Psychic Force 2012 | March 4, 1999

 

Psychic Force 2012 (サイキックフォース2012, Saikikku Fōsu 2012) is an arcade fighting game developed by Taito, released in 1998 as a sequel to the 1996 title Psychic Force. After its arcade release, it was ported to the Dreamcast in Japan on March 4, 1999, followed by North America on November 9, 1999, and Europe in 2000, published by Acclaim Entertainment and Taito.

The game was also ported to PlayStation, released in Japan as Psychic Force 2 (サイキックフォース2, Saikikku Fōsu Tsū) on October 7, 1999, with a PAL release in 2001. This version had downgraded graphics but added several modes (e.g., "Psy-Expand" mode), an animated FMV intro, and included three returning characters (Sonia, Brad, and Genma) not present in Psychic Force 2012. In 2006, Psychic Force 2012 was re-released as part of a commemorative package for PlayStation 2, including the original Psychic Force and a special remix version called Psychic Force 2012 EX.

In 2012, the arcade game returned with a location test for the Taito NESiCAxLive version held from November 2 to November 6.

The combat system in Psychic Force 2012 retains the mechanics of previous titles but features redefined controls and balance adjustments, enhancing existing gameplay and introducing new elements. Each player has two bars on their side: the Life Gauge and Psycho Gauge. Most techniques require Psycho Gauge consumption, which can expand up to 200% as the Life Gauge decreases.

Characters can interact with the arena walls, and a special technique can knock opponents out of the arena during the final round. Light attacks fire small projectiles without using Psycho Gauge, while strong attacks fire larger projectiles costing 30% of the gauge. Characters also perform melee attacks at close range, with light attacks capable of comboing.

Returning tactics include Psycho Charge and Barrier Guard, while new tactics feature Retreat Barrier, Slide Dash, Hyper Charge, Psy-Impulse, and Barrier Break.

Psychic Force 2012 has an arcade mode where players face eight random opponents, while the story mode involves specific matches and cutscenes that progress character narratives. The storyline takes place two years after the Psychic Force incident, with two factions vying for world domination, involving characters like Keith Evans and Richard Wong as they pursue their goals amidst conflict.