Master of the Skies: The Red Ace

Master of the Skies: The Red Ace is a World War I dogfighting game marketed by Small Rockets. This game is currently distributed only through Electronic Software Distribution.

Master of the Skies: The Red Ace
Developer(s)	Fiendish Games
Publisher(s)	Small Rockets
Platform(s)	Windows
Release date(s)	April 30, 2000
Genre(s)	Vehicle simulation game, action
Mode(s)	Single-player
Media/distribution	Electronic Software Distribution (ESD)
System requirements Windows 95 / 98 / ME / 2000 / XP, Intel Pentium II 233 MHz and equivalent , 32MB RAM, 3D Accelerator card (at least 8MB), 60MB free hard disk space, SoundBlaster or DirectSound sound card, mouse.

History

This game was originally developed by Fiendish Games. However the company soon became bankrupt and was not able to sell the game any more. However Small Rockets has resumed the distribution of the game though only through Electronic Software Distribution method as of now.

Gameplay

The gameplay is based in World War I with the player taking the role of flying one of the first Allied combat aircraft in history. The player has to complete missions like fighting enemy aircraft, destroying tanks and AA cannons, bombing industries, saving fellow pilots etc. As the player progresses through levels, he is given higher ranks from Corporal to Colonel. There are a total of 25 missions set in three different areas: France, Belgium and Africa. There are four aircraft available to fly which the computer automatically selects for the player. The player is equipped with machine guns and either rockets or bombs. In the final mission, the player finally manages to track the Baron, engages him in combat, and emerges as the victor. As soon as the last mission is completed, the player gets access to numerous cheat codes and special soundtracks.

Reception

This game was received by a good critic reception and a reasonably good customer opinion. The PC Gamer UK Magazine gave a 83/100 rating while Lake's Digital Arts gave a 8/10 rating. IGNPC made the following good comment on the game:"It's fast as lightning, ... and fun -- just like real flying!". The game has been praised universally for its good graphics and story line.

References

[1] The official game website [2] A fan website.