Customisation and missions
Chrome Hounds also allows for a fair degree of customisation to the vehicles, such as adding new weapon mods, COM upgrades, or even changing the positioning of the cockpits. There are eight different sections of the mech that can be built upon, from legs that increase the weight that you can carry or the speed of your vehicle, to spacers, which structurally expand your Hound so that more parts can be added. The modifications don’t stop there; you can also makeover the look of the machine through the use of skin mods and items that are picked up in missions. This degree of personalisation is something that seems to be creeping into games more and more these days, but it’s a welcome addition and a rest from the hectic battles.
Mission are graded based on a number of factors, the accuracy of hits, damage taken, and the amount of time it has taken you to complete the objective. The higher the grade, the bigger the reward will be. These unlockables come in the form of the parts needed to upgrade your mechs.
Click for larger imageThe main bulk of the missions involve attacking or defending a certain area. The map provides an instant reference to your teammate’s locations through a grid that marks out positions like H6 or F4. The map is well laid out and even a novice map-reader will find it simple and easy to understand. In the single player mode you’ll often receive communications from other friendly vehicles stating their positions. By looking at the map you can then determine the best course of action - whether you want to flank the enemy or dive straight into the firing line, the map helps you to make a tactical decision based on your teammates positions.
Click for larger imageThe screen display and sub menus cover every piece of information that you’ll need in order to successfully complete a mission. You’ll see a hit point gauge on the right hand side of the screen, alongside a fuel, temperature and energy gauge, as well as ammo counters, timers and even compass radar which detects enemy movement.
