| Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Force | |
|---|---|
| Developer(s) | Hitmaker |
| Publisher(s) | Sega |
| Series | Virtual On |
| Platform(s) | Arcade, Xbox 360 |
| Release date(s) | Arcade
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| Genre(s) | Action |
| Mode(s) | Single player |
| Rating(s) |
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| Cabinet | Sit-down |
| Arcade system | Sega Hikaru |
Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Force (電脳戦機バーチャロン フォース Dennō Senki Bācharon Fōsu) is a 3D Mecha fighting game developed by Hitmaker and published by Sega. It was released in Japanese arcades only on the Sega Hikaru arcade system board in 2001. Following its initial release, there was no home console port of the game due to the Arcade Board's superior graphical capabilities. A region free port of the game was announced to be re-released on the Xbox 360[1][2] on December 22, 2010.
The logo reads "Virtual On 4 Force," even though Force is the third Virtual On title. The "4" possibly refers to the fact that four players can compete simultaneously.
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Force differes from previous versions of the series in that it features 4-players, 2-on-2 team matches. The battle system is heavily simplified from the incredibly fast and complex Oratorio Tangram system to balance the increase in number of players. The left-turbo function is removed, and the speed is significantly slower. The game website states this as a side-effect of the V-converters being less efficient than the Mars crystals. The machine uses a magnetic card system to record player data, with the cards being called a "VO4 Pilot's License". Players start by choosing a base virtuariod, which will open up other variants in its family tree as the player plays more of the game. Because of this design, a large number of virtuaroid variants exist, and the game has the largest VR roster of any game in the series name so far.
The VO4 Pilot's License can be used with the VO4 Terminal, which lets players view records, set the pilot name, swap color schemes or use another available virtuaroid. During the lifespan of the game, an upgraded version named Virtual On Force M.S.B.S. Ver7.7, with new virtuaroids, new stages and new magnetic card face designs.
Virtual-On Marz can be considered the spiritual home console version of Force, since Marz took its rules, stages and the virtuaroids from Force, though without support for 4-player matches and only taking a select few virtuaroids, while leaving most of the variants out.
The 360 version retains the same gameplay style as the original series only with a few inclusions: 2 on 2 Leader Battles, co-op boss fight mode, a Mission mode and Xbox Live support for online play. The game also has a special Collector's edition which includes a booklet called Virtual On Chronicle 15, that looks back at 15 years of Virtual-On, and a six disc soundtrack called Virtual On Official Sound Data. All of the items come packaged in a box with artwork from Hajime Katoki.[3] The game's release date is confirmed to be December 22, 2010. Preordering of the games allows access and download a special "Thorax" item that adjusts the bust sizes of both female Virtualoids: Fei-Yen and Angelan.[4]
The original Temjin model Virtuaroid from the Oratario Tangram wars was discovered to be the only VR of its generation able to function correctly on the Jupiter front due to the interference to the J-crystals. This is a result of the "Mind Booster" mechanism installed within the cockpit to allow the pilot better control over the vernier boosters mounted onto its back. As a favorite of many veteran pilots, it was remodeled into a 3rd generation VR with very little change in its design. It was not a complete transition. Due to this, it pales in comparison to the newer generation VR.
This model is the closest relation to the 707-G model loved by all from the Oratorio Tangram wars. It is the same in terms of attack power and ability and is used by many veteran pilots. Using the latest Mk.4 model Sleipner rifle, it remains one of the most balanced VRs.
Due to the lack of ability being a transition from the 2nd generation VRs, the Temjin 707J+ was created for Temjin pilots adept at intense speed and aerial battles as an alternative to the Cypher (now Myzr) VR series. The boosters have had additional thrusters added to increase the overall mobility.
This variant of the retooled 707 was created to cater to pilots who focused on the raw firepower the Temjin contained. While the body design is the same, a new model Sleipner Mk.5 has been issued for increased attack ability. While minor adjustments were made to regulate the power-flow, the speed has been slightly decreased due to the Sleipner Mk.5's weight. This model has been seen used most often by Commanders.
