Summary
- Release Year: 1988
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter, Simulator
- Platforms: Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Beam Software
- Publishers: Acclaim Entertainment
Airwolf (1988)
Airwolf is a helicopter combat game released in 1988 for the Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS. It is based on the TV show of the same name, which aired from 1984 to 1986. The game was developed by Ocean Software and published by Elite Systems.
Gameplay
Airwolf is a 3D helicopter combat game in which the player controls the titular Airwolf helicopter. The game features a variety of missions, including destroying enemy helicopters, tanks, and ground targets. The player can also use Airwolf’s special weapons, such as its rockets and missiles.
The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn. The player uses the joystick to control Airwolf’s movement and the fire button to shoot. The player can also use the keyboard to control Airwolf’s speed and altitude.
Graphics and Sound
Airwolf’s graphics are impressive for the time. The game features detailed 3D models of Airwolf and the enemy helicopters and tanks. The game’s environments are also well-rendered, with a variety of different locations, including deserts, forests, and mountains.
The game’s sound is also well-done. The sound effects are realistic and the music is catchy and exciting.
Story
Airwolf’s story is based on the TV show of the same name. The player takes on the role of Stringfellow Hawke, a former Vietnam War helicopter pilot who is recruited by the CIA to fly Airwolf, a high-tech helicopter that is capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and supersonic flight.
Hawke’s mission is to use Airwolf to fight terrorism and other threats to national security. The game features a variety of missions, including rescuing hostages, destroying enemy bases, and escorting convoys.
Reception
Airwolf was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. It was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
Airwolf is considered to be one of the best helicopter combat games ever made. It is a challenging and rewarding game that still holds up today.
Legacy
Airwolf has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s success helped to popularize helicopter combat games, and it inspired a number of other games, including Apache (1986) and Gunship (1986).
Airwolf has also been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and PlayStation. The game has also been released on a number of compilation discs, including the Commodore 64 All Time Greats (1993) and the Amiga Classics Collection (1998).
Airwolf remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by many fans of helicopter combat games.
Conclusion
Airwolf is a classic helicopter combat game that still holds up today. The game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay are all top-notch, and the story is engaging and exciting. Airwolf is a must-play for fans of the TV show or helicopter combat games in general.
Review Score
7.5/10