Even though Top Gun is nearly a decade old, the effects of this film is still felt on videogames. Every year a slew of jet fighter titles make their way onto consoles,
with varying degrees of success. Ace Combat 2 represents the very best aspects of this genre by offering a complete flying experience. With its realistic terrain
graphics, excellent control, and well defined missions, this title is one of the most enjoyable arial combat games for the PlayStation.

The graphics are more realistic than most console flight simulators. Whether it is rolling hills on an unnamed coastal region, or vast cityscapes hiding anti-aircraft
cannons, the evironments are as convincingly real for a PlayStation title. Using the environment is a major part of the strategy when ground targets must be
eliminated. In these missions, players can use ground cover such as mountains, buildings, and deep valleys to hide from enemy fire.

Control is excellent, with each aircraft reacting uniquely, depending upon their individual attributes. Between the easy handling F-4 and the lightning fast F-22 the
control changes dramatically. With a wide variety of vehicles to choose from, players have the opportunity to select the aircraft that fits them best.

Also a plus, is the game's intuitive heads-up display. The on-screen information is well organized, and incredibly helpful. By displaying lock-on information, target
distance, flight warnings, and a host of other details, the game keeps players informed on what's going on all around them.

Another solid feature in Ace Combat 2 is the well defined objectives. With large environments that palyers can roam across, it would be easy to get lost if the
missions were not designed as well as they are. By using numerous reminders such as a wide radar screen, as easy to recall map, and small direction arrows, the
game keeps players on the right path.

While everything mentioned so far make this title an enjoyable and exciting title, several little details detract from the overall experience. The special effects, for
instance are less than spectacular, which is disappointment for players expecting some visual reward for dowing an enemy fighter. The sound effects are completely
adequate, but don't quite match up to the rest of the title's other qualities. Besides these few, minor complaints its hard to say anything wrong about a title as fun as
Ace Combat 2.

Bottom Line: If you are looking for an excellent flight combat title, look no further than Ace Combat