Thursday, 25 Jul 2024

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown Review

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is an exhilarating aerial adventure that delivers intense dogfights, responsive controls, and epic battles that will have you on the edge of your seat. As you soar through canyons and take down enemies with precision, the game immerses you in a world of high-flying action. However, it does have its share of turbulence that may leave some players wanting more.

A Thrilling Airborne Experience

Developer Project Aces has leveraged the latest military technology to bring new planes and formidable adversaries to the series. While the overall game design pays homage to the beloved Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War, it does have its flaws. Missions can sometimes feel slow-paced, and certain objectives like scoring challenges may seem like filler activities. However, the intense dogfights and exhilarating moments of combat more than make up for these shortcomings.

Challenging Weather Conditions

One of the game’s standout features is the inclusion of dynamic weather conditions that add an extra layer of challenge and excitement. Engaging rival pilots amidst raging storms or navigating through low altitudes to avoid radar detection creates a sense of realism and complexity. While it can be frustrating to lose targeting due to lightning strikes, it adds to the chaos and intensity of the gameplay.

Classic Dogfighting Mechanics

The dogfighting mechanics in Ace Combat 7 may feel familiar to long-time fans of the series. The gameplay focuses on outsmarting your opponents and engaging in intense aerial duels. As you maneuver your plane to get behind your enemy, lining up the perfect shot becomes a thrill in itself. The game’s targeting system is skill-based and rewards players who master the art of aerial combat.

The Rise of Drones

While you’ll face off against a new group of rival aces, the real challenge comes from the introduction of drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles can perform maneuvers that human pilots cannot and pose a significant threat. The game’s story, revolving around the conflict between the Osean Federation and the Kingdom of Erusea, may not live up to the series’ past storytelling achievements. However, it still offers plenty of fast-paced and entertaining moments.

Progression and Multiplayer

Ace Combat 7 offers a progression system where you earn credits to purchase aircraft, weapons, and upgrades. However, the path to obtaining new equipment can be convoluted, forcing you to buy unwanted items to reach your desired purchases. This design decision can lead to repetitive missions with the same aircraft. The multiplayer mode, featuring an eight-player Battle Royale, challenges your skills against other players. Although matches can sometimes lack excitement due to cautious tactics and time limitations, the dogfighting mechanics remain impressive.

The VR Experience

The PlayStation 4 version of Ace Combat 7 includes an exclusive PlayStation VR mode. While not the main focus of the game, this mode offers a unique mini-campaign that utilizes the VR headset. The sensation of flying and performing high-speed maneuvers in virtual reality is exhilarating but can be intense for some players. It’s a worthwhile addition for those who already own the VR headset.

FAQs

Q: Can I play Ace Combat 7 in VR throughout the entire game?
A: No, the VR mode is limited to a unique mini-campaign, but it provides an immersive experience that adds to the game’s excitement.

Q: Are the multiplayer battles intense and competitive?
A: While multiplayer matches can sometimes lack excitement due to cautious tactics and time limitations, the dogfighting mechanics and skill-based gameplay create an engaging experience.

Conclusion

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is a welcome addition to the long-running series, offering thrilling dogfights and immersive aerial combat. It may have some flaws in its mission design and storytelling, but the intense gameplay and responsive controls make up for these shortcomings. Whether you’re a fan of the series or a newcomer to aerial combat games, Ace Combat 7 is sure to deliver an adrenaline-filled adventure.