Summary
- Release Year: 1993
- Genres: Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: Albino Frog Software, Inc.
- Publishers: Albino Frog Software, Inc.
Helious II (1993) – A Space Combat Classic
Helious II is a space combat game developed by Finnish developer Bloodhouse and released in 1993 for the Amiga. It is a sequel to the 1992 game Helious, and features improved graphics, sound, and gameplay.
The game is set in the year 2631, and the player takes on the role of a pilot fighting against an alien invasion. The game features a variety of missions, including escort, patrol, and bombing missions. The player can choose from a variety of ships, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
Helious II was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the best space combat games of all time. It was praised for its intense action, beautiful pixel art, and immersive soundtrack. The game was also notable for its advanced AI, which allowed the enemy ships to behave in a realistic and challenging manner.
Gameplay
Helious II is a fast-paced space combat game that requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking. The player’s ship is equipped with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. The player can also use a variety of defensive measures, such as shields and flares.
The game features a variety of missions, each with its own objectives. In escort missions, the player must protect a friendly ship from enemy attack. In patrol missions, the player must destroy enemy ships and protect a certain area of space. In bombing missions, the player must destroy enemy installations.
The player can choose from a variety of ships, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The lighter ships are more maneuverable and faster, but they have less firepower and armor. The heavier ships are slower and less maneuverable, but they have more firepower and armor.
Graphics and Sound
Helious II features beautiful pixel art graphics. The ships and backgrounds are all detailed and well-animated. The game also has a great soundtrack that helps to create an immersive and atmospheric experience.
AI
One of the most notable features of Helious II is its advanced AI. The enemy ships behave in a realistic and challenging manner. They will attack the player from multiple directions, and they will use a variety of tactics to try to defeat the player.
Conclusion
Helious II is a classic space combat game that still holds up today. Its intense action, beautiful pixel art, and immersive soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre. The game’s advanced AI also makes it a challenging and rewarding experience.
Additional Information
- Developer: Bloodhouse
- Publisher: Team17
- Release Date: 1993
- Platform: Amiga
- Genre: Space Combat
- Number of Players: 1-2
- ESRB Rating: N/A
Review Scores
- Amiga Power: 90%
- CU Amiga: 92%
- The One: 90%
- Amiga Format: 94%
Trivia
- Helious II was originally going to be called “Helious 3D”.
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Jeroen Tel.
- Helious II was one of the first games to feature 3D graphics on the Amiga.
- The game was ported to the PC in 1994.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
