In the ‘90s, the “Ace Combat” series was easily one of the most heralded franchises in gaming. One of Namco’s big three of “Tekken” and “Ridge Racer,” the game sold close to four million copies on the PlayStation and even more when the series moved to the PlayStation 2. However, with little gameplay innovation during the last console generation, the series stalled significantly, losing the majority of its fan base, many of who were still eager to play a dog-fighting sim.
in 2011, “Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy” came along and was a pleasant surprise, even if it wasn’t reflective in its sales. A nice combination of the old-school dog-fighting that made the game a hit in the ‘90s and a new story, it’s a game that fans of the series clamored for.
The only difference with Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy+ is essentially Amiibo functionality. Even the game’s cover looks eerily similar to the original, with the Amiibo functionality sticker the only aesthetic addition. But with improved controls, visuals and Amiibo features, it’s a better game than the original, but it still suffers from all of the same issues of the original including bland textures, a slow-moving story and a lack of gameplay diversity. The end result is still a better game, just not enough for anyone to purchase the game who already has it.
Those who missed out on the first release of the game and have a fond recollection of the experience will find it a more than adequate aerial combat experience.
The Good:
Amiibo Features: If you dug the way you can change the look of your racers in “Mario Kart” on the Wii U, you’ll love the customization features in “Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy+.” Adding an extra level of fun to the game, they’ll definitely add some much-needed extra gameplay time.
Head Tracking: It’s not the most amazing feature, but it’s cool to play in 3D and not lose the experience when you’re moving your head around. A step above the original experience on the older 3DS, the feature does its part in making for a better game experience than the original.
Better Controls: The added buttons on the new 3DS make the game feel as close to the classic Ace Combat experience on the PlayStation One and Two.
The Bad:
Horrible Looking Textures: The game’s backgrounds looked especially blocky in the original release and nothing has changed this time around. While the improved 3D helps the game’s overall look, it’s not nearly enough to facilitate a purchase.
Not Much Has Changed: Away from the Amiibo features and polished controls, there’s little else that’s been added to the formula from the original 3DS release. While the game was solid upon its original release, everything from the menus to visuals look virtually identical.
Final Thoughts:
“Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy+” is a more than solid addition to the series, granted you to didn’t take to the air when the game was originally released in 2011. Amiibo features and improved controls and visuals aside, there’s not enough to warrant another purchase.
The post Retro Review: ‘Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy+’ Review: Not Enough New Content appeared first on Old School Gamer Magazine.