The success of the original 10/80 SP resulted in the development of a newer, more powerful mass-produced model. Painted in the likeness of the MBV-04-G Temjin, it has more power and ability than the original 10/80, and technologies designed to counteract the effects of Mars Crystal were in fact first tested on the 10/80 ADV. It still suffers from being designed after a first generation Virtuaroid and design-wise is not on-par with 3rd generation VRs. To streamline production cost, a submachinegun-sized weapon working in a way similar to Vulcan Cannon of the Cypher/Myzr series was issued. Most are deployed to man static defensive positions, although ace pilots have been found to use them for mobile warfares.
Although the Temjin 707 series has proven to be an overall success on the Martian front, its lack of power due to the old design proved to be an issue needed to be addressed. The result was the newer model 747 series. While fundamentally the same as the 707 series, the 747 series is a true 3rd generation design. Armed with a Sleipner Mk.6, it is incredibly powerful and is slowly phasing-out of the older 707 series as the flagship VR of the 8th plant "Reference Point."
The default formation of the newer 747 models, this model has proven to be a powerhouse in all fields of battle. It can perform a one-handed radical-zapper formation as well as the cross-slash Wave formation. It can eject most of its armor to revert to the MBV-747T model.
Created using data retrieved from tests of the 707J+, this VR is specially armored for flight and speed-based battles. This unit proved to be the favorite of those who primarily use the Mzyr series and are used to aerial-battles. The armor and weapons have similar construction to the Myzr VR series. It serves as a helpful alternative to the Myzr due to its stronger armor. It can eject the F-armor to revert to the MBV-747T.
A radical redesign in the Temjin series, this VR is armed to the teeth with heavy firepower weapons and thick armor. It caters primarily to Temjin pilots used to its far-range capabilities. Among its vast armament is the new double-barrel Cloud-Sleipner Mk.1, a shoulder cannon, a booster-mounted grenade launcher, and the bombs used by all units. While it has decent close range fighting capabilities, the extra armor hinders its normally high speed. It can eject the H-armor and equipment to revert to the MBV-747T.
The 747 model in its most basic form. It uses only the most basic weaponry and its mechanics are heavily exposed. Lacking any type of specialized equipment or armor, it does not fare as well in combat as the other variants. Should the battle situation change to work against the specific type of Temjin in use however, it is the best alternative.
In the Oratorio Tangram wars, the Apharmd gained recognition as the most customizable VR of its generation, having many different forms to cater to different needs. In the introduction of the 3rd generation VRs, the redesign has taken a more radical change. The Apharmd Jaguar series, descended from the Apharmd-B model, is more short and sleek than the 2nd generation series. Created for high speed, agile, and close range combat, it is strictly for close range guerilla combat and is highly unsuitable for far range battles.
The main model of the Apharmd J series armed with the same weapons as the Apharmd B from the Oratario Tangram wars. It uses dual Sub Machine guns and a pair of Tongfers. While it remains one of the greatest VRs around for close range combat, its defense has been incredibly compromised due to its smaller frame. It relies on its speed to win battles.
A specialized version of the type-C exists in the Xbox 360 version of FORCE, the RVR-24-C-HC. This unit is the specialized Apharmd J type-C of Sergeant Issy Hatter, its head adorned with his trademark fedora.
This Apharmd J is based on the second-generation Apharmd C model. Similar to the Apharmd J type-C, the only significant change is the equipment. The Tongfers are removed and replaced with a removable machete on the left arm. It carries a long-range rifle for firepower and is better suited for mid-range combat than the C model.
An Apharmd J armed with large fists over its normal manipulators. It is meant for pilots who are fist fighters at heart and are able to better control the hands of the VR through the Reverse-conversion drive. It lacks significant firepower however, and is granted to expert close-range fighters only.
An Apharmd created for quick reconnaissance missions. This unit utilizes sonic waves through a megaphone, and contains a cloaking device used to blend into its environment.
