Mass Effect Gaiden: Planet Stronghold

Replace Nelson with Shepard



This is like that coming of age anime, guise.



Or Baldur's Gate.


What were those robots? Why did they attack us?
Those RoboAnts are used for training here at the base. I don't know why they attacked us. It has never happened before.
...

The two glance at one another with a serious expression. I think... they may be hiding something from me. But I just arrived and I can't insist too much, so I don't pursue it further.



They wanted to kill you, Shepard. Just like they killed Ma and Pa Shepard in Mars...

So... what will I be doing here?
You'll be training for combat and continuing studies in your specialization.
There are plenty of extremely skilled instructors stationed here. Myself included, obviously. That fight was nothing compared to what you will encounter in the future. All your enemies were the same kind. The real fight begins when you're facing different kinds of enemies, and the challenge starts when you're having to dodge combined special attacks.
I see. It sounds exciting. I'm eager to start my training here.
Let's move now. I need to show you the training facility.
I'll show him everything. If that's all right with you, Tom?

Oh! Sorry, I mean.. Lt. Shatz!
Yes, sure. You can show him.
Sorry to disappoint you, but you've already done more than enough for him. It would be inappropriate for a high ranking officer to stay any longer.
All right.
I better be going now before someone comes looking for me. Nelson, follow Sergeant Fox and stay out of trouble!
Yes, sir!

I follow Fox to the main building of the military base. I see her press a button to open the entrance and we walk through a series of corridors. One after another, they don't seem to end. This place is a giant maze!

Don't worry. It seems confusing at first, but once you get familiar with the inner transport system there's nothing to it.


We journey further inside and stop at one of the rooms.

This is your room. You'll share it with another private. He's only been here a few months now.

Sigh, sharing room with another guy.


Phillip Koenig! Wake up immediately!
Gah! I-I'm sorry...
I hope you'll take example from Pvt. Joshua Nelson. He is always vigilant!

Whoa. Thanks, teach.



Check out that Hitler moustache. Seriously.



I peer into the room from behind Sgt. Fox. I see why she was so angry. This Phillip guy was talking a nap.

Now go get changed! Your training is about to start! Get on top of things, private!

Fox stomps out of the room and slams the door. She's such an irascible person!

A hothead, that Rebecca. I can't stand anything about that woman, save for that body of hers. In any case, pleased to meet you, Koenig.
Call me Philipp.
Oh, all right. Pleased to meet you, Philipp.
Pleasure is all yours, Joshua.
(Damn, am I really going to share a room with Skyway? He's not the friendly type.. to say the least.)
I'm going to change. Don't touch anything. I've got this room memorized, newbie.
Don't worry. (Asshole. This definitely isn't going to work out.)

I begin to unpack my stuff. I look over on Phillip's bed and notice a very funny looking hat there.



Jeez, Skyway. Chill out...bah.



Maybe he's just in a bad mood.
I decide to avoid arguing with him... for now. But he better not make this a habit.

I'm coming. By the way, nice hat!

I try not to laugh as I say it.

...Yeah. Whatever.

He's getting so far ahead of me now. Is he trying to lose me??



Whoa, looks like he's warming up to me.

Wait, slow down!
No, we need to hurry! Our training is starting soon! Follow me: I'll show you where the main training is... if you can keep up!
Hey! Wait up!


Additional areas are unlocked through dialogues or plot. For now, let's hit the training facility.

Moments of walking later...

We enter a huge room. It's really impressive. There must be hundreds of soldiers here, all aligned in several rows. In the center, a block of hi-tech supercomputers projects holograms of the planet, along with many other statistics.


Very well. Everyone is here. Let's start. 320 recruits. That's how many of you are in this room right now. Of those 320, only 8 will be selected to become part of the Royal Guard on the outpost of Planet Stronghold. Yes. Eight.
You see all the supercomputers in this room? They'll assess your potential, with no possibility of mistakes. So, don't think you'll have an easy life here.

She comes down from the mezzanine and starts walking around. She's heading straight towards me.


(Pfff... that was clearly directed at me.)
You'll have to sweat to reserve your place in history.

If history is located in your bed, I'll sweat right away.

She quickly turns her head and looks Philipp in the eyes. With a ferocious grin she shouts.


Y-yes ma'am!
All right. The droid instructors will explain the basics as a refresher for those of you who have forgotten. I will meet you again in an hour at the virtual battle arena.

She walks out, still looking uptight. Several androids starts splitting up the recruits into smaller groups. Each groups is made of four people... except mine. It's just me and Skyway.

I used this opportunity to ask the bot for more info. Here are some interesting nuggets:






Good advice. Let's check out Skyway's skill set.



Looks like he's a scout. Skilled in sniping and Sneaking/Survival as non combat skill. With a Protection Psionic. Not bad...
We've learned enough for now.

Ok, enough talking about this.
Yeah. I need some action.
I agree with you on this one.
Oh really? Very well, follow me, you two.

Uh oh...

You see those robots there? They'll be your first combat training test.
Good. Some fun at last!
Wait, I've alraedy met model 02 on my arrival but... there's also another model?
Yes, it's the RoboAnt model 06, one of my favourite training robots.

