GUNSHIP

Developer

Options

Distributer

Microprose

1 Player

Game Type

Helicopter Sim

Mem. Card

Review Date

July 1996

Setting the Scene

Microprose, a company famous for creating military simulators for the PC, have converted Gunship 2000, to the Playstation format.

Genre

Gunship (2000) is a helicopter simulator that pits your skills and the skills of your squad against enemies in two major theatres of war.

Graphics

The graphics for this game are a vast improvement over the PC version ,with the landscape now texture mapped. Each copter features multiple views. On my copy, the fantastic opening sequence does not run smoothly. The animation is well done, but the picture and the sound have not been matched properly. The same can be said for the FMV sequences that introduce the two Campaigns. These are minor gripes. Explosions, burning enemy wrecks, and multiple views are a treat!

Sounds and Effects

Adequate for this type of game.

Playability

A common complaint with PSX games is that they look great but do not have great staying power. After a week or two you are ready to trade it in, for the next dose of 'eye candy'. This is not the case with Gunship. If you like simulators, then this game with its 'infinite' number of missions, will keep you occupied and happy for ages. Initially the player controls one helicopter in either a Quick-Fire Game, Training, or Single Scenario Mission. After a promotion or two, you get control of a five copter squad, and step up to five squad and campaign scenario missions. This opens up endless possibilities on how to play the game, and extends the life of the game indefinitely. Coupled with the ability to fine-tune the game for difficulty, this makes for a great challenge. The control of the helicopter using the standard PSX controller is fine, just remember that there are over ten functions to use, as you play the game. I have not tried the game with an aftermarket joystick. Load times for missions are a bit lengthy. If you like simulators then this is a must buy. Not for every PC Simulator fan, but on the PSX, this is a great challenge.

Additional Information
Helicopters: Surveillance: AH6 Defender and OH-58D Kiowa Warrior Troop and Cargo Transport: UH60 Blackhawk Stealth: AH-66 ACommanche (two versions) (limited weapons carrying capability) Heavy Duty: AH-64A and AH-64D Apache
Weapons: Unguided: Rockets, Gunpods, cannon Guided: Hellfire, Sidewinder, Stinger, Anti-Radar, Penguin (anti-ship), Maverick. Defence: Chaff and flares.

Value for Money

At last a real simulation for the PlayStation. Infinite mission generator will add to the longevity of the game. Graphics are an improvement over the PC version. The control of the helicopter is fine using the standard controller.

Opinion

GREG

GRAPHICS:

Average

Worth checking out.

SOUND:

Average

PLAYABILITY:

Good

VALUE:

Good

OVERALL
7/10

JIM

GRAPHICS:

Average

A brave attempt at bringing a helicopter simulation to the console market.

SOUND:

Average

PLAYABILITY:

Good

VALUE:

Good

OVERALL
7.5/10