During a Q&A session with Atsushi Inaba, the lead designer of Steel Battalion – the mech game with the 40-button controller - confirmed that he is currently working on Steel Battalion Online, due to take advantage of the Xbox Live! service and justify the high price of the original game and controller. <br /> <br /> Steel Battalion is being released in the US for $199.99, which could alienate the title to only the most hard-core of mech games. The announcement of an online sequel and that other developers may be looking to use the controller provides some assurance to the initial outlay. We played Steel Battalion extensively at X’02 and couldn’t come away, mech fans will absolutely love it, whilst the whole experience should appeal to even those with just an interest. <br /> <br /> The online sequel will make full use of the headset communicator and should provide the absolute ultimate mech experience… <br /> <br /> Steel Battalion has been confirmed for a European release, although no specific details were announced; expect a retail price of around 200 euros (~£130) for the game and controller. <br />