I too feel AC was dumb downed a bit, but you could also think of it as AC's are getting more advanced and with it, can do things the old AC's can do. I do like the increased speed, I haven't seen that kind of speed since Master of Arena. Shooting both back weapons is awesome, multi-directional turning is good too.

The part values are different, but they're not that hard to grasp. My only gripe is that the designs are so visually different, that part swapping from various companies, the AC doesn't look cohesive. Instead it looks like a franken-AC due to all the unique looks.

Just think of it like you're playing a super Nine-ball. His AC flew all over the damn place, shot missiles on the move without locking and lasers.