Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, DOS
- Publishers: Futura, U.S. Gold
ADS: Advanced Destroyer Simulator (1990)
Overview
ADS: Advanced Destroyer Simulator is a naval combat simulation game released in 1990 for the Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS. It was the first naval simulation to use real-time filled 3D graphics, and its style and mechanics are reminiscent of Epyx’s Destroyer (1986).
Players take control of the H.M.S. Onslaught, a British destroyer of the O-class fitted with three cannon turrets, four torpedo tubes on port and starboard respectively, and a sonar to detect and track submarines. In ADS, the Onslaught is not part of a flotilla, and players must rely on their own skills and wits to survive.
Gameplay
ADS is played from a first-person perspective, with the player looking out from the bridge of the Onslaught. The game world is rendered in real-time 3D, and players can freely rotate the camera to get a better view of the battlefield.
The player’s primary objective in ADS is to sink enemy ships and submarines. This can be done using the Onslaught’s cannons or torpedoes. Cannons are more effective against surface targets, while torpedoes are more effective against submarines.
Players must also be aware of the Onslaught’s own vulnerabilities. The ship can be damaged by enemy fire, and if it takes too much damage, it will sink. Players must also be mindful of the Onslaught’s fuel and ammunition levels, which must be replenished at sea.
In addition to the main campaign, ADS also features a number of bonus missions and challenges. These missions can be played solo or with a friend in cooperative mode.
Graphics and Sound
ADS was one of the first games to use real-time filled 3D graphics. This gave the game a more realistic and immersive look than previous naval simulations. The game’s graphics are still impressive today, and they helped to set a new standard for naval combat simulations.
The game’s sound is also top-notch. The sound effects are realistic and immersive, and the music is suitably epic.
Reception
ADS was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative graphics, realistic gameplay, and immersive sound. The game was also a hit with fans of naval combat simulations.
ADS has been cited as an influence on a number of later naval combat simulations, including Silent Hunter (1996) and Destroyer Command (2002).
Legacy
ADS is considered to be one of the most influential naval combat simulations ever made. It was the first game to use real-time filled 3D graphics, and its gameplay mechanics are still used in naval combat simulations today.
ADS is a classic game that is still enjoyed by fans of naval combat simulations today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique and immersive experience.
Tips for Playing ADS
- Use your sonar to detect and track enemy submarines.
- Use your cannons to attack surface targets.
- Use your torpedoes to attack submarines.
- Be aware of your own ship’s vulnerabilities.
- Replenish your fuel and ammunition levels at sea.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tactics.
- Have fun!
Conclusion
ADS: Advanced Destroyer Simulator is a classic naval combat simulation game that is still enjoyed by fans of the genre today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique and immersive experience. If you are a fan of naval combat simulations, then you owe it to yourself to check out ADS.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
