Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Simulator
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: Lucasfilm Games
- Publishers: LucasArts
P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty: A Classic Flight Sim Expansion
Released in 1991, P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty is an expansion pack for the classic flight simulator Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe. The expansion allows players to fly the iconic P-38 Lightning, one of the most versatile and effective fighter aircraft of World War II.
Gameplay
P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty features a variety of gameplay modes, including:
- Campaign: The campaign mode consists of a series of missions that take place in the European and Pacific theaters of World War II. Players must complete each mission in order to progress through the campaign.
- Quick Combat: Quick Combat mode allows players to jump into a battle without having to play through the campaign. Players can choose from a variety of different maps and aircraft, and can customize the difficulty settings.
- Multiplayer: P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty supports multiplayer gameplay over a local area network (LAN) or the Internet. Players can compete against each other in a variety of different game modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and capture the flag.
Aircraft
The P-38 Lightning is the star of the show in P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty. The aircraft is incredibly versatile, and can be used for a variety of roles, including:
- Fighter: The P-38 is a formidable fighter aircraft, and is armed with four .50 caliber machine guns and a 20mm cannon. It is also very maneuverable, and can outmaneuver most other fighter aircraft.
- Bomber: The P-38 can also be used as a bomber, and can carry a variety of different bombs and rockets. It is not as effective as a dedicated bomber, but it can still be used to deliver a devastating payload.
- Reconnaissance: The P-38 can also be used for reconnaissance missions. It is equipped with a camera, and can take pictures of enemy positions and installations.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty had impressive graphics and sound. The aircraft models are detailed and realistic, and the environments are lush and immersive. The sound effects are also top-notch, and the game’s music is suitably epic.
Reception
P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty was well-received by critics and gamers alike. It was praised for its realistic graphics, immersive gameplay, and variety of aircraft. The game was also a commercial success, and helped to solidify Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe’s status as one of the best flight simulators of all time.
Legacy
P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty is still considered to be one of the best flight simulators ever made. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique and immersive experience. If you are a fan of flight sims, or if you are simply interested in World War II history, then you owe it to yourself to check out P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty.
Tips for Playing
Here are a few tips for playing P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty:
- Master the controls: The P-38 Lightning is a complex aircraft to fly, so it is important to master the controls before you head into battle. Take some time to practice flying the aircraft in Quick Combat mode before you attempt the campaign.
- Use your versatility: The P-38 Lightning is a versatile aircraft, so don’t be afraid to use it for a variety of roles. You can use it to engage in dogfights, bomb enemy positions, or conduct reconnaissance missions.
- Team up with other players: P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty supports multiplayer gameplay, so team up with other players to take on the enemy. You can work together to complete missions, or you can simply compete against each other in a deathmatch.
Conclusion
P-38 Lightning Tour of Duty is a classic flight simulator that offers a unique and immersive experience. It is a challenging and rewarding game that is sure to please fans of flight sims and World War II history buffs alike.
Review Score
7/10
