Once the test units were down, a bunch of actual enemies busted onto the scene, and we were faced with a quandary: return to base as ordered, so that the GM's test data could be recorded? Or charge our damaged mech straight at the bad guys and see what it could really do? Apparently, you'll be faced with decisions like this pretty often in the final game; doing what you're supposed to will mean more points, which in turn can be used to upgrade your ever-growing stable of mechs (15 models are available for each side). Going against orders, however, is a lot more fun.
Later on, though, you'll be able to issue them yourself. As you rise in rank, you'll be able to assign other pilots and mechs to help you through each mission; ordering them around is then done by using the d-pad to work through command menus. Apparently, while your character is a no-name shlub, you'll be able to add characters from the Gundam anime to your stable of pilots. However, since no human characters are shown in the game, you won't actually see them in the flesh.
