Three modes of play are available at the start screen: training, arcade and reality mode. Training is just that and arcade is a simpler mode compared to reality.
As soon as you start the helicopter takes off automatically and your goal is to
fly around and blast as many other copters and planes out of the sky before you're gunned
down. Your final score is only a total of how many enemies were killed. Reality mode adds
more physics to the game play. When you turn your view tilts to a 45 degree angle as a
helicopter would in real life. It does add a nice touch to the game play.One problem with the game is the lack of variety in the game play. You can see mountains in the background but you can't ever fly near them. They are just scenery. There are no obstacles to avoid, just enemy fire. The frame rate is very smooth, eliminating obnoxious and confusing gameplay.
Targeting is easy as button one fires a machine gun and button two fires a homing missile. You have a cross hair which turns red when an enemy is in range and ammo always replenishes slowly when not firing.
Sound also works well in this game. You are treated to a memorable theme at the title screen, I found myself leaving it on to listen to the theme more than once. The sound effects all fit well. All of the weapons sound as they should.
The only problem is with the helicopter engines. They are a bit loud and can become monotonous when you don't have weapon fire to break up the sound.
I would recommend this game to pretty much anyone. It has practically no learning curve and can be played for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. If you, like me, are tired of poor quality and low frame rate NES flight sims then this is a great alternative. It won't make your wallet cry either.
