Metascore
68 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 20 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 20
  2. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. With its catchy graphics and refreshing gameplay ideas, it turned my skepticism into a full-fledged, addictive gaming experience.
  2. 85
    Does the formula of giant robots and three-tiered combat succeed? Definitely. But there are a few quirks along the way to deal with, most notably the anemic unit pathfinding AI.
  3. What it lacks in storyline depth and musical variety, it makes up for in addictive gameplay and detailed battle animations.
  4. 84
    A great RTS game with several nice wrinkles to distinguish it from the general morass that has become the norm recently.
  5. 80
    The real standout feature that sets this game apart is how players must manage their forces not only on the planet's surface, but also in the asteroid orbit above, and in the deep tunnels and caverns below.
  6. It's what I like to call a concept game; Great ideas but the implementation is a little rough. With a little more polishing this could be an A-title.
  7. 71
    Just one more of the group of unremarkable strategy games on the market already.
  8. A better-than-average RTS game with some compelling elements, marred by multiplayer game balance issues and a sometimes dull single-player game.
  9. This isn't a game that sets out to change the world or to redefine the genre, but rather to rehash an existing genre in a solid and playable way. An objective which it achieves with room to spare.
  10. Has some arguably unique approaches, but seems to be lacking many of the checks and balances that would reign said approaches in from out-of-control excesses to interesting novelties.
  11. Need an RTS fix? Giant Fighting Robot fan? Look no further.
  12. Without the 'Bots, Metal Fatigue is just real-time strategy grizzle, with them it's neat, cool, fun, even occasionally challenging.
  13. All in all, Metal Fatigue is a great variation on an all-too-common theme, and will surely provide hours of high-energy robot-smashing fun to anyone willing to see past its minor flaws.
  14. An alternative name for the aptly titled Metal Fatigue could just as well be "Human Fatigue" in terms of stamina required to enjoy the experience.
  15. Fun to watch and play, but unless a patch fixes the AI it is only a game for big fans of mecha or RTS games, as that bothersome element makes it that much less enjoyable.
  16. The game's unbalanced units, as well as a few interface problems, cut it short of its potential.
  17. An intriguing take on the genre that should have paid more attention to the RTS basics. [Oct 2000, p.130]
  18. Giant robots Good, lame story Bad, stealing sechnology Good, weak level design Bad, nothing innovative... that's bad Homer.
  19. The gameplay is solid, but there is very little supporting it, and oh so very much holding it at bay.
User Score

Universal acclaim- based on 21 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. ChrisK.
    7
    This is probably the only real time strategy game so far by 2006, which has AIs assembling mechanical bots (the large androids people think are Gundam Wing action figures). Intuitive and original... only thing missing... map editor. If you buy the game, know that the fights will be more reckless skirmishes than strategic manuvers like any other real time strategy games. The most fun I have gotten out of this game was probably just building a base with killer robots and make it look cool. You play in the skies, on the surface, and underground. Your robots also fly! Woosh. Sad to say, the giant androids are probably the only thing keeping this game alive. Full Review »
  2. One of my favorite games in childhood, and its really a remake worth, or a sequel. I love the way how you build your robots, fight with them and maybe shoot of the arm of another robot to pick it up for you own and continue the fight with it. Full Review »
  3. Anonymous
    10
    Metal Fatigue is the, in my eyes, best RTS ever. Sure, the graphics aren't that great - but the #1 rule for video games is still: gamplay > graphics. And gameplay is the thing that Metal Fatigue makes superior compared to other RTS-games. Full Review »