Recent reviews by Lizard3209

I was in my late teens in the late 80's when computer gaming started to become powerful enough to offer the people more complex games than the typical 8-bit arcade style games that pioneered this multi-trillion dollar industry we know today. At that time new concepts were being developed. Many were never again but some due to their appeal to the players and ability to drive people’s imagination continued to live again and again each time building greater on it predecessors. I remember playing some of the earliest ones from Mechwarrior and Earth Siege to newer ones such as Hawken and Titan Fall. I have enjoyed most of them and several have brought me a lot of enjoyment. I never however had any game that brought that immersive spirit and gameplay and drop me into the belly of the beast like Vox Machinae. This isn’t your father’s iron robot.

The machines are called Grinders of which there are six models. I think the page says 5 but there is one more probably from one of the recent updates. Each have their positive and negative aspects which help keep them balanced on the playing field. Certain models are quicker than others with limited weapons and others may be armed to the hilt but slow. For early access there is quite a bit of choice here with machines and enough diversity with regards to its arenas. I’m sure this is just the beginning.

My first time inside the Grinder I felt that kid back 30 years ago only this time I didn’t have to dream what it was like. This time I was living the dream. Using my controllers (Oculus) I was able to physically grab the controls to walk forward and turn all the while controlling my torso (turret) towards where I was looking. When I looked over my shoulder towards the back I quickly saw my bed as if I had an option to take a rest after a long battle. I wasn’t just clicking controls I was physically reaching for them. Pulling the horn above my head, reaching for my CB mic to communicate to others and as they communicated back I saw there avatar on a computer screen speaking back to me! It was like being behind the wheel of a semi only this was a futuristic machine of destruction!!!

This has been by far the best VR experience I have had yet. Even though it is Early Access it doesn’t feel lacking. I am sure there are even greater things to come but as it is offers a great experience. I would love to see more avatar options in setting up your character. Of course more maps with greater challenges. I certainly would welcome more maps perhaps giving snow/ice and adding some weather effects like rain, sand storms and snow. Perhaps even some destroyed cities. And even though it is intended for Multiplayer I feel an arcade style mode allowing one to practice maneuvers against different level of AI could help improve ones skills. The training section is good but only teaches how to use the Grinder.

If you have ever been a fan of the large armored robot genre you are at a disservice to yourself if you do not have a VR set and play this game. You would not be disappointed.