I'd love to be blown up by you, Fox.

They..they have energy weapons?
Oh, not just that. They can also hit hard with their special attack 'Phasor Blast'.
What...this isn't fair!
C'mon, weren't you eager to fight? Now show me what you can do!
Yes...sir.
Wait. Recruit Nelson?
Y-yes, Sgt?
Take this First Aid Kit. I think you'll need it. Hahaha!

It's a healing item. We already have one equipped. I guess she's worried about us.



Shit.



Fuck. We're outnumbered...and our combined HP isn't even comparable to all three of them!

Time to bust out my Tacticular Enhancers...

 

focus your initial attacks on ant 06, use medium concentration for harm if you have to.
Your teammate's weapon (At least the female version) fires 3 rounds, use the "aimed" style as it will give you a 24% chance of landing a critical as well as give you a higher chance to hit, which more than balances things out.
The other two bots won't hurt much

 

Just press random buttons. Something should happen.

 

Don't worry bros, she is just being tsundere! She is romanceable right? And the robot??

 

Oh my fucking god that android is going to haunt my nightmares.

But that Phil guy looks cool. Try to romance him.

 

Special Training


(Calm down. I just gotta take out the big guy first. The rest will be a cakewalk..)

Joshua Nelson tries to use the Psionic Power Harm on RoboAnt-06 but misses!

Fuck!
You goddamn idiot! This is how it's done!

Philipp executes a Normal Attack!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 5 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 8 damage!
RoboAnt-06 HP: 27/40

Shit, it's repairing unit 06!

Look out, newbie!

Damn! That hurt like hell!

Koenig, look out!

RoboAnt-02A shoots Phillip Koenig and hits for 4 damage!
Phillip Koenig HP: 24/28

Hmph. Just a scratch!
It's our turn to hit them back! Activating Psionic Amplifier! Attacking RoboAnt-02!

Joshua Nelson shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 3 damage! (Armor Absorbed 4 points of psionic damage)
Joshua Nelson shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 5 damage! (Armor Absorbed 4 points of psionic damage)

You shouldn't use your weapons against these droids, fool!
Shit! Sorry, I lost my cool! (Keep it together, Josh...or we'll end up in the infirmary. Remember the training!)




That's right! I've got to divert its attention away from me! If this keeps up, I'll be kissing the floor. Hey, Phil! Use Burst attack!


Fuuuuuuuu-

Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 8 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 7 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 10 damage!
RoboAnt-02A HP 02/35

-uuuckkkk!
Damn it! Just a little more!

RoboAnt-02A shoots Phillip Koenig and hits for 1 damage!
RoboAnt-06 shoots Phillip Koenig and hits for 3 damage!
Philipp Koenig HP 23/28

It's working!
The hell it is? They're shooting at me!
That's the plan, Skyway!

RoboAnt-02C repairs RoboAnt-02A by 9.
RoboAnt-02A HP: 11/35

I'll finish this!
Don't miss this time!


Joshua Nelson harms RoboAnt-02A by 15 HP using Harm.
RoboAnt-02A is destroyed.

Yeah! One down! Take down the other 02 Unit, Phil!
Fucking juvies...

Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 8 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 9 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 8 damage!
RoboAnt-02C HP: 10/35

How do you like that?!

RoboAnt-06 uses special move Phasor Blast and hits Joshua Nelson by 11 hitpoints!

Fuck! I'm bleeding!

RoboAnt-02C shoots Philipp Koenig and hits for 2 damage!

Patch your butthole and get back in the fight!
I know that, already!


Joshua Nelson heals himself by 7 hitpoints using First Aid Kit.
Joshua Nelson HP: 11/25

MUCH better. Keep shooting, Phil!

Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 11 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 11 damage!
RoboAnt-02C destroyed.

Popped a mole. Try to keep up, newb.

RoboAnt-06 shoots Phillip Koenig and hits for 5 damage!
RoboAnt-06 shoots Phillip Koenig and hits for 3 damage!
Philipp Koenig HP: 7/28

Fuck. Shit.
I've got you!

Joshua Nelson heals Philipp Koenig by 7 HP using First Aid Kit.
Phillip Koenig HP: 14/28

Get him, Phil!

Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 9 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 6 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 5 damage!
RoboAnt-06 HP: 19/40

RoboAnt-06 shoots Philipp Koenig and hits for 4 damage!
RoboAnt-06 shoots Philipp Koenig and hits for 3 damage!
Philipp Koenig HP: 7/28

Hang on!


Joshua Nelson heals Philipp Koenig by 15 HP using Heal.

Shit, that did the trick. Thanks, kid. Now watch the pros finish this off.

Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 6 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 8 damage!
Philipp Koenig shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 5 damage!
RoboAnt-06 destroyed!


Awesome!


Just...training my soldiers! Why?
This is a model06 RoboAnt! And you sent these two recruits against it?!

(Hmmm...)


Anyway. I must admit you're exceeding my expectations, Nelson. And you too, recruit...?
Koenig! My name's Philipp Koenig!
Good job, recruits. Dismissed.
You heard Lt. Shatz? Enough talking, get back to the training!

