Project Phantasma takes some ambitious strides, but unfortunately I feel they were misdirected. Two main alterations stand out: a) a more traditional narrative with recurring characters and dialogue takes centre-stage, contrasted against the original's total lack of narrative structure, and b) while there are fewer missions, they are generally a more considered, structured affair, often to compliment the narrative.

Regarding the first, a strong central narrative is a strange fit with the structure of the previous game, which re-emerges here. The anarcho-capitalist dystopia that was so effectively sold there, with the player dispassionately and without loyalty accepting jobs from competing, faceless mega-corporations, all while trying to stay out of debt, is greatly diminished with such a consistent employer in Sumika. While technically faceless inside her AC, the game attempts to endear the player to her. While this is all well and good in most games, it doesn't really track with the Armored Core structure; why am I paying out of pocket for ammo and repairs like some mercenary? What's the team dynamic here? It's an awkward attempt to graft a more traditional narrative onto a structure that wasn't built for it, and Armored Core's particular brand of dystopia is lost in the process.

As for the second change, the levels themselves are more consistent and considered. I enjoyed the randomness of the first game's levels, which would vary wildly in length and complexity at the drop of a hat, but with the new narrative style I think this change was probably the right call.

I still enjoyed my time with the game, as I find the mechanics compelling enough on their own and the mech customisation remains engaging. Project Phantasma is a good game, just one with some misplaced priorities.