One console generation later, Front Mission 4 suddenly changed course in both setting and systems. Less industrial-futuristic and more modern, it's also the most 'RPG'-esque of the series, complete with a virtual job class system dependent on equipping specific gear. Its massive open battle maps unfortunately feel dull and empty in some places, but the city levels stand out - their maze-like structure and thin paths produce some super tense situations bordering on the claustrophobic. Other features fall a little flat, both in the super punishing main missions (that force grinding to recoup losses in battle casualties) and the weaker cast, despite standing apart with its multiple perspective storyline and a unique european female protagonist.