Hey, I just saved your ass. Wtf?

As we move away to resume our training, Philipp turns to face me.

Why are you here, boy?
Wh-what do you mean?
Only the best recruits make it here.

I've yet to be impressed.

Well, fuck you too, Skyway.

Well. Just wait and you'll see. (This has to be the worst guy to be paired with in the whole colony! Just my luck...)
Yeah. Anyway, let's resume our training before Fox screams again.
All right. Let's go!

We continue our training, working hard. We're progressing well, but must split up to do some individual exercises. I lose track of time and Philipp.

 

So rather than take out the big robot that attacks twice at 4-8 damage a pop (you'll probably absorb 2 of each) which also has an ability to do 10-15 damage straight to any target...
You instead destroy the two drones that repair it once in a blue moon, but only attack once at 3-6 damage a pop, before you annihilate it.
Real smart bro.


With medium concentration, you would've done 30 damage to the big robot (higher concentration levels have no downsides, they do more damage on a linear scale and offer higher accuracy to boot), assuming it hit, it would've been a cinch for philip to finish it off in that round.



I just finished the demo, I quite enjoyed it.
I was going to buy the full game, but I'm a bit too poor to afford $25 right now

 

Don't be so harsh bro, remember RK's been playing full popamole for a while now. It can take a while to adjust back to even the most basic of turn-based combat systems after that. Like jetlag for games.

 

A little R&R

After I finish my training, I head back to my room, assuming Philipp did the same.


...Philipp? Are you here?

Hey! I was only asking if you were here. Unfortunately, you are.
...
Hahaha, I like that one.
Amazing, you laugh after all.
The fun is over now. FYI, there isn't much to do here at night... except the Black Hole Sun.
What is it? A pub?
No, the King generously built a top-notch brothel on this base as a reward for the best recruits of the army.
You wish.
Ha! You're smarter than you look. Thought you would have believed it.




On second thought, I'm not sure you are old enough to buy alcohol. Guess I'll leave you here.
What?! I'll show you, let's go!
Get changed first. You would look ridiculous with that uniform on.


What the fuck is up with the perma-headband? :facepalm:

Hmpf. Lots of muscles. A pity they're useless in a gun fight.
Haha! Are you jealous or what?
Jealous? Of what? Come on, follow me.


What?
Follow me. The music is too loud here.

Philipp motions for me to follow him. We find a quieter spot at the bar so we can talk. We both order something to eat and drink.

This cocktail is delicious!
Be careful, kid, you might get drunk on those things. Hehehe.
(He's trying to provoke me. Should I respond or stay quiet? I'm not sure getting into a drinking contest with this guy would be a good move...)

Well, I'm going. If you want to get drunk, be my guest, I won't stop you.
Good. You understand the first basic rule.
Which is?
Mind your own business.
Bah I'm going. See you.. no wait. I hope I don't see you later.
Have fun dreaming about Fox nude, boy.

.....!

...what?
Come on. That's what every guy dreams after their first day here.
Yeah, whatever. I certainly won't be dreaming about you!

As I am about to leave, someone grabs my arm, holding me in my seat.

Enjoying the night, Nelson?

I recognize the voice immediately.

Oh, Lt.-

Philipp. I see you've already brought Joshua to your favorite place in the colony.
Yeah. He has to learn how to be a man.

Tom looks at me. We stare awkwardly at each other for a moment while the club's music blares on. Then he takes a step back and directs my attention to the man beside him.

I don't believe you've met Bellamy yet.
Um, no sir...




My name's Bellamy Dupont. Pleased to meet you, Joshua. I've heard you've been training hard. Good. I like motivated people like you.
This is a great compliment coming from one of the veterans of this outpost. You should be proud, Nelson. I have to go now. Enjoy the night, but don't drink too much, understood?
Yes, sir!
I was talking to Philipp in particular.

I chuckle a little. This is too funny.

Hmpf.
What?
Nothing. I heard you. This is my last glass.

Philipp takes his hat off. I don't know how he was keeping it on in the first place with the pub's heat. Tom salutes us and leaves as we return the salute. Bellamy directs his attention towards me as he sits down at our table.

So you're Phillip's new roommate?

Unfortunately, yes.
Uh...? Well, I think you make a nice couple.

Relax, Philipp. I'm sure Bellamy meant in the battlefield!

I'm the one having to keep Joshua alive all the time! If it wasn't for me...

Bullshit. I healed you in that fight, asshole.

What?!
Haha. Don't be angry. Joshua, I saw you fighting, and I know he's just trying to keep your feet on the ground. You're doing pretty well for a new recruit.
Thanks!
Don't be fooled though. Training is easy compared to the outside.
The outside?
Yes, in the Wastelands. Philipp, would you be so kind as to bring me a drink?

With that excuse, Bellamy gets to talk with me one-on-one while Philipp is away getting a drink for him. Smart man.