Similar to the type-C and type-G type models, this Apharmd was created for people adept at close range combat using kicks rather than punches. Saws have been attached to its legs as a means of adding power to its kicks. It is armed with a magnum pistol for firepower.
Descended from the Apharmd S series of the Oratario Tangram wars, the Apharmd Tiger series is the polar opposite of the Jaguar series. Whereas the J series is small, sleek and quick, the T series is large, bulky and slow. The added defense and limb strength makes it ideal for heavy firepower and long range weaponry. However, it is still poor for close-range combat, often using its firearms as a cudgel.
Based on weapon data collected from the Apharmd S and Apharmd A models (Apharmd A specific to OMR), this Apharmd T is recognized as the most balanced model of the T series for pilots. Using the same shoulder mounted cannon as the S-model and an arm-mounted version of the ORKNEY Launcher used by the A-model, it works well for far-range combat.
Using limb-mounted missile-based weaponry, this model is more agile than other T models, but still not enough for effective close range combat. It uses the same long-range rifle as the Apharmd J type-A.
A special T model armed specifically for close-range combat. It has leg-mounted thrusters to greatly improve its mobility. Unlike other T models, it carries no far-range weapons, instead being armed with twin magnum pistols and an enhanced version of the Apharmd J Type-A's machete.
This is a T version of the RVR-81-X Apharmd J type-X. It uses the same equipment and exchanges speed for armor.
After the third plant "Mooney Valley" was reconstructed into "Adex", the plant worked to combine two existing VR models into a single unit. The stable design of the firepower heavy Belgdor and GRYS-VOK, with the heavily-armored muscular design of the Dorkas and Dordray, resulted in the creation of the multifunctional VR VOX unit. This unit at its core, is a hunchbacked VR with tiny arms providing little functionality than carrying small rifles. However, various equipment and armor has been produced to quickly change it into a completely different VR reminiscent of the two VRs it was built off of. It is a force to be reckoned with as a single unit can very quickly be changed into a different unit to suit the situation.
The most commonly used VOX model on the battlefield. Its design is based on the GRYS-VOK of the Oratorio Tangram wars. It is armed with many missile launchers and a small machine gun held in its hands. It is not as fast as the GRYS-VOK however. It serves as the main competition to the Apharmd series, as it is used in guerilla combat.
Constructed as an original model with slight similarities to the Dordray, it is a very cost-efficient VR with strong weapons, such as a heavy submachine gun and an energy baton. It serves as a slightly stronger model to the Dan model.
A model based on the construction of the original Dorkas from Operation Moongate. It has heavy armor, a claw mounted on its right arm, and a hammer weapon that can be launched from afar. It is used mostly by veterans who grew used to the Dorkas design.
A sister unit to the Joe model, this VOX model is built almost exactly the same as its brother; the claw arm has been switched to the left arm however, and the hammer replaced with an ejectable chainsaw.
A VOX Dan with additional firepower, but slower speed and weaker close combat abilities.
A VOX based on the Dordray unit from the Oratario Tangram wars. It carries the clamp and drill used by its ancestor and shares many of its moves, including its ability to use its disk as a weapon. The original arms have been removed, replaced with a built-in vulcan cannon.
An original model to the VOX series armed with a heat-saw knife, an SMG, and the same cloaking technology utilized by the Apharmd J and T type-X. It has thrusters added to its legs. It showed to be very unpopular among gamers.
An odd original VOX design. Its body from the head up is half of the Dan design with the other half being a normal manipulator with a chain machine-gun. The lower half utilizes a hovercraft instead of legs, giving added mobility.
The most powerful VOX unit in existence. It is armed with heavy cannons on its shoulders and arms and tank-type treads instead of legs. It has very low mobility, but its firepower is unrivaled by any other missile type. Its poor mobility decreases its value however and as such it is regarded more as a tank than a virtuaroid.
