Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner - M∀RS

While this fast-paced action remake brings a classic action franchise back to life, its technical issues wreck the gameplay and stand out like a sore thumb. Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner - M∀RS brings back a series that's been gone for a decade and a half. Gamers first met Dingo Egret and followed his adventure in the legendary Orbital Frame Jehuty on the PlayStation 2. Now, Konami is reintroducing the mech-based sci-fi battle over humanity's destiny in space. This time around, though, players can feel the action right from the cockpit, thanks to brand-new full VR headset support. But after 15 years, can a fresh look and new feature breathe life back into the long dormant franchise? Or is it just trying to hide its flaws behind a shiny coat of paint and a distracting gimmick? While the game sports new HD visuals, it can't help but show its age, particularly when updated elements like the mechs are shown against bland background textures. It just feels out of place.

Basic controls in Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner - M∀RS aren't the main issue. In fact, it's surprisingly easy to control the Orbital Frame. Attacks automatically switch between ranged and melee as needed, and quick dodges or tactical maneuvers are relatively fluid. The problem comes from the game's camera, which frequently can't keep up with the action on-screen. It's difficult enough to keep your bearings in standard gameplay, but in full VR mode, the problem is amplified tenfold to the point of occasional nausea. There are also some strange quirks with the targeting system, with some enemies never getting marked -- or worse, locking on to non-enemy targets. It's not a game breaker, but it's an additional frustration. Despite these issues, there's still some fun to be had in Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner - M∀RS, and it's interesting to finally get a first-person view of the action in VR. Just make sure you've got an airsick bag handy when the action picks up speed.