You are aware of what is happening out there, right?
Eh, actually, no.
It seems that the alien lifeforms that once inhabited this planet, that we believed to be extinct, are starting to show up again.
What?!
Hey, don't tell anyone else. This is confidential! I am only saying this to you... because I trust you. Fox and Shatz told me lots of good things about you.
(Trust me? He just met me! Even if he's heard good things about me, he must be lying...) Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. But what does this really mean?
I don't know. But I know that they're sending out recon groups every day now. You know, after what we did to them... the aliens might seek out revenge.
Yes, I've read that settling this colony was a real bloodbath. Lots of fighting against the native alien races... and lots of killing.
Indeed. Not the best approach, if you ask me.

Philipp gets back with the drink for Bellamy, and he immediately changes the topic. We talk for a few more minutes, but it's just small talk. Then Bellamy glances at the pub's clock.

Now, please excuse me. I need to be going.

We stay a few more hours until I can't keep my eyes open anymore. Even if I didn't drink much, I'm still very tired from the long trip to this planet, the training, and having met so many new people. We walk back to the barracks, Philipp holding me up the whole way.


You know boy, you're too heavy. You need to start a diet.
I'm not... fat. It's my...muscles...
I don't care what it is! Next time, I go alone!


...I'm really a wreck...and...zzZZZZzzzzz.

 

Bellamy Dupont? Seriously?

 

The guy who made this is working on a sequel.

There don't seem to be any gay romances.

 

Huh. Pity. Well, let me rephrase then. *ahem*

That Phil guy looks cool. Try to bromance him.

 

Make of that what you will.
There are probably more...

EDIT: There's also an achievement for completing at least one homosexual subplot

 

Rumi Kai: Asian, initals R.K.

This isn't coincidence, it's destiny!

 

You bettter romance the fuck out of the skyway...

 

Code Red, Baby!



Shhh! Don't make me laugh in front of her!
Laugh? It was a serious comment, boy. Don't you think she-
SILENCE, you two!
Ehem, sorry Sgt. Fox!
Today I've prepared another challenge for you. Let's see how you handle this one.
Wait a moment.
Oh, Mr. Dupont!
Add model 08 to the practice. I'm going to take a ride with these two recruits.

I wanna ride Rebecca

Not a bad idea. They might learn a thing or two. Done, enjoy the fun!

Bellamy makes his way over to me and says:

I got news that I'm going to be sent out to the wasteland soon. If you don't mind, I want to do some target practice with you.
Of course! It would be our pleasure!


Force Shield means it's a tank. I think we can safely ignore it?



Same deal. We'll hit the weakest ones first.

Joshua harms RoboAnt-02A by 15 HP using Harm!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-02A for 10 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-02A for 8 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-02A for 11 damage!
RoboAnt02A destroyed!

We've got this.
Not bad.

Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-02D for 12 damage!
Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-02D for 11 damage!
Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-02D for 10 damage!
Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-02D for 10 damage!
RoboAnt02D destroyed!

Wow, he just took out one by himself!

Unit 08 has shields up! Leave it last! Our next target is Unit 06!

RoboAnt-06 uses Phasor Blast on Joshua, hitting him for 12 damage!
Joshua's HP: 13/25

Better heal up!

Joshua uses Psionic Heal on himself for 12 HP.

Stand back, kiddo. Let the real men finish this.

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 10 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 6 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 10 damage!
RoboAnt-06 HP: 14/40

I'll get that for you, Private.

Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-06 but misses!

Damn! Still got a few more...

Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 10 damage!
Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 10 damage!
RoboAnt-06 is destroyed!

That was close.

RoboAnt-08 shoots Skyway and hits for 5 damage!
Skyway's HP: 23/28

Let's finish this!

Joshua shoots RoboAnt-08 and scores a CRITICAL HIT for 10 damage!

Ha! Take THAT! And...

Joshua shoots RoboAnt-08 but misses!

...that?
That was almost SAD.

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 4 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 1 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 3 damage!
RoboAnt-08 HP: 29/50

Shield's damn thick!
I'll finish this.

Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 3 damage!
Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-08 and scores a CRITICAL HIT for 18 damage!
Bellamy shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 5 damage!
RoboAnt-08 HP: 06/50

Nearly there...we should target this guy first next time! They're kinda annoying.

RoboAnt-08 shoots Skyway and hits for 3 damage!
Skyway's HP: 20/28

I'll finish this!

Joshua shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 3 damage!
Joshua shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 3 damage!
RoboAnt-08 is destroyed!



Thanks, Bellamy.
Keep up the good work. Well, I have to go now. Keep up your training. See you around.
All right. Now, for the next training, I-
Fox! Drop everything you're doing and follow me! Now!
But...
It's code red! No time!
Wh-what..! I'm coming! Eh...where is that stupid android?
I am here, Sgt. Fox.
Good, take care of the rest of the training! I have to go.
(Hmm... Fox and Shatz seemed in a hurry. Doesn't look like a good thing. I wonder what's happening?)

Updated my journal.


It will be my pleasure to train you.
Wait, what's happening? What is code red?
I cannot disclose any security information to you. I'm sorry. Your rank is too low.
What? Come on!
I'm sorry. Please let me know when you're ready to being your training.