The latest incarnation of the Viper model series and the evolution of the transformable Cypher. Redeveloped by Dr. Yzerman at the sixth plant "Satchel Mouth", this VR is primarily made for aerial combat and high speed battles. Like the Cypher, it can transform into a jet fighter to double as a mode of long range transportation. It still suffers the age-old issue of the Viper series; its transformation mechanisms must be left unarmored to function. As such, it cannot last long against heavy firepower. It is meant for pilots who are adept at high speed piloting.
The basic model Myzr. It retains most of its abilities from the Cypher model including the breakneck speed, arm-mounted vulcan cannon and energy-daggers. It is highly menuverable in its jet-fighter form.
The same model as Myzr Δ with a new model Vulcan cannon. The vulcan cannon provides more stable fire than the Δ version, although it provides less suitable defense. Rather than daggers as its predecessor and Δ models use, it uzes multiple missiles similar to the original Viper-II virtuaroid.
The same model as Myzr Δ with a new model Vulcan cannon. This variant is meant as a reconnaissance type, and its Vulcan can double as an energy-projected shield. It is not suitable for close range combat however as the blade is heavily underpowered.
The first female VR continues to be a main-speed type. Her appearance has switched from a ballerina to a type of French maid. She retains her rapier, arm-mounted laser, and hyper mode.
The basic Fei-Yen model. Fast speed, weak weapons (until hyper mode).
A shorter Fei-Yen model. Heavier firepower with weaker melee skills.
This model Fei-Yen was created to take advantage of the Hyper-mode, and therefore performs best only while in that phase. There is little difference between it and the VividHeart model besides that.
An unusual variant of the VividHeart model, this VR does not carry a rapier, but rather a waitress dish.
The Bal series has always been a testbed for new ideas and technology to be incorporated into VR standards, the 3rd generation models are no different. Constructed at the 8th plant "Flesh Refoe", the Bal model carries its ability to change form from the waist down from its ancestor model Bal-Bados. It also still uses its trademark Ejectable-Remote-Limb system, which has been tuned to be more precise in its actions. Still, it requires a highly-skilled pilot to properly use. For reasons unknown, a sister-model has been created to the Bal series. While the upper body design is different, the technical specs are the same.
The model used for the original Bal-Bas-Bow and later the conversion to Bal-Keros, this unit is equipped with a hover unit instead of legs. Its movement is unhindered by terrain, although it makes quick turning more difficult. Like all Bal units, it carries 4 ERLs that can be used in certain combinations. A high-density beam-cannon is installed inside its chest, which remains regardless of which formation is in use. Its sister unit is the XBV-821f-S Bal m Rino.
This model was the default formation of the 2nd generation Bal-Bados. While the legs help its ability to respond quickly to side and back motion, the overall stance and walking movement is awkward due to the leg design. The 2 additional ERLs are stored inside its thighs. This model is the preferred model of pilots who have not yet been able to master the Bal's unusual control-style. Its sister unit is the XBV-821f-C Bal M Landa, which has shown to be less clumsy in this formation.
A new formation to the Bal series, this model has an unusual four-legged lowerhalf. While it can be cumbersome if used by an inexperienced pilot, this model has shown to have greatly improved walking-control over the Meora and Cista models. The ERLs are stored in the core waist. This formation is often underused due to its unusual appearance however. Its sister unit is the XBV-821f-E Bal s Rimso.
Raiden was originally the first heavy attack VR in existence alongside the Temujin. Due to its strong design, shoulder-mounted laser irradiators, and powerful bazooka, it was extremely costly to produce, which resulted in a mere handful being created. Such units were given to DNA's "Special Heavy Battle Virtuaroid Division", better known as the SHBVD. At some point in the Oratario Tangram war, the 5th Plant "Deadly Dudely", which helmed the production of this titan VR, was abandoned. As such, Raiden production ceased. After the move onto the Martian front, the newly recreated 3rd plant now known as "Adex" obtained the plans from Deadly Dudely and began producing redeveloped Raidens. With more resources and technology brought over by the VOX line, several new variants of Raidens have appeared. Adex has not been able to perfectly recreate the original laser irradiator cannons, and have only been able to create less-powerful variations of the warship weapon.
