Even graded on a curve, this is rough. There are elements of the game that are undeniably cool, and within the context of the game's release, having a mech game like this that leaned away from the simulation elements of games like Battletech was a good call. It was a frustrating game, but also one that has enough ways to be broken that the frustration doesn't prevent progress.

Also it gave Kota Hoshino a job. He'd go on to do much better stuff, but you can see his style of composition at work already. The mech designs/settings/atmosphere in general are better than I expected, even if what would come after would stick with me more.

I can't suggest playing this game unless you're a completionist of the series, but going back to the game will be easier than you expect (although a guide will save you a ton of time).