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Review of Ace Combat: Assault Horizon on PS3

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Oct 2011
Cover image of Ace Combat: Assault Horizon on PS3
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: PS3 PS3 logo
Released: 11 Oct 2011
Genre: Air Combat Simulation
Developer: Project Aces
Publisher: Bandai Namco Games

Introduction

Welcome to 'Ace Combat: Assault Horizon', a thrilling flight simulator that dares to shove you into the cockpit of high-octane jet fighters before cranking the drama up to eleven. With stunning visuals and an all-star cast of characters to accompany you on your aerial escapades, it's like Top Gun meets a poignant soap opera - but with more missiles. The game allows you to engage in dogfights and coordinate missions with a ragtag group of pilots who are as dramatic as they are skilled. Buckle up, buttercup, because things are about to get heavy in the skies!

Gameplay

Gameplay in 'Assault Horizon' is not just about proving who has the biggest, most pointy-winged aircraft; it also embraces an innovative 'Dogfight Mode' (DFM). When you get close enough to the enemy, push a couple of buttons, and bam! You're locked in a high-speed embrace; it's not unlike falling in love, except way more explosions and jet fuel. You also get to take control of helicopters and bombers, which is a game-changer for fans who secretly dreamed of being a helicopter pilot without the need for an obnoxious degree. Multiplayer features enhance the experience, bringing sunshine and turf wars to the party with modes like 'Capital Conquest' and 'Domination'. Imagine two teams flying around trying to destroy each other's headquarters while debating whether pineapple belongs on pizza. Co-op missions return, just in case you want to share the fun (or the blame) with a friend, and there's something satisfying about screaming "Watch my six!" at your buddy while they crash into a mountain. The game also delivers two control schemes: the 'Optimum' control scheme is for chicken-hearted folks who prefer stability to fancy flying, while 'Original' lets you bust out those sweet, sweet barrel rolls, because who doesn't want unnecessary drama in their virtual pilot life?

Graphics

Let's discuss visuals, shall we? 'Assault Horizon' is eye candy; it's a feast for your peepers! The real-world locations are beautifully rendered using satellite imagery because who doesn't want their game to take place in real cities like Miami, Dubai, and Moscow? Just don't forget to put the controller down and appreciate the scenery during all those aerial dogfights - go ahead and appreciate the fine architecture of your enemies' bases as you combine it with a nice explosion. You'll feel like a real-life god of war, striking down buildings like they stole your lunch money.

Conclusion

Overall, 'Ace Combat: Assault Horizon' turns a head-shaking experience with flight simulation into an action-packed thrill ride filled with melodramatic moments. While some might have preferred the earlier games' orientation toward fanciful settings, the upgrade to reality brings along its own merits - like realism in your shenanigans. It could've been tighter overall, like that awkward kissing scene in a B-movie, but there's real charm behind the SAT-n7-spec visuals that ensures you'll get lost in dogfights and heart-pounding scenarios. For players who enjoy dramatic story arcs combined with high-stakes aerial battles, it's a no-brainer. Give yourself a break from the daily grind and head to the clouds; the cockpit awaits!

See Latest Prices for Ace Combat: Assault Horizon on PS3 on Amazon

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