violence. The game's narrative is full of complex characters, moral dilemmas, and unexpected plot twists, making for a deeply engaging and thought-provoking experience.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The graphics in Gun Hazard are impressive for a 16-bit title, with detailed unit models, backgrounds, and animations that bring the world to life. The soundtrack, composed by Kenichi Tsuchiya, is equally memorable, featuring catchy themes and haunting melodies that perfectly capture the game's atmosphere.

Age Rating Availability

Gun Hazard was initially released in Japan on the SNES in 1995, where it received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, rich storyline, and impressive graphics. Over the years, the game has been re-released in various forms, including:

• English Release: In 2007, Gun Hazard was released in English as part of the Nintendo Virtual Console service in Japan. This release included the original Japanese soundtrack, but no English translation or subtitles.
• Fan Translation: In 2010, a fan translation patch for Gun Hazard was released by Aeon Genesis, a team of dedicated fans who worked tirelessly to create an accurate and complete translation of the game's story and dialogue.
• Official Release: In 2021, Gun Hazard was officially re-released in English as part of the Nintendo Switch Online service. This release included both the original Japanese soundtrack and a comprehensive English translation, making it easier for fans worldwide to experience this classic title.

Conclusion

Gun Hazard is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide with its engaging gameplay, immersive storyline, and impressive graphics. Its availability in English has been limited over the years, but thanks to dedicated fan communities and official releases, fans can now experience this iconic title in all its glory.

For those looking for a challenging and rewarding tactical RPG experience, Gun Hazard is an absolute must-play. With its rich gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and thought-provoking storyline, it's no wonder that this game has remained a beloved classic among gamers for decades.