PGC NEWS

For many, the allure of piloting powerful mechs in a futuristic battlefield is a lifelong dream. Games like Transformers, Mobile Suit Gundam, and Pacific Rim have fueled this fascination, creating a dedicated fanbase eager to experience the thrill of mechanized combat firsthand. Daemon X Machina, a Nintendo Switch exclusive from Marvelous, promises to deliver this experience, boasting high-octane action and extensive customization options. But does it live up to the hype?

Engaging Combat System

In Daemon X Machina, players assume the role of an Outer, a skilled pilot capable of controlling powerful mechs known as Arsenals. Following a catastrophic lunar event that empowers AI and throws the world into chaos, players must navigate a complex web of alliances and mercenary contracts to liberate Earth from the grip of rogue machines.

The game’s intuitive control scheme allows for seamless transitions between ground and aerial combat. Players can effortlessly maneuver their Arsenals, utilizing a combination of analog sticks and buttons for movement, camera control, jumping, boosting, targeting, and dodging. The diverse range of enemies, from unmanned tanks and drones to colossal mechs, keeps the gameplay dynamic and challenging. Each enemy type presents unique attack patterns and movement styles, demanding quick adaptation and strategic thinking.

alt: A screenshot from Daemon X Machina showing the player's Arsenal engaging in combat with enemy mechs in a ruined city

Extensive Arsenal Customization

One of Daemon X Machina’s standout features is its deep customization system. Players can acquire a vast arsenal of weapons and parts by defeating enemies or purchasing them from vendors. This allows for unparalleled flexibility in tailoring Arsenals to individual playstyles. With six weapon slots available – main weapons, shoulder weapons, and backup weapons – players can equip a diverse loadout, ranging from assault rifles and sniper rifles to laser cannons, shields, and even katanas.

alt: A screenshot from Daemon X Machina showcasing the customization menu where players can equip different weapons and parts to their Arsenal

The customization extends beyond the Arsenal itself. Players can also enhance their Outer’s abilities through upgrades, impacting both their individual stats and their Arsenal’s performance. These upgrades unlock new skills, such as energy shields and the ability to create decoys, further expanding tactical options. Furthermore, when an Arsenal is destroyed, the pilot can continue fighting on foot, utilizing a different set of weapons and abilities. This adds another layer of depth to the combat, requiring players to master both mech and on-foot combat styles.

Repetitive Gameplay and Lackluster Story

Despite its promising premise and engaging combat, Daemon X Machina suffers from a repetitive gameplay loop and a weak narrative. The game’s missions are fragmented into short, self-contained objectives, lacking meaningful cutscenes to connect them and build a compelling narrative. Most cutscenes consist of bland dialogue that fails to develop the characters or advance the plot. This leaves players feeling disconnected from the story and unsure of their motivations.

alt: A screenshot from Daemon X Machina showing the player's Arsenal facing a giant enemy mech, emphasizing the scale of the battles

The mission objectives themselves become predictable and monotonous. Players are often tasked with eliminating a certain number of enemies, surviving for a specific duration, protecting an objective, or retrieving items. While occasional boss battles offer a change of pace, the lack of narrative context and buildup diminishes their impact.

alt: A promotional image for Daemon X Machina featuring several Arsenals against a backdrop of a destroyed city.

The uninspired NPC design and generic dialogue further contribute to the game’s underwhelming narrative. The lack of distinct personalities and meaningful interactions makes the world feel static and lifeless.

Conclusion

Daemon X Machina excels in delivering a thrilling and customizable mech combat experience. However, its repetitive gameplay loop and underdeveloped story prevent it from reaching its full potential. The lack of narrative depth, combined with uninspired mission design and bland characters, ultimately holds the game back from being a true standout in the mech genre. Despite its flaws, the core gameplay remains enjoyable, offering a satisfying power fantasy for mech enthusiasts. If you can overlook the narrative shortcomings, Daemon X Machina provides hours of explosive action and customization options.