My Played Video Games Review: Air Strike Patrol for the Super Nintendo

A.S.P. Air Strike Patrol is an isometric shoot 'em up developed by Japanese studio Opus and published by Japanese computer gaming company SETA in 1994 for the Super Nintendo/Super Famicom.

I was not satisfied with those 16-bit helicopter Strike series of games, feeling they didn't reach their full potential. I wished for a game that could do better. When I heard about this one, I hesitated because I like helicopters more than planes, and I was worried I might not enjoy it. But, to my relief, my concerns were dumb. The game is excellent. And every important aspect stands up well compared to the Strike series.

The Story

Ziraq has launched an invasion on tiny country of Suweit! As the Air Force commander, your mission is crucial. Utilize advanced intelligence, identify your targets, load up your plane, and obliterate chemical weapon plants, radar sites, enemy vehicles, and more. Get ready for the challenge of a lifetime as you strap yourself into the cockpit and take to the skies.

The Graphics and Sound

Looking at it with the perspective of its time versus the present, the game's graphics are commendable. The use of mode 7 scaling and rotation is noteworthy, providing a clean and vibrant color palette within the limitations of the SNES's on-screen colors. Fluid animations and the scaling effect for clouds upon entering an area add to the visual appeal. While it may not match modern standards, it captures the essence of the era when games prioritized greatness over eye candy.

The audio is well-executed, with entertaining sound effects like the bad guys screaming when their vehicles are in flames. However, the game loses a few points for the unclear speech heard when entering an area, as the words remain unclear. Despite this, the overall audio quality contributes positively to the gaming experience.

The Gameplay

The gameplay is like the Strike series of games, but with airplanes instead of helicopters. You fly around completing specific objectives, like destroying a power generator or radar, and picking up items or hostages. The unique part is that each board is a big campaign that you need to finish within a time limit. You have to manage your time for refueling, restocking weapons, and changing locations. This adds a strategic element, like deciding whether to weaken enemies by destroying a fuel depot or save time and face them at full strength. Overall, it's a great and effective formula.

The controls are responsive and easy to learn. The game is enjoyable to play casually whenever you are bored or just want to have fun. However, it lacks a two-player dogfight or other multiplayer options, which could have added to the replay value.

My Verdict

Air Strike Patrol is a hidden gem that many might not have discovered. If you stumble upon it and have an old Super Nintendo/Super Famicom or forgotten emulator lying around, it's definitely worth giving it a try.

Play it on the unforgettable Super Nintendo/Super Famicom or play it on a worthy emulator.

Let's keep on gaming in the free world!