Front Mission: Gun Hazard vs Heavy Nova
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.

Front Mission: Gun Hazard is a side-scrolling action platformer set in the acclaimed Front Mission science fiction universe. Players pilot customizable mechs known as Wanzers through intense military missions, upgrading weaponry and equipment to overcome increasingly difficult obstacles and enemy forces. Developed by Omiya Soft and Solid and published by Square, the game blends mech combat mechanics with traditional platforming action. Released in 1996 for the Super Famicom, it offers a distinct narrative-driven campaign focusing on political intrigue and mech warfare without multiplayer elements.
Heavy Nova is a 1991 action title where players control a massive mech battling other mechs of varying sizes. The game features simple controls—A for punches, B for kicks, and a rocket button for sustained flight—making combat easy to pick up yet challenging to master. Originally released for the Sharp X68000, it was later ported to the Sega Mega‑CD and Mega Drive, bringing its arena‑style fighting to console audiences. The game blends platforming elements with fighting mechanics in a futuristic setting, offering both single‑player and multiplayer modes. Its retro graphics and arcade‑style gameplay capture the early 90s spirit of mech combat.
- Engaging mech customization options
- Smooth side-scrolling action gameplay
- Rich science fiction storyline
- Memorable boss encounters
- Simple, intuitive controls
- Fast‑paced, action‑filled combat
- Supports two‑player local multiplayer
- Distinctive retro aesthetic
- Limited to single-player mode
- Graphics and audio are dated by modern standards
- Originally released only in Japanese
- Limited to single‑screen arenas
- No modern save or checkpoint system
- Graphics may feel dated to new players
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Front Mission: Gun Hazard
View all →
Transforming ship shooter that battles alien hordes on the Mega Drive
Alternatives to Heavy Nova
View all →
Pilot powerful Wanzer mechs in this classic side-scrolling action shooter.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataFront Mission: Gun Hazard offers deeper mech customization and a story-driven single‑player experience, while Heavy Nova gives fast, simple combat with local two‑player battles.
Key differences
- •Front Mission features extensive mech customization and a narrative; Heavy Nova focuses on simple controls and arena fighting.
- •Multiplayer: Front Mission is single‑player only; Heavy Nova supports local two‑player battles.
- •Release era: Front Mission released 1996; Heavy Nova released 1991, indicating older design conventions.
- •Content depth: Front Mission includes upgrades, currency collection, and boss encounters; Heavy Nova offers limited single‑screen arenas.
- •Control complexity: Front Mission uses shooting mechanics; Heavy Nova uses three‑button punch/kick/rocket scheme.
Pricing & value
Both are paid one‑time purchases; no price details provided to differentiate.
Gameplay & fun factor
Front Mission adds mech customization, resource upgrades, and boss fights, giving more varied play than Heavy Nova's simple arena combat.
Platform availability
No platform information is provided for either title.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Heavy Nova supports local two‑player battles; Front Mission is single‑player only.
Content & replayability
Front Mission offers a story campaign, upgrades, and diverse stages; Heavy Nova has limited single‑screen arenas and no save system.
Difficulty & accessibility
Heavy Nova uses three intuitive buttons, making it easier for newcomers; Front Mission’s customization adds complexity.
Graphics & performance
Both are described as having dated retro graphics; no performance data to separate them.
Choose Front Mission: Gun Hazard if…
Solo players who want customization, story depth, and boss challenges.
Choose Heavy Nova if…
Players who want quick, easy controls and local two‑player competition.
Common questions
Which game supports multiplayer?
Heavy Nova supports single‑player and local two‑player battles; Front Mission: Gun Hazard is single‑player only.
Do either of the games offer save or checkpoint systems?
Heavy Nova has no modern save or checkpoint system; Front Mission’s save features are not specified.
Which title provides more customization and progression?
Front Mission: Gun Hazard includes mech parts upgrades, currency collection, and a story campaign, while Heavy Nova lacks such systems.