 

Graduation Ceremony

Ok, let's start.
As you are aware, very few are selected from the large initial group. The best of the best. Normally, those selections would last a few weeks, if not months. However, I must warn you: I was instructed to speed things up. Prepare yourself, this will be a long test.
Good! Bring'em on!
You will face five different challenges. You must win three to be selected. The five challenges can be done in any order you wish. You are granted a few more healing kits and a bit of acqua pura. Use them wisely.
Acqua Pura? What is this vial?
Pfft. You're clearly a newbie.
Care to enlighten me?
It's a drink. You drink it, and it restores your Psionic Points instantly. It's non-alcoholic, unfortunately.
Whenever you're ready, tell me which challenge you wish to face.


The four Unit-02 shouldn't be too much of a trouble.



Very, very straightforward. Setting Skyway on Burst Attack mode would deal enough damage to wipe one unit per round. I won't bother covering this combat.



Skyway hits level 2.



I decide to up his tagged Sniper Weapons. Only 4 skill points, so yeah. Go for combat since we're doing mostly combat now. The last point unlocks another bonus threshold to +3 damage per attack. Snipers are high damage, slow firing weapon, so the damage bonus is not very noticeable.

The second fight is tougher: Three 06s - if they can unleash their three Phasor Blast at once, things could get dangerous.



Joshua harms RoboAnt-06A for 30 HP using Psionic Harm!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06A for 6 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06A for 11 damage!
RoboAnt-06A is destroyed!

RoboAnt-06B uses Phasor Blast and hits Joshua for 12 damage!
RoboAnt-06C uses Phasor Blast and hits Joshua for 10 damage!
Joshua HP: 03/25

Damn! Cover me, Phil! I need time to recover!

Joshua defends, regaining 4 HP and 4 PP.
Joshua HP: 07/25
Joshua PP: 10/25

Suit yourself!

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06B and hits for 6 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06B and hits for 7 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06B and hits for 7 damage!
RoboAnt-06B HP: 20/40

RoboAnt-06B shoots Skyway and hits for 6 damage!
RoboAnt-06B shoots Skyway and hits for 2 damage!
RoboAnt-06C shoots Skyway and hits for 4 damage!
RoboAnt-06C shoots Skyway and hits for 5 damage!
Skyway HP: 19/36

Ow. Your pussy stopped bleeding yet?
Fuck off, Phil! Give me more time!

Joshua defends and regains 4 HP and 4 PP.
Joshua HP 11/25
Joshua PP 15/25

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06B and hits for 8 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06B and hits for 8 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06B and hits for 7 damage!
RoboAnt-06B is destroyed!

Letting me have all the kills, huh?

RoboAnt-06C uses Phasor Blast and hits Joshua for 12 damage!
Hnghhh...

Joshua is knocked out!

What the fu-? Idiot! Do I have to do everything myself?!

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06C and hits for 8 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06C and hits for 11 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06C and hits for 6 damage!
RoboAnt-06C HP: 16/40

RoboAnt shoots Skyway and hits for 6 damage!
RoboAnt shoots Skyway and hits for 5 damage!
Skyway HP: 08/36

Now or never...

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06C and hits for 7 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06C and hits for 6 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06C and hits for 9 damage!
RoboAnt-06C is destroyed!

Get up, you next-gen fag!
Whoa, we won?
Nope. I won. You're lucky they counted it as a team success.


Damn, I didn't get any EXP.

You wanna back out now, newbie?
Fuck off, Phil. I was just unlucky. Let's go!


Joshua harms RoboAnt-06 by 30 HP using Psionic Harm!
RoboAnt-06 HP: 10/40

All out attack on Unit 06!

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 7 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-06 and hits for 7 damage!
RoboAnt-06 is destroyed!

RoboAnt-02 shoots Skyway and hits for 3 damage!
RoboAnt-08 activates Force Shield!
Skyway HP: 33/36

Now take out the 02!

Joshua shoots RoboAnt-02 and hits for 6 damage!
Joshua shoots RoboAnt-02 and hits for 4 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-02 and hits for 13 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-02 and hits for 11 damage!
RoboAnt-02 is destroyed!

Last one!

RoboAnt-08 shoots Skyway and hits for 5 damage!
Skyway HP: 28/36

Need some time to recover my Psionic Powers! Cover me!

Joshua defends and regains 4 PP.
Joshua PP: 11/25

Phil do this, Phil do that. Who the heck you think you are?

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 2 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 6 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 6 damage!
RoboAnt-08 HP: 36/50

RoboAnt-08 shoots Skyway and hits for 4 damage!
Skyway HP: 24/36

My turn!

Joshua tries Psionic Harm but misses!

Oops!
Failure is what defines you, faggot.

Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 3 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 3 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 2 damage!
RoboAnt-08 HP: 28/50

RoboAnt-08 shoots Skyway and hits for 5 damage!
Skyway HP: 19/36

Sorry, bro. Let's finish this!

Joshua shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 4 damage!
Joshua shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 1 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 5 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 10 damage!
Skyway shoots RoboAnt-08 and hits for 10 damage!
RoboAnt-08 is destroyed!

Hmph. Pop-a-moles.

Yeah! That was easy!
Congratulations. You passed the test!
Great! But...what does it mean exactly? Are we... promoted?
Yes, you can now be-


Fox comes toward us in a hurry. It looks like she has two new recruits with her. They look familiar. I think I've seen them before in the training room.

