Earth Defense Force 2017 Portable releases on Vita today

Earth Defense Force 2017 Portable will release on Vita today in North America, via the weekly PS Store update.

The game contains 60 missions, seven of which are new, and all can be played through five difficulty levels: easy, normal, hard, hardest, and inferno. The more difficult levels you play, the stronger weapons you’ll get, so by the time you reach inferno, you should be a well-equipped and seasoned pro.

The multiplayer allows for up to four players in co-op or versus mode.

If you purchase the game before February 4, you can download the following weapons for free:

• Electro Paralyzer - A top-secret superweapon developed by the EDF, whose flare shells halt the target’s actions. The technology behind it is shrouded in mystery. Some say it was developed by a military genius, or its secrets gleaned from a downed Ravager scout. Extend its effects by hitting the target repeatedly.
• Heat Blaster - A short-range laser gun, whose mighty firepower compensates for its limited range. It requires heavy equipment to recharge, making it impossible to reload on the battlefield. Pull the trigger to release all of its energy, or it can keep firing until you switch weapons.
• Limit Booster - A data transmitter that sends a special program to vehicles in the vicinity (helicopters, bikes, Vegaltas), shutting down their safety overrides and unlocking their maximum capabilities. Multiple uses won’t increase the upgrade ratio, but will make the effects last longer.
• Reverse Drone - An unmanned drone with a nanomachine capsule payload. It flies straight ahead to the nearest ally, and once it connects, it disperses the nanomachines to heal the target. Adjust the direction of fire to select your target.

The sequel, Earth Defense Force 2025, is slated for later this year.