Zone of the Enders: 2173 Testament (Z.O.E: The Fist of Mars in Europe and North America) features a different concept of robot simulation. Instead of the traditional action/shooter-type gameplay in Zone of the Enders and The 2nd Runner, 2173 Testament involves more of a strategy/RPG-type gameplay, giving players a new experience.

The game features all new characters and Orbital Frame models not found in either of the PlayStation 2 games, and, as its name implies, takes place after the events of Zone of the Enders and before The 2nd Runner.

"Continuing with the story Zone of the Enders, Konami decided to bring out a chapter in the series that would be totally different from the previous ZOE titles. In order to bring out a more flashy storyline to go with the concept of the previous game, a few KCEJ members teamed up with Sunrise studios for the development of 2173 Testament.

As a result, Konami and Sunrise managed to give birth to a game that would have a totally new and fresh feeling compared to the first installment of Zone of the Enders. In order to get the most out of this new gameplay system, they would also add in a totally new environment, settings and cast..."

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