Amazing gameplay, short duration
When I saw this on the eShop, it was an instant purchase for me. Suda51 has always had a deranged and quirky, creative design to his games and Liberation Maiden is no different. The story is almost non-existent with a short cutscene letting you know Shoko has won the election to become the second President of Japan. Instantly, she dawns the Liberator - her mechanized suit - and she's off to battle the enemy forces that have overtaken Tokyo.
The game plays almost identically to Kid Icarus: Uprising in the sense that you use the Circle Pad to control character movement and the touch screen to aim your reticule. If you're used to Kid Icarus, it may take a level or two to get the hang on the controls. Once you figure it out, the game plays fluidly with no frame rate drops and eye popping visuals. The 3D doesn't get in the way at all either, it's very subtle and easy on the eyes.
Sound is another big factor in this title. The level music is fast paced and matches very well to the gameplay. When you reach the final Spike within a level, a vocalized JPop/JRock usually accompanies you as you work on the several stages of the boss. It's a great fit for the theme and atmosphere of the game.
The replayability of Liberation Maiden is fairly high. Once you finish a level in Story Mode, it is unlocked in a Stage Attack mode where you can improve your score and attempt to unlock Honors in the Gallery. Each Honor you unlock will give you back story into the war and how it came to be. It'd be nice if there was more of these plot devices within the actual Story Mode but at least they're there.
Overall, I would say this is a great game to pick up if you like fast paced action that is portable. Especially if you are a fan of Level-5 or Suda 51's work.