Good. I see you both passed the test. Follow me, quick!

Where are we going?
Just stay quiet and follow me. You'll see when we get there.
Um, all right.

I should stfu for now. Don't wanna piss off Fox. I follow Fox, not knowing where I'm going. After a few minutes, we reach the residential area of the colony. It's the first time I've come here.

By the way, pleased to meet you. My name's Jacob Miles.

Pleased to meet you, Jacob. And who is that nice girl at your side?
My name's Michelle Lafleur! I'm honored to meet you, Nelson!


My, my...

Honored?
Don't you know? He's the nephew of the famous Admiral John Nelson!
Wow! Really?


Wait, no. I can't be sure. I shouldn't be too big-headed yet...let's not make a big deal over last names.

I don't know for sure...
Oh.. I thought...
Nelson is a common surname.
Yes, true.
(This girl... I like her smile. She's really cute.)
Relax boy. I'm sure Michelle smiles like that with everyone.

Fucking Skyway!



Yeah, fuck off Skyway!

We arrive in front of a decorated door. Several guards are stationed here. This must be a maximum security zone.

Here. We have arrived. Now, before we enter, give your weapons to the guards.
Our weapons? Why should we do that? Can you tell us what's going on?
Follow me inside and you'll hear everything.


EMPRAH!

Your majesty. Here are the best recruits we have available at the moment.

Did she say 'the best'? This is only my second day here!

Hmm...are you sure?
Th-the King! The King in person!
Withhold your excitement, Lafleur!
Don't worry, it is all right. I suppose you are all wondering why I have summoned you here.

I hope it's for some celebration party culminating in orgy.

To be honest your majesty we didn't even know that you were here.
I assume you all know about the recent terrorist threats towards my family. Because of that, I must keep my movements secret. Only my most trusted collaborators know of my location. But still, something has happened.

The King nods to Rebecca who continues.

We do not know how exactly this could have happened, and we're investigating thoroughly, but... The King's only son, heir to the throne, Cliff, has disappeared.
What? He was kidnapped?!
We don't know yet exactly what happened. We're investigating it as we speak.
I wanted to meet you all personally. Needless to say. I have high hopes for you. My wife Sophia is very worried. Now go. Fox will instruct you on what to do. You must absolutely find my son! Dismissed!


This is too weird. What happened to the existing Stronghold Royal Guards? Why are they assigning graduating recruits for this important task?

We exit the Royal Chambers and gather around Fox to discuss the rescue plan.

You heard the King. He is really worried. We must act quickly!

Whoa, slow down...


Don't you have security cameras?
Yes, the robots are already scanning the recordings. Nothing useful so far.
Robots?
Yes, down in the science lab.
Where's the Queen?
I don't know, but I suppose she is somewhere in the royal chambers.
Do you think we could talk to her?
What? Why?

C'mon Jaheira, you're not this stupid. You're a druid. Act like one.

To ask her some questions. She might be able to help us in the investigation.
I doubt she wants to speak with anyone right now. Let's concentrate our efforts elsewhere.
Where's Tom?
You mean, Lt. Shatz?
Er, yes, sorry.
He is outside with Dupon and a new recruit. They're scouting the area surrounding the colony. I need to get back to my duties. With Tom away, I'm in charge here. Nelson. You lead the team.
What? But he's a newbie.

But he isn't a gigantic douche, Skyway.

SILENCE. He is the best recruit so far. Nelson, you'll lead Lafleur, Miles and Koenig. You three will follow Nelson's orders, understood?
Yes, ma'am!
One more thing: do not tell anyone about what is happening. We don't want rumors being spread about the missing prince. Only the highest ranks of the army and a select few know about this. I'll be in the Training Facility. If you find anything, come to me immediately! I suggest you start your investigation in the science lab.
Yes ma'am!

 

Let's discuss strategy!

Firstly, in this fight it is still in your best interests to take out Ant-06 first.
If you can injure Ant-08 as well, even better, since both ants 02 will spent their turns repairing ant 08 and ant-08 will use his ability to double his defensive properties for a few turns, which means none of them will have attacked you.

Phill should've still been able to do 8-9 damage a pop to ant-08 even with the force field (0 * 2 is still 0 for explosive resistance). Your basic psionic attack would've been ineffective though as he'd pretty much negate all of it.
Harm still would've done a full 15 damage though, if it hit.




And you pick the one fight I avoided like the plague
If it's any consolation, I would've approached this fight the exact same way.

 

This is one of those games you start for the lulz but actually turns out pretty decent. Like Sengoku Rance.

 

This is eerily true. Too true.
The similarity of storyline between two universe is disturbing.
Lines are blurring.
Black and white graying.

 

My Squad, My Men, My Command



The Royal Prince is kidnapped, Force Commander Joshua is chosen as lead of the investigation. Could there be treachery afoot in the strongest human colony?



Michelle's a soldier. She specialises in light pistols, repairs and lockpicks. She could be charming if she wants to. But we don't really need that right now.



Jacob is a quiet sort. A Psionic like me, he can both heal and hurt. He's also quite well-versed in Science and Medicine.



