Super Robot Taisen A Portable – Hardcore Strategy, Iconic Mechs!

super robot taisen COVER ART GWIM STYLE

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
PlatformPlayStation Portable (PSP)
GenreTactical Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Release Date June 19, 2008
DeveloperBanpresto
PublisherBandai Namco
MODESingle player

Super Robot Taisen A Portable is a turn-based strategy game that brings together some of the most iconic mecha series in anime history. Originally released on the Game Boy Advance, this PlayStation Portable remake enhances the experience with updated graphics, voiced battle animations, and new gameplay mechanics. Though it was only released in Japan, fans of the Super Robot Wars franchise and tactical RPGs have found ways to experience this thrilling crossover.

A Mecha Fan’s Dream Roster

Super Robot Taisen A Portable boasts an incredible lineup of legendary mecha from various anime series, ensuring that fans will find some of their favorites in action. The game features units from:

  • Getter Robo (including G’s Benkei and Shin Getter Robo)
  • Gundam Series: Mobile Suit Gundam, Char’s Counterattack, The 08th MS Team, 0083: Stardust Memory, Zeta Gundam, Gundam ZZ, Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz, and Mobile Fighter G Gundam
  • Mazinger Z, Great Mazinger, and UFO Robo Grendizer
  • Combattler V, Voltes V, and Tosho Daimos
  • Daitarn 3 and Zambot 3
  • Martian Successor Nadesico
  • Metal Armor Dragonar
  • Banpresto Original Characters from Super Robot Wars: Original Generation

This extensive roster allows for a diverse range of combat styles and strategies, making each battle feel dynamic and exciting.

Story and Branching Paths

Unlike some entries in the franchise, Super Robot Taisen A Portable features a standalone story, meaning newcomers can jump in without prior knowledge of other SRW titles. Players choose between Axel Almer or Lamia Loveless as the main protagonist, each with their own storyline and unique interactions with the cast. The narrative takes twists and turns, with branching paths encouraging multiple playthroughs to experience all of the different character interactions and events.

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Deep and Strategic Gameplay

As a turn-based tactical RPG, battles play out on a grid-based map where players must carefully position their mechs and manage resources. The game introduces a special evasion erosion system, making enemies with high evasion particularly challenging. This mechanic forces players to think critically about their attacks and counterattacks, adding depth to the already intricate combat system.

Other key gameplay features include:

  • Multiple pilot systems: Some larger mechs feature multiple pilots, allowing for added strategy in battle.
  • Spirit Commands: Each pilot has special abilities that can turn the tide of battle.
  • Skippable battle animations: While the action-packed sequences are impressive, players can speed things up if they prefer a quicker experience.
  • Save anywhere feature: Perfect for portable gaming, allowing for flexible play sessions.

Enhanced Visuals and Audio

Compared to its Game Boy Advance predecessor, Super Robot Taisen A Portable offers enhanced graphics, reworked battle animations, and added voice acting for combat sequences. The high-resolution sprites bring classic mecha to life with detailed attack animations that faithfully represent their anime counterparts. The soundtrack also captures the spirit of each series, further immersing players in the crossover experience.

Challenges and Difficulty

This game is considered one of the harder entries in the Super Robot Wars franchise due to its evasive enemies and strategic depth. Players must carefully upgrade their mechs, equip the right skills, and use terrain advantages to survive tougher encounters. The difficulty makes every victory feel rewarding, but it may be intimidating for newcomers to the series.

Notable Limitations

While the PSP version improves upon the original in many ways, there are some quirks and limitations:

  • Naming restrictions: Character and robot names are limited in length, sometimes leading to awkward text displays.
  • Long weapon names: Some attack names, like “Gundam Deathscythe Hell” and “Hyper Mega Particle Cannon,” overflow in the status window.
  • Underground units: Some interface text, like “Land” for surfacing units, may be confusing.
  • Audio sync issues: Certain attack animations have slightly misaligned audio cues.

Despite these minor issues, the core gameplay remains highly engaging.

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Playing on PPSSPP

For those looking to play Super Robot Taisen A Portable on PPSSPP, the game runs well with minimal compatibility issues. However, players should be cautious when using save files from the Japanese version, as it may cause text inconsistencies. Fan translations and patches have made it more accessible to non-Japanese speakers, though official localization remains unavailable.

Please visit and support the creator of the English patch for the game: Super Robot Taisen A Portable Translation PSP

Why This Game Stands Out

Super Robot Taisen A Portable delivers a satisfying blend of mecha action, strategic depth, and anime nostalgia. The extensive roster, engaging storylines, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for both SRW veterans and newcomers. Whether you’re a fan of Gundam, Mazinger Z, or Banpresto originals, this game offers an epic crossover experience that truly shines on the PSP.

GAMEFILE SIZE
Super_Robot_Taisen_A_Portable_englishpatch_v1.01.iso1.1 GB

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