ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN – A Balanced Review
ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN is a modern flight combat simulator developed by Bandai Namco Entertainment, offering an exhilarating experience for fans of the genre. Released in 2019, this game brings the long-running ACE COMBAT series into the current generation with stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and a storyline that blends fictional geopolitics with intense aerial dogfights. However, like any game, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Below is an in-depth look at what makes ACE COMBAT™ 7 soar high and where it might fall short.
Pros
1. Stunning Visuals and Immersive Atmosphere
One of the standout features of ACE COMBAT™ 7 is its visual presentation. The game leverages Unreal Engine 4 to deliver breathtaking skies, detailed aircraft models, and dynamic weather effects that impact gameplay. The realistic lighting and weather systems not only make the game look beautiful but also add layers of depth to the experience. Flying through a storm with rain splattering on your cockpit or dodging lightning strikes while chasing enemies is as thrilling as it is visually spectacular.
2. Engaging and Varied Mission Design
The game offers a diverse range of missions that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. From intense dogfights against multiple enemies to precision bombing runs and high-speed chases through narrow canyons, ACE COMBAT™ 7 ensures that players are constantly challenged. The missions are designed to test both your piloting skills and strategic thinking, often requiring quick decision-making under pressure.
3. Deep Customization and Aircraft Variety
Players can choose from a wide array of aircraft, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The game also offers extensive customization options, allowing you to equip your planes with different weapons, parts, and skins. This level of customization not only adds to the replayability of the game but also allows players to tailor their aircraft to suit their playstyle.
4. Immersive Storyline
ACE COMBAT™ 7 features a compelling narrative set in the fictional world of Strangereal. The story weaves together themes of war, loyalty, and the human cost of conflict, with cinematic cutscenes that enhance the overall experience. While the plot can be complex, it adds a layer of emotional depth that is often missing in flight simulators.
5. VR Mode
For those with access to virtual reality, ACE COMBAT™ 7 offers a VR mode that is nothing short of immersive. This mode allows players to fully experience the thrill of flight from a first-person perspective, making the aerial combat even more intense. The VR experience is widely praised for its ability to make you feel like you’re truly in the cockpit.
Cons
1. Steep Learning Curve
While the game is accessible to newcomers, it does have a steep learning curve, especially for those unfamiliar with flight simulators. Mastering the controls, understanding the nuances of flight dynamics, and effectively managing your aircraft in combat can be challenging. This may deter casual players who are looking for a more straightforward arcade experience.
2. Repetitive Elements
Despite the variety in mission design, some players may find that certain elements of the game become repetitive over time. This is particularly true in the later stages, where mission objectives can start to feel similar, and the novelty of the dynamic weather systems might wear off. The repetition can make the latter part of the game feel like a bit of a grind.
3. Limited Multiplayer Content
While ACE COMBAT™ 7 does include a multiplayer mode, it is somewhat limited in scope. The multiplayer offerings are not as robust as those found in other competitive games, with fewer maps and modes to choose from. This limitation can make the multiplayer experience feel shallow, especially for players who are looking for long-term competitive play.
4. Occasional Storyline Confusion
The game’s storyline, while engaging, can sometimes be confusing due to its complex geopolitics and multiple character perspectives. Players unfamiliar with the lore of the ACE COMBAT series might struggle to follow the plot, which could diminish the emotional impact of the story.
5. Lack of Realism for Hardcore Sim Fans
For hardcore flight simulator enthusiasts, ACE COMBAT™ 7 might not offer the level of realism they are seeking. The game leans more towards arcade-style action rather than a true-to-life simulation. While this makes the game more accessible, it might not satisfy players who prefer a more authentic flight experience.
Conclusion
ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN is a visually stunning and mechanically solid entry in the long-running series. Its engaging missions, deep customization, and immersive atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of aerial combat games. However, the steep learning curve, repetitive elements, and limited multiplayer content may not appeal to everyone. Overall, it’s a game that soars in many areas but has a few turbulence spots along the way.
Whether you’re a veteran pilot of the series or a newcomer to the skies, ACE COMBAT™ 7 offers a thrilling experience that is worth taking flight with.
