Gundam Evolution is built for Gundam fans and FPS players looking for a new game to try, and developers hope to bridge that gap in different territories by targeting player satisfaction first. For as much consideration that was put into the game’s competitive mechanics, fun still played a core part in designing its characters. Game Rant spoke to Gundam Evolution executive producer Kazuya Maruyama and gameplay director Ryota Hogaki about Bandai Namco’s design approach for the upcoming game.

RELATED: Gundam Evolution Doesn’t Need the Overwatch Comparisons

Gundam Evolution Strives to Make Every Mech Feel Fun

The most important part of a hero-shooter like Gundam Evolution is its roster. It may feel like there is a deficit of mechs at launch, especially considering there are over 1,000 potential mecha candidates to choose from, but those who made the game were mostly chosen for how they fit into gameplay concepts. However, as Maruyama points out, these robots’ intended roles do not define how they are played.

There are instances where Gundam Evolution’s design restricts certain styles, like shotguns lacking range and the GM Sniper struggling to land shots while unscoped. That doesn’t mean the characters are lacking in versatility, however. The GM Sniper and the Methuss are both technically support units that can heal and buff their allies, but their ability to deal damage does not suffer for this. Similarly, many aggressive units have ways to safely disengage and even heal themselves between fights. If a player likes one given unit enough, Bandai Namco hopes they will be able to find an effective playstyle that feels right.

Individual Enjoyment is a Priority in Gundam Evolution

Gundam Evolution is still a team shooter, but the fact that every character can handle itself in a fight allows player skill to come first. A good pilot using all of their tools effectively can still eke out wins in tough duels and even group battles, according to the developers, allowing a skilled skirmisher or cautious support player to slot into any team. Maruyama said the diverse equipment available to all units sets Gundam Evolution apart from other shooters and makes it rewarding to learn.

That’s not to say the game’s team aspect has been set aside. Rather, the game design encourages people to play the role they feel they need to with whatever character they choose. This sort of flexibility is rare in the hero-shooter space, and Gundam Evolution has seemingly pulled it off so far. Some units will still be better on certain maps or against particular units, but Gundam fans should be able to hone their skills and succeed with their mobile suit of choice.

Gundam Evolution will hold a closed network test on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S from June 23 to 28.

MORE: Gundam Evolution’s Three Game Modes Explained