Super Robot Wars V (2017) Review: The Ultimate Tactical Mecha Crossover
Released as part of the franchise's 25th-anniversary celebration, Super Robot Wars V (SRW V) stands out as a landmark entry in Bandai Namco's long-running tactical role-playing series. As the first title in the standalone 'VXT' trilogy, SRW V brought official Asian English localizations to the forefront, making it accessible to a massive global audience of mecha enthusiasts and strategy fans alike.
Developer and Playable Platforms
Developed by B.B. Studio and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, Super Robot Wars V debuted in early 2017 and later expanded across modern systems. Today, players can experience the game on multiple platforms:
- PlayStation 4 (Original 2017 release)
- PlayStation Vita (Original 2017 release)
- Nintendo Switch (2019 expanded release)
- PC via Steam (2019 expanded release)
Story and Narrative: A Cosmic Struggle for Survival
The story of Super Robot Wars V drops players into a grim, apocalyptic setting. Planetary contamination from the hostile Gamilas Empire has left Earth on the brink of total destruction, with humanity facing extinction within a single year. Players choose between two main original protagonists—Soji Murakumo or Chitose Kisaragi—who pilot the advanced prototype mecha VangRay alongside the AI companion Nine.
What elevates the narrative is its clever crossover integration. Rather than feeling like isolated stories jammed together, major anime franchises are organically woven into the overarching plot. Key featured series include:
- Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (serving as the anchor for humanity's voyage)
- Mobile Suit Gundam (Hathaway's Flash, Crossbone, SEED Destiny, and 00: Trail of the Innovator)
- Full Metal Panic!
- Neon Genesis Evangelion (Rebuild series)
- The Brave Express Might Gaine
- Martian Successor Nadesico: The Motion Picture - Prince of Darkness
Graphics and Visual Performance
Visually, Super Robot Wars V delivers a fine blend of classic grid-based tactical maps and high-budget dynamic battle cutscenes. The combat animations feature hand-drawn 2D sprites combined with fluid special effects that mirror the original anime scenes faithfully. Dynamic camera angles, energetic frame rates, authentic Japanese voice acting, and original soundtrack cuts make combat engagements visually captivating even after hours of play.
Gameplay and Accessibility
SRW V is widely recognized as one of the most accessible entries in the franchise. The addition of the Skill Route and Tac Customization systems lets players unlock passive perks and upgrades easily. While veterans may find the standard difficulty slightly easier than older games in the series, hard difficulty options and special stage challenges provide plenty of tactical depth.
Final Recommendation
Super Robot Wars V (2017) is an absolute masterclass in mecha fanservice and turn-based strategy design. Thanks to its rich storyline anchored by Space Battleship Yamato 2199, incredible dynamic battle animations, and broad platform availability on PC and Nintendo Switch, it remains an ideal entry point for newcomers and a must-play for veteran strategy enthusiasts.
Final Verdict: 9/10 - Highly Recommended!
