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Preview  Top Gun: Combat Zone [GCN]
- By Mike Schneider [Editor In Chief]


Many moons ago, a game aptly titled Top Gun was released on the Nintendo Entertainment System. It wowed with some stellar graphics for the time period, and some equally solid gameplay. Gamers could jump into the cockpit and try to replicate their favorite 80s pilots by getting into some intense dogfights.

So now we ask the question: Can an old dog discover new tricks?

Titus seems to think so, and they’ve come to play with an impressive showing of features. For those who are asking “well what about Rogue Leader, I already got my fill of aerial combat with that, didn’t I?” we answer by emphasizing the more realistic mission aspects. For starters, all of the game’s 36 missions (set over three distinct time periods) take place over four worldly environments: South East Asia, the Gulf States, Arctic Circle, and Miramar Base. Gameplay will be varied, as some missions will involve high flying dog fighting, while others will call for you getting down and dirty and close to the terrain for some low flying blitz attacks.

However, even on top of this, there seems to be an emphasis on arcade style action, as well. From the press release, it can be quoted as “astounding and very detailed graphics especially in low flying missions to emphasize ARCADE ACTION over mere piloting.”

Even with the arcade emphasis, the game remains true to its Top Gun roots with an impressive plethora of Naval goodies at your disposal. The F-14, F-18, F-22, are all selectable planes – and players are encouraged to try to unlock 5 bonus planes.

For replay value, gamers may try to improve their scores in missions since Top Gun Combat Zone has a bonus scoring system that rewards for low-level flying and expert maneuvering. Moreover, there is an Academy Tutorial that helps newbies get acquainted with being a pilot.

Finally, one of the most intriguing aspects of the game is the “Quick Start” mode. In this, one may build an unlimited array of new missions by choosing their plain, terrain, difficulty level, and opponents.

Look for this one in stores soon, it should provide some entertaining action.

- 6.19.2002