And I also have Phil with me.

Quiet. Let me think about what to do...

We should head straight to the Science Lab. Analyze the security footage.

This should be the science lab. Wow, it's huge... but I don't see anyone around?
I don't like it. Shouldn't there be android scientists in here?
Look there! Wh-what's that? Some robots are fighting between themselves in the back!

Lucille runs towards us in panic.


What?! Robots are destroying.. the place where they're built? Is this some sort of rebellion?
I.. I don't know.

Is this...the geth?
What did you say?
No..It's nothing.
Look, that looks like a new kind of robot! I've never seen it before!
Please, do something! We have our defensive androids trying to slow them down, but they're too powerful!
I agree, we must stop them before they destroy the whole place!
Let's go!





Acid rain sounds dangerous. But we've got numbers on our side.



Joshua harms RoboAnt-02A for 15 damage!
Michelle shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 7 damage!

Michelle shoots RoboAnt-02A and misses!
Michelle shoots RoboAnt-02A and hits for 7 damage!

Jacob harms RoboAnt-02A for 15 damage!
RoboAnt-02A is destroyed!

Phil, destroy the other Unit 02!

Philipp shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 8 damage!

Philipp shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 8 damage!
Philipp shoots RoboAnt-02C and hits for 9 damage!

RoboAnt-02C HP: 10/35

Corrosive Battle Bot uses Acid Rain!
Joshua takes 10 damage!
Michelle takes 12 damage!
Jacob takes 9 damage!
Philipp evades!

RoboAnt-02C shoots Philipp for 2 damage!

Joshua HP: 15/25
Michelle HP: 18/30
Jacob HP: 23/32
Philipp HP: 34/36

Damn that hurt! Is everyone alright?
Not too bad.
Same here. I can take another one like that.
Alright, let's go!

Round 2

Joshua harms RoboAnt-02C for 15 damage!
RoboAnt-02C is destroyed!

Down to last one! Let's finish the big guy!

Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and misses!
Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Jacob shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 0 damage!
Jacob shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 0 damage!
Jacob shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 1 damage!

Looks like Psionic weapons aren't effective. But keep your Psionic powers on hold...we might need some healing later!
Okay, Josh!

Philipp shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Philipp shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Corrosive Battle Bot HP: 50/75

Corrosive Battle Bot uses Acid Rain!

Joshua takes 12 damage!
Michelle takes 14 damage!
Jacob evades!
Philipp evades!
Joshua HP: 03/25
Michelle HP: 04/30

Damn, this is too easy.
Asshole. You okay, Michelle?
Badly hurt...you don't look too good yourself.

Round 3

Using first aid kit!

Joshua uses First Aid Kit and regain 7 HP.
Joshua HP: 10/25

Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and misses!
Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and misses!

Aww, dammit!
Jacob. Heal her!
On it.

Jacob heals Michelle for 19 HP.
Michelle HP: 23/30

Hey, Phil, howabout some heals here, bro?
I'd rather shoot the bot. But whatever.

Philipp heals Joshua for 8 HP.
Joshua HP: 18/25

Corrosive Battle Bot shoots Philipp and hits for 4 damage!
Philipp HP: 30/36

Round 4

I don't have enough Psionic Powers to unleash anything...I'll shoot him on the mean time.

Joshua shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 1 damage!
Joshua shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 1 damage!

I better take my time and aim my shots better...

Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Michelle shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 6 damage!
Jacob harms Corrosive Battle Bot for 15 damage!
Philipp shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 8 damage!
Philipp shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 10 damage!
Philipp shoots Corrosive Battle Bot and hits for 5 damage!
Corrosive Battle Bot is destroyed!

All hail the Skyway, baby!

Good job, soldiers!
Tsk. Don't get a big head and call me soldier.

We get close to the scientific equipment. It looks badly damaged.

Let's hope we can still recover some information.
All we could discover is that Prince Cliff was taken outside the colony, to the wastelands.
To the wastelands?!
Yes. One of the few recordings we were able to salvage showed him entering a hovercraft which disappears over the horizon.
Who kidnapped him?
It is a member of the Marada alien race. But... it doesn't really look like he was kidnapped.
Say what? That's really weird!


The xenos did not kidnap the Emprah's Son after all. Then what exactly happened? And what triggered the robot rebellion? Stay tuned to the next update of Mass Effect Gaiden: Planet Stronghold!

 

RK47-kun, just in case you didn't notice...
During combat there are tooltips at the bottom of the screen, they contain information such as how much damage you'll do with each successful strike, your accuracy and how many times you'll attack, as well as what the various stances/options do.
On the other hand if you did notice, I can't help but wonder if you were trying to make the combat more "emotionally engaging" by using plain psionic attacks, defending to recover some HP and PP would've honestly been a better strategic choice.


Anyways, keep up the good fight, bro

EDIT: just to clarify, the values in the tooltip area is adjusted for enemy resistance and ability.

 

Skyway is clearly the best companion NPC, look at the post-battle stats.

I guess playing ARMA so much really paid off.

