After Burner III (1991)

by Christopher February 26, 2019

written by Christopher February 26, 2019 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1991
Genres: Arcade, Shooter
Platforms: Arcade, FM Towns, Sega CD
Developers: CRI Middleware, Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
Publishers: CSK Research Institute

After Burner III (1991): Arcade Classic Takes Flight

Prepare for takeoff with After Burner III, the electrifying arcade classic that redefined flight simulation in 1991. Developed by Sega, this exhilarating game puts you in the cockpit of the Navy’s mightiest fighter jet, the F-14 Tomcat. Strap yourself in and brace for an adrenaline-pumping journey through enemy territory, dodging cannon fire, locking onto targets, and unleashing a devastating arsenal of weaponry.

Gameplay: A Heart-Pounding Flight Experience

After Burner III immerses you in an intense aerial combat experience. You’ll soar through diverse landscapes, from scorching deserts to towering mountains, engaging in high-stakes dogfights against enemy jets, tanks, and missile sites. The game’s intuitive controls and responsive gameplay make you feel like you’re truly in command of a fighter jet, pulling off daring maneuvers and unleashing a barrage of firepower.

At the heart of After Burner III’s gameplay is the titular afterburner, which gives your F-14 Tomcat an explosive burst of speed, allowing you to outmaneuver enemies and escape dangerous situations. Masterful use of the afterburner is key to surviving the game’s relentless onslaught of enemies and completing missions successfully.

Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Aural Spectacle

For its time, After Burner III boasted impressive graphics that brought the game’s intense aerial combat to life. The detailed fighter jets, sprawling landscapes, and explosive effects created a visually stunning experience that captivated arcade-goers. The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a pulsating techno beat that perfectly complements the high-octane gameplay, creating an immersive and unforgettable atmosphere.

Missions and Objectives: A Variety of Challenges

After Burner III offers a diverse range of missions and objectives, ensuring a consistently engaging and challenging experience. You’ll embark on daring bombing runs, taking out enemy targets with precision strikes. You’ll engage in intense dogfights, outmaneuvering and shooting down enemy jets in thrilling aerial duels. And you’ll face off against formidable boss battles, testing your skills and reflexes to the limit.

Legacy and Impact: A Genre-Defining Classic

After Burner III left an indelible mark on the flight simulation genre, becoming one of the most beloved and iconic arcade games of all time. Its fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and pulse-pounding soundtrack captivated players worldwide. The game’s influence can still be seen in modern flight simulators and action games, a testament to its enduring legacy.

Conclusion: A Timeless Arcade Masterpiece

After Burner III (1991) remains a timeless arcade masterpiece, offering an exhilarating and immersive flight simulation experience that continues to thrill gamers today. Its intuitive controls, stunning graphics, and heart-pounding gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned flight sim enthusiast or simply looking for a classic arcade experience, After Burner III is an absolute gem that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.