I like robots, particularly oversized ones equipped with a variety of weapons. I recently had the opportunity to visit the California office of Amazing Seasun Games to try their newest title, Mecha Break. All I knew beforehand was that it featured giant robots, and I was pleasantly surprised to find myself captivated by the experience.
While I wasn’t familiar with Amazing Seasun Games’ previous titles, the trailers for Mecha Break had impressed me. As I prepared to test the free-to-play mech-based hero shooter, I felt some apprehension given the oversaturated live-service market. However, it seems Mecha Break is managing to carve out its own niche.
The game introduces players to a roster of 13 distinct mechs, known as Strikers, each equipped with unique weapons and abilities. Players can analyze a graph showcasing each Striker’s strengths and weaknesses, presenting options for various playstyles. Some Strikers are tailored for solo players, while others excel in support roles, ensuring a balanced roster overall.
Before diving into gameplay, I must commend the meticulous character creator. Before stepping into a mech, players create their pilot, with options for customizing preset characters extensively. I anticipated a basic customization interface, but was met with a detailed tool that rivals those found in top RPGs. Players can personalize everything from their pilot’s hair to facial features, makeup, tattoos, and outfit colors, creating a truly unique look. Earning in-game currency through gameplay allows for continuous customization without the need to spend real money.
After spending ample time in the character creator, I took to the skies, experiencing three core game modes. The first was a standard 3v3 deathmatch, followed by a 6v6 mode that implemented various objectives across different maps. The standout mode was Mashmak— a PvPvE format involving 10 teams of three facing both AI and player enemies in a massive map, requiring loot collection and strategic extraction before a looming storm.
The expansive landscapes of Mecha Break are visually stunning and feature significant verticality. Each Striker boasts considerable mobility, making it easy to stay connected with teammates despite the large map size. Flying through the environments is intuitive and enjoyable, with the controls feeling seamless regardless of whether I used a mouse or a controller.
Combat is likewise engaging. While testing different mechs, I found my favorite in Alysnes, an agile, sword-wielding Striker capable of swift, aerial assaults. The game includes an interesting lock-on mechanism that allows for targeting enemies with ease, adding to the fluidity of combat encounters. Player elimination mechanics vary based on the game mode, creating a dynamic battlefield environment.
In its current form, Mecha Break evokes the adrenaline of classic mech games while maintaining its unique identity. There’s a clear commitment to quality gameplay, making players feel as though they are truly piloting colossal robots.
While the game currently lacks a single-player campaign, its ongoing narrative involving a mysterious crystal element called Corite will be supported by additional media, such as manga and animated shorts. Even without a traditional story mode, Mecha Break shines through its gameplay, which is compelling and enjoyable on its own merit.
Looking ahead, Mecha Break does not have a confirmed release date but is expected to launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2025. Enthusiasts eager for an up-close look can already add the game to their wishlists.