 

Crisis in Stronghold

We should report to Sgt. Fox immediately.
Yeah, but before that...let's head back to the barracks and grab some gear and rest up.




Resting takes a day. This could be an issue if a quest has a specified time limit. Since we have nothing of that sort, we should just top up our HP & PP. You do not regenerate all of those after combat anymore. Tutorial is officially over the moment we graduated.



Gears are free. We're part of the military outfit, it makes no sense for us to pay for upgrades. There are spare armors, weapons and healing items replenished every time the plot is advanced forward. So there is a real danger of the squad running out of consumables.



I gave Jacob a Laser Rifle, just because.



Michelle gets a better armor.



I get an improved armor too. While Phil grabs a new rifle called the 'Punisher'

Alright. Let's go meet Rebecca in the training room!

Sgt. Fox, it appears that Prince Cliff left of his own free will.
What!? This is really a bad joke, Nelson!
It's the truth. You can watch the security video yourself if you don't believe me. You'll see the Prince leaving peacefully on a hovercraft together with some aliens.
Aliens? Hmmm... all right, I'll take a look later. Did you discover anything else?
No, nothing besides this.
Lt. Shatz is outside. You should go meet him and inform him of your discovery. I don't understand why he's taking so long, I hope nothing happened. Meanwhile, continue your search. There might be more clues around.
Understood. And... By the way... there were rogue robots rampaging in the science lab, care to explain why?
Wh-what!?
We saved the supercomputers just in time from being completely destroyed!
Uh, I'm... I'm sure it was just a temporary problem! Android Lucille will have to explain what's going on! You can go, Nelson.
(Hmm. She's clearly hiding something!)

(I shouldn't fight fire with fire. Not with Fox, anyway!)
Wait...what, ehm is going on?
...? Are you dumb Nelson? We're trying to discover why Prince-
I know, I know. I mean... about the robots. They've been attacking me since I landed here, this wasn't an isolated episode at all!
..Uh? No, it's not like that at all! It must be your imagination!
I don't believe you.
Hmm...all right, come here. I'll talk to you in private about this.
Why? I have no secrets in my team. They're fighting alongside me and need to know everything.

Holy crap. Josh got manlier all the sudden. This is super Paragon time.

All right. I see you've already become a true leader. Back to your question... yes, you're correct that something is going on. There's a robot rebellion.
(I knew it.)
A robot rebellion?!
Good, more targets to practice on.

Skyway. Skyway never changes.

I sensed something wasn't right.
But... why?
We don't know the exact reason. Even the science robots themselves don't know why. But it seems like some sort of a signal coming from a remote zone of the planet is causing this. And it's getting more powerful every day.

Quest completed: "A Strange Welcome"


(Is everything connected? The Prince's 'kidnapping' and this robot rebellion?)

I feel stronger.
We must stop this!
It's getting pretty bad. Communications are disrupted, and we cannot use spaceships to leave the planet.
Y-you mean that we're trapped here?
Yes. But we have high hopes for you and your team. I believe you'll be able to find the source of the signal and stop it, by any means.

New Quest Added: "Find the Source"


(This is loco! But calm down, this is a great opportunity to show them what I can do! And make mom and dad proud.)
Sgt, it would be easier with a great sniper like you on my side...
*Smiles* Thank you. I must finish the training. Go look for Shatz and once you find him, inform him of what is happening and meet me at the King's Chamber. And keep your eyes peeled for trouble!
Yes, ma'am!

That level up was long time coming - let's spend some skill points!



Spent 2 points on Psionics to bump it to 55.
And another 2 on Charisma.



Michelle is being re-specced as Energy Weapon user.



Jacob goes for Psionic 55 and Shock 31.

All right, guys! Let's find Tom, we should be able to locate him near the landing pad...

Isn't that... Bellamy?
Where?
Yes, it's him! He's with Tom and another recruit. But... they're fighting some sort of rock-creature!
Wow I've never seen anything like that in my life!

Tom looks in our direction. He probably spotted us.

Think we should give them a hand?
You're the boss now, Joshua! What do you want to do?

(The mission's important, but I can't leave them in danger!)
They seem to be handling themselves well, but I'll take a space suit and go there to help. Meanwhile you continue searching here, understood?
Try not to get hurt, Joshua.
Don't worry, he's in good company.
Join Date: Yesterday. Heh.
Fuck off, Phil.
See you later then!

I wasted no time and dashed closer to Tom's party. They've not begun the fight. Clouds of dust formed as I made a dramatic entry, rolling to the party's side, weapon drawn.

Nelson! What are you doing here?
I'm here to-

Whoa.
I...I thought I would give you a hand!
Hmm... All right. I believe you haven't met recruit Kai yet?
It's an honor to fight alongside you, Nelson.

Thank you!
(That look in her eyes...is she...blind?)

HISAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I know what you're thinking. Yes, I'm blind, but I'm very gifted in Psionics. I assure you I'm a valid team member.
Oh, I didn't mean to-
Don't be fooled by her appearance, Nelson. Despite being a soldier, Rumi is gifted in many non combat abilities. She's really unique, you'll see.
You're too kind, Bellamy.
We'll talk later! Now, get ready for an assault on that monster!

Time to man up...