Game Structure
"Zone of the Enders: The Fist of Mars" consists of four main stages: "Dialogue," "Strategy," "Tactics," and "Intermission." Most scenarios include all four stages and must be cleared by passing through each step. Dialogue Stage
Progression of scenarios begins here.
Strategy Stage
This stage allows players to view strategic objectives before the actual battle. An arrow on the map indicates areas that must be cleared to progress to the next scenario.
Tactical Stage
Players use unit commands to execute strategies and defeat the enemy. The map provides an overhead view of the entire area, which is divided into squares.
Intermission Stage
Various configurations can be set, and data saving and loading can be performed during this stage.
Next Scenario
This screen marks the transition between scenarios.
Turn Structure
In the Tactical Stage, one complete turn consists of one Player Phase and one Enemy Phase. The player and enemy take turns making moves until the battle concludes.
1. Player Phase
Try to defeat the enemy using unit commands such as "Attack" and "Move."
Phase Complete
2. Enemy Phase
Enemy units make moves based on the computer's strategy. Once all units have moved, the phase completes automatically.
Turn Complete
Attack and Weaponry
There are two different methods of attack: shooting and close combat. Choose weapons and methods carefully by judging the situation accurately.
Shooting Attack
Use projectiles with long-range capabilities, such as missiles and beam cannons, for distances of two or more squares. Shorter-range weapons may be used from a one-square distance.
NOTE: Attack is limited to one enemy unit at a time.
Close Combat Attack
This type of attack is used on enemies positioned very closely. generally, close combat only occurs between parties separated by a maximum distance of one square.
NOTE: Some units can conduct close combat from a distance of two or more squares.
Special Attacks and Map Details
Stun Attack
Stun weapons possess the ability to immobilize targets for a full turn, preventing "Move" or "Attack" actions and decreasing Evasion ability by 50%. Targets recuperate fully by the next turn.
NOTE: Mid and end bosses are unaffected by Stun Attacks. Making a Stun Attack on an already "stunned" target has no effect.
Tactical Map Features
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Town (Within spheres): Includes buildings, roads, bridges, slums, and ghost towns.
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Mountain: Mountains vary in size.
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River: All rivers shown are of a standard width.
Attacking Procedure
Battle is initiated by drawing close to the enemy. Battles take place one-on-one.
1. Place the cursor on an allied unit and press the A Button to access the Unit Command window. Select "Attack" with the A Button.
2. This leads to the Weapons Screen, where available weapons are white and unavailable ones are red. Select the desired weapon.
3. The areas open to attack will be shaded red on the map, centered on your unit.
4. Place the cursor on the enemy unit to be attacked and press the A Button to enter the selection.
Player Phase Mechanics
The battle begins when the A Button is pressed from the Data Confirmation Screen. The screen displays remaining time and target areas.
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The player must attack the target within the allotted time by placing the cursor on the target with the + Control Pad and pressing the A Button.
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Upon completing an attack, the player returns to the Tactical Map, where damage, experience levels, and monetary status are displayed.
NOTE: Upgrade notices are also shown here.
Critical Hits
By placing the cursor on the target's weak point, it is possible to make a Critical Hit, causing massive damage.
Enemy Attack and Enemy Phase
The enemy stages a computer-controlled attack during the Enemy Phase. Battles generally take place one-on-one, and both player and enemy data are visible on the Defense Data Confirmation Screen.
The TIME display indicates the amount of time in IAS Battle Mode that the enemy has to execute an attack.
Begin Battle
Pressing the A Button launches the enemy's attack. The screen shows remaining time and target areas.
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The player must evade these areas as much as possible within the allotted time by directing the unit with the + Control Pad.
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If the player cursor is placed within the enemy's target area, an ALERT appears on the screen.
If you are hit, or if the IAS Battle Mode time runs out, the game returns to the Tactical Map, where damage levels may be viewed.
Unit Maintenance
Allied units may be maintained during the Player Phase with specific commands.
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Supply: Re-stocks ammunition.
Units undergoing Repair or Supply will be temporarily unable to fight.
Completing the Phase
When the player has completed a turn, pressing the A Button on an empty Tactical Map square displays the General Command Menu.
1. Select "Phase Complete."
2. Select "Yes" on the Confirmation Screen.
This allows the enemy a chance to attack. By alternating turns between the player and the enemy, the scenario is eventually cleared.
Battle Systems
There are two different modes in the Battle Stage: "Standard Battle Mode" and "IAS Battle Mode."
Standard Battle Mode
This mode uses various parameters such as Attack Power, Defense Power, Evasion