Front Mission: Gun Hazard

About

Front Mission: Gun Hazard is a side-scrolling shooter that mixes action with RPG progression. You control Albert Grabner piloting a hulking mech called a wanzer through stages filled with enemies. Switch between driving the wanzer and ejecting to a more agile infantry form, each with distinct movement and attack options. Wanzer mode lets you unleash heavy fire with primary and special weapons while Albert on foot can explore tight spaces and avoid detection. Completing missions and defeating foes earns cash and experience points which you use to buy gear upgrade stats and recruit allies. These supporting characters offer cover fire and tactical advantages during missions adding depth to combat. The game’s dual control schemes and strategic layering set it apart from typical run-and-gun titles. Its 1996 release on Super Famicom made it a standout at the time with a story weaving global conflicts and political intrigue into its action. While not as well-known as some Square titles it holds a cult following for its depth and mechanical variety. The ability to hover dash and jetpack adds nuanced mobility making each stage feel dynamic. Players who enjoy tactical progression and varied combat loops might find it a hidden gem especially if they can track down a copy.

Storyline

Set in 2064, the story of Gun Hazard takes place all over the world in an alternate Front Mission universe. In the early 21st century, nations around the world fought over the control of natural resources. With natural resources dwindling in supply, the nations of the world eventually banded together to seek a solution to the growing crisis. Realizing the potential in space-based energy, they began development of an orbital elevator known as "Atlas" in 2024. As the orbital elevator's completion drew near, a breakthrough was achieved in miniature fusion reactors. The countries responsible for Atlas began to halt development of the orbital elevator and pursued miniature fusion reactor technology. Left unfinished, Atlas became a symbol of failed dreams and hopes as the world regressed back into a world of conflicts. One such conflict is the Bergen coup d'état in 2064. The plot of Gun Hazard revolves around a soldier based in Bergen, Norway named Albert Grabner (whose parents reside Eningen, Germany). In January 2064, Ark Hellbrand of the Bergen Army stages a coup d'état in an attempt to overthrow the government led by President Moss Orwen. As the coup d'état forces begin to take over the country, President Orwen radios for assistance from NORAD and a faction of the Bergen Army loyal to him. Albert Grabner is sent to act as the president's bodyguard and helps him escape the country. However, the two are eventually captured by Hellbrand. Albert escapes from prison with the help of Brenda Lockheart, a mercenary employed by the Kernelight Association. Upon escaping Bergen and reaching New York City, they visit the Kernelight Association headquarters. Hoping to return to Bergen and rescue Orwen, Albert agrees to working for the Kernelight Association to find allies that can help him overthrow Ark. As the two work for the mercenary guild and travel to war-torn countries around the world, Albert begins to see a link between the civil conflicts, the Bergen coup d'état, and an organization only known as "The Society".