Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Shooter, Simulator
- Platforms: Amiga, Amiga CD32, DOS, FM Towns, Game Boy Advance, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation, Sega CD, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Origin Systems
- Publishers: ASCII Corporation, Fujitsu Interactive, GameTap Entertainment, Mindscape, Inc., Origin Systems, Sega Entertainment
Wing Commander (1990): A Space Combat Classic
Released in 1990, Wing Commander was a groundbreaking space combat simulation game that set the standard for immersive gameplay and thrilling storytelling. Developed by Origin Systems and published by Electronic Arts, Wing Commander quickly became a critical and commercial success, spawning a long-running franchise that includes sequels, spin-offs, and novels.
Gameplay
Wing Commander puts players in the cockpit of a starfighter and tasks them with completing a series of missions against the Kilrathi, a fierce alien race. The game features a variety of mission types, including dogfights, bombing runs, and escort missions. Players must use their piloting skills, weapons, and僚机 to survive and complete their objectives.
One of the most innovative aspects of Wing Commander was its use of a dynamic campaign system. The player’s performance in each mission affects the overall story and gameplay. For example, going above and beyond the call of duty can result in medals and promotions, while failure on certain critical missions can lead to the player’s death or the loss of the game.
Story
Wing Commander takes place in the year 2654, during a war between the Terran Confederation and the Kilrathi Empire. The player takes on the role of a rookie pilot named Christopher Blair, who is assigned to the TCS Tiger’s Claw, a carrier ship on the front lines of the war.
As Blair progresses through the game, he learns more about the conflict and the characters involved. He also develops relationships with his fellow pilots, including the enigmatic Paladin and the fiery Maniac.
The story of Wing Commander is told through a combination of in-game dialogue, cutscenes, and mission briefings. The game’s writing is top-notch, with well-developed characters and a gripping plot.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Wing Commander’s graphics were cutting-edge. The game used a combination of 2D and 3D graphics to create a realistic and immersive space environment. The ship and character designs were also very well done.
The game’s sound is also excellent. The music is stirring and sets the mood for the action, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive.
Reception
Wing Commander was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game won numerous awards, including Game of the Year from Computer Gaming World and PC Gamer. It also sold over 300,000 copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling PC games of its time.
Critics praised Wing Commander for its innovative gameplay, immersive story, and excellent graphics and sound. The game is still considered to be one of the best space combat simulations ever made.
Legacy
Wing Commander has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s dynamic campaign system and immersive storytelling have been imitated by many other games, and its space combat mechanics have set the standard for the genre.
The Wing Commander franchise has also been very successful, with numerous sequels, spin-offs, and novels. The most recent game in the series, Wing Commander: Prophecy, was released in 1997.
Conclusion
Wing Commander (1990) is a classic space combat simulation game that set the standard for immersive gameplay and thrilling storytelling. The game’s innovative dynamic campaign system, well-developed characters, and excellent graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
