Summary
- Release Year: 1993
- Genres: Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, DOS
- Publishers: Impressions Games
Air Force Commander (1993): A Comprehensive Guide to Air Supremacy
Introduction
Air Force Commander is a groundbreaking air combat simulation game released in 1993 for MS-DOS. Developed by Digital Image Design and published by MicroProse, this game puts you in command of a Middle Eastern country’s air force, tasked with gaining air superiority over the enemy. Unlike other air combat games of the time, Air Force Commander focuses solely on aircraft and rocket bases, providing a unique and immersive experience for players.
Gameplay
The game is played on an overhead map, where you give orders to your units, including attacking ground targets, scouting, and intercepting enemy forces. Different map views provide information such as targets in range, flight movements, and civil facilities. Resource management is crucial in Air Force Commander, as every base and unit costs resources. If resources become scarce, you can shut down some bases to conserve them.
Another important aspect of the game is public mood. If the public becomes too dissatisfied, for example, due to destroyed civilian facilities or food shortages, you will lose your commission and the game will end. Therefore, it is important to balance military operations with the needs of the civilian population.
Units
Air Force Commander features a wide range of aircraft and ground units, each with its own unique capabilities and roles. Aircraft include fighters, bombers, interceptors, and transports, while ground units include anti-aircraft artillery, missile launchers, and radar stations.
Campaigns
The game includes three campaigns, each with its own unique objectives and challenges. The first campaign takes place in the Middle East, where you must defend your country from an invading force. The second campaign is set in Europe, where you must fight your way through enemy territory to reach Berlin. The third campaign is a hypothetical conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union, where you must use your air power to gain control of key strategic locations.
Multiplayer
Air Force Commander also features a multiplayer mode, allowing you to compete against other players over a LAN or modem connection. In multiplayer, you can choose to play as either side of the conflict, and you can customize your game settings to create a unique and challenging experience.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Air Force Commander featured impressive graphics and sound. The overhead map is detailed and easy to read, and the unit sprites are well-animated. The game’s sound effects are also top-notch, with realistic explosions and aircraft noises.
Critical Reception
Air Force Commander received critical acclaim upon its release, with many reviewers praising its innovative gameplay, challenging campaigns, and realistic graphics and sound. The game was a commercial success, selling over 250,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Air Force Commander is considered one of the best air combat simulation games ever made. It was one of the first games to focus on resource management and strategic planning, and it set a new standard for realism and immersion in the genre. The game has been cited as an inspiration for many later air combat games, including the Ace Combat series and the Total Air War series.
Conclusion
Air Force Commander is a classic air combat simulation game that offers a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. With its focus on resource management, strategic planning, and realistic graphics and sound, Air Force Commander is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