The default model of Raiden created by Adex. While it lacks the level of firepower used by the original Deadly Dudely models, it is still a powerhouse and feared on the battleground. Several of these new models were given to the SHBVD to replace their aging 2nd generation Raidens; they refused at first, but when they realized their stronger Raidens from the Deadly Dudely were unable to operate on the martian front, they had no choice but to accept. It still has the basic Raiden equipment; Shoulder-mounted Laser Irradiators, a hand-held bazooka, and land mines that can be launched from the left hand. It suffers from the same low-speed issue the very 1st Raidens had however.
When the original Raidens produced under Deadly Dudely were first designed, they carried the double barrel Flat Launcher which fired energy shots instead of solid rounds. Deadly Dudely was unable to regulate the powerflow to allow the Raiden to use such a weapon, so the idea was scrapped. Adex has redesigned the Flat Launcher so it now operates with an independent powersource, allowing Raiden to change weapons by simply picking them up. This model is essentially the same as the E2 model, merely with a flat launcher instead of a bazooka.
An experiment in pioneering the Raiden's close range abilities by Adex, this model is very different from any Raiden seen in the past. Its shoulder lasers were retooled to use the fragment claw formation by default rather than only in close range, and it carries around a beam-sword. Mounted on its left arm is the "spark knuckle", a knuckle-duster used to deliver shocking punches. This is the first Raiden in history to carry a beam saber and specialize in close range. Due to the lack of heavy far-range armament, it is faster than most Raidens.
Another experimental Raiden produced by Adex. This model, while appearing very large, is still lighter than the E1 and E2 units. Its shoulder lasers are fixed into the "spider" formation which can be launched similar to the Bal's ERLs and attack with laser fire. An energy rifle similar to that of the 10/80 ADV and Myzr has been mounted onto the right arm. It also has thrusters mounted on its legs.
Possibly Adex's most outrageous experiment yet. Although the body from the waist up is the same as the E1 and E2 models, the legs have been replaced with hover units similar to the hover unit of Bal d Meora. Now with extremely high mobility, the Raiden is now much more capable than it was before. It still suffers from the same problem the Bal d Meora faces; a lack of control during movement. The N1 model carries a Flat-Launcher, while the N2 model carries a bazooka.
First introduced in the Oratario Tangram wars, the Specineff was an experiment by Dr. Yzerman of the Sixth plant "Satchel Mouth." The EVL binder installed inside the V-converter actually harnesses the dark desires of humans and the deceased souls of pilots trapped within cyber-space and the Reverse-Conversion and refines it into a form of usable energy. Equipped with a beam launcher that can be used as a scythe and a skeletal design, the Specineff became feared on the battlegrounds. Most pilots were found to have eventually committed suicide after using this machine however. Some assume it was some sort of leak in the V-converter. The newer model Specineff has been rebuilt to hopefully solve this problem, as it relies more on basic construction and less on the EVL binder.
The default model Specineff of the new model line. It is very similar to the first Specineff with very little change in the weapons or ability. The power of the beam scythe has been strengthened however, and it is able to launch its wings to create the EVL shuriken.
A new model to the Specineff. This model uses a heavy beam-axe rather than a sycthe, and as such suffers a bit in mobility. It should be noted that the axe actually draws dark emotions such as hate, malice and pain from the V-converter to power itself, and has more power than the beam scythe. CW is very similar to VOOT Specineff however it cannot pass through walls but can go over slopes.
The final model produced for the Specineff, which Dr. Yzerman personally produced. Armed with spiked armor and a huge chainsaw version of the beam launcher, it is both frightening and powerful. This variant is powered with the max setting of the EVL binder in effect. Due to the stories circulating about the EVL binder, many have refused to pilot it. Those who have were changed completely or found dead in the cockpit once the unit had reached its peak combat level. It is possible that this Specineff, due to the mass amount of dark energy inside the V-converter, is aware of its existence. CW fires shots that disables enemy weapons.
