Steambot Chronicles: Battle Tournament – A Unique Steampunk Mech Experience on PSP

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
PlatformPlayStation Portable (PSP)
GenreAction-Adventure
Release Date Japan: July 10, 2008
North America: June 30, 2009
DeveloperIREM
PublisherATLUS
MODESingle-player / Multiplayer

Steambot Chronicles: Battle Tournament is a charming blend of open-world adventure and intense mech battles. Developed by Irem, this PSP-exclusive title builds upon the quirky, sandbox-style gameplay of the original Steambot Chronicles while focusing more on competitive Trotmobile combat. With its unique steampunk aesthetic, extensive customization, and engaging tournament battles, this game offers a refreshing take on the mech genre.

Advertisements

Gameplay and Features

At its core, Steambot Chronicles: Battle Tournament is an arena-based mech combat game where players control Trotmobiles—steam-powered mechs that can be customized with a variety of weapons, armor, and movement options. The game takes place in Orion City, a bustling hub where players participate in tournaments, take on missions, and interact with NPCs to uncover the game’s story.

Best Features:

  • Customizable Mechs – Players can modify their Trotmobiles with different weapons, arms, and enhancements, allowing for strategic and personalized combat styles.
  • Steampunk World – The game maintains the charming, steampunk-inspired setting of its PS2 predecessor, offering a unique aesthetic rarely seen in mech games.
  • Engaging Gameplay – While the focus is on arena battles, players can also explore the city, take on side quests, and uncover secrets, adding depth beyond just combat.
Advertisements

How It Compares to the PS2 Original

Unlike Steambot Chronicles on the PlayStation 2, which had a strong emphasis on open-world exploration and even included a musical instrument system, Battle Tournament focuses more on combat and competition. The removal of musical instruments may disappoint some fans, but the game compensates with an enhanced tournament system and deeper mech customization.

Trivia & Fun Facts

  • No Musical Instruments – Unlike the PS2 version, this game does not include the ability to play instruments, a notable departure from its predecessor.
  • Bumpy Trot Legacy – The Steambot Chronicles series is known as Bumpy Trot in Japan, a franchise celebrated for its lighthearted storytelling and unique world-building.
  • Quirky NPCs – The game features eccentric characters and humorous dialogue, adding to its charm and making exploration a joy.

Final Thoughts

Steambot Chronicles: Battle Tournament is a niche yet delightful mech combat experience. While it may not offer the deep open-world freedom of its PS2 counterpart, it delivers thrilling battles, an immersive steampunk atmosphere, and a fun, lighthearted story. For mech fans looking for something different on the PSP, this title is a hidden gem worth exploring.

GAMEFILE SIZE
Steambot Chronicles – Battle Tournament (USA) (PSN).iso256.MB

Advertisements

“Rediscover Retro. One Game at a Time.”

Leave a comment