Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Shooter, Simulator
- Platforms: Game Boy Advance
- Developers: Humansoft
- Publishers: Namco
Ace Combat Advance: A Detailed Review
Introduction
Ace Combat Advance is a flight simulator video game developed by Namco and published by Bandai for the Game Boy Advance. It was released in Japan on December 8, 2005, and in North America and Europe in February 2006. The game is part of the Ace Combat series, and is the first game in the series to be released on a handheld console.
Gameplay
Ace Combat Advance is a flight simulator game in which the player takes control of a fighter jet and completes a variety of missions. The game features both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, and the player must use a variety of weapons and maneuvers to defeat their enemies. The game also features a variety of different environments, including arctic, forest, and desert environments.
One of the unique features of Ace Combat Advance is its free-roaming environments. In most flight simulator games, the player is confined to a specific area, but in Ace Combat Advance, the player is free to fly anywhere within the mission area. This gives the player a greater sense of freedom and allows them to explore the environment and find new targets.
Another unique feature of Ace Combat Advance is its unlockable planes. As the player completes missions, they will earn experience points. These experience points can be used to unlock new planes, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player can also unlock new weapons and upgrades for their planes.
Story
Ace Combat Advance takes place in the same universe as the other Ace Combat games, but it has its own unique story. The player takes on the role of a rookie pilot who is assigned to an elite fighter squadron. The squadron is tasked with destroying the Air Strike Force, the military arm of an evil multinational corporation.
The player must complete a variety of missions in order to destroy the Air Strike Force. These missions include escorting bombers, attacking enemy bases, and defending friendly forces. As the player completes missions, they will learn more about the Air Strike Force and its plans.
Graphics and Sound
Ace Combat Advance features impressive graphics for a Game Boy Advance game. The game’s environments are detailed and realistic, and the planes are well-rendered. The game also features a variety of sound effects and music that help to create an immersive experience.
Reception
Ace Combat Advance received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, unlockable planes, and free-roaming environments. The game was also praised for its graphics and sound.
Ace Combat Advance was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game was followed by two sequels, Ace Combat Xi (2007) and Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War (2008).
Conclusion
Ace Combat Advance is a well-made flight simulator game that offers a variety of challenging missions, unlockable planes, and free-roaming environments. The game’s graphics and sound are also impressive for a Game Boy Advance game. Ace Combat Advance is a must-have for any fan of flight sims or action games.
Review Score
8.5/10