Introduced during the Oratario Tangram wars, this VR was designed by the young Plajiner after her success with the Fei-Yen model had become apparent. This model is designed after both a witch and an angel. It is capable of creating and manipulating ice magic through the V-converter. It can created powerful Ice dragons which seek out their targets and crush them. A pair of wings have been known to randomly sprout from the V-converter during combat. In truth, the Angelan was created as a containment unit. During Oratario Tangram, the crystal formation soldier A-jim appeared. Angelan was created to allow humanity to contain A-jim and study him. It failed to work. (The only person to ever get close to A-jim was Jennifer Poison of RNA's "Rose sisters", and this is because she did not share the mean-spirited attitudes shared by her comrades.) The newer model Angelans still follow the basic principles of the original, only minor tweaks in the system and design have been made.
The basic model Angelan, able to manipulate ice magic. It is a very balanced unit, adept at both close, mid, and far range combat.
The second model Angelan is the same body design, but with a different crystal used to produce ice magic. This crystal, while slower to produce ice magic, is more ideal for mid-range combat.
The third model Angelan is the same body design, but with a different crystal used to produce ice magic. This crystal has shown to improve its performance greatly in all fields. Sadly, it takes a much longer time to regain energy used.
Another twisted experiment by Dr. Yzerman of the Sixth plant "Satchel Mouth." Yzerman attempted to pluck the soul of the fugitive warrior Kagekiyo, the samurai protector to the house of Hei, from the dead and trap it within the V-converter. Ultimately succeeding, he managed to break down Kagekiyo's spirit, which allowed the Virtuaroid to be produced in normal numbers. The Kagekiyo visually resembles a samurai warrior of the sixteenth century and is often armed with enlarged versions of basic samurai weaponry. Some are concerned as to Yzerman's utilization of Kagekiyo's spirit, as some claim that their Kagekiyo VR have gone berserk.
This model of Kagekiyo is armed with a Daisho, meaning a longsword katana and a shortsword wakizashi. The helmet design is modeled after the helmet of Date Masamune, better known as the "One Eyed Dragon". It has basic functionality and is the preferred choice of young pilots fascinated by its design. Its main source of firepower is creating floor panels which are launched at the enemy. As an alternative, the Fuu model can switch its Daisho for a bow and arrow set as a separate VR choice.
This Kagekiyo is armed with a staff with a helmet design similar to a Japanese priest.
The most well-known of all Kagekiyo models. It is armed with a single katana and sports an original helmet design. It is a balanced choice used by new to veteran pilots. Many favor it simply for its simplicity.
This Kagekiyo is armed with a polearm and is similar in design to the Rin design. Its helmet is a simplistic helmet. It is an alternative to pilots used to the Rin design but with a need to cut.
The third sister unit concept created by Plajiner. Guarayakha is an odd Virtuaroid; short in stature and weaponry. Its concept is meant to mimic the magical girl concept. It has a voice and will apologize to its opponent once they have been defeated. However, the true purpose of Guarayakha is to function as a containment unit, similar to its older system Angelan. When the bug known as Jaguarandi materialized itself into the real world, it created a panic among the syndicates and the Virtuaroid armies. Guarayakha was created to contain Jaguarandi and allow humans to study it. It ultimately backfired. Jaguarandi was able to manifest itself more easily through the body of the Guarayakha, morphing its body into a monster and killing the pilot. Once Jaguarandi has exhausted its strength, it leaves and the Guarayakha returns to its normal shape.
The crystalloid VR known as A-jim was thought to be the only one of his kind. However, a second Crystal VR was eventually discovered, this one in the form of a female as opposed to the male shaped A-jim. It is speculated that this is A-jim's "mate", although nothing has been proven. They fight hard to protect the Jupiter crystals.
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