Prepare for Takeoff: Aces of Thunder, a VR Flight Sim Adventure
Gaijin Entertainment has crafted a masterpiece with Aces of Thunder, a title that pays homage to the golden age of flight sims. But is it a worthy successor to the legendary Great Warplanes Series?
For those who fondly recall the DOS-era classics like Red Baron, Aces of the Pacific, and Aces Over Europe, Aces of Thunder might evoke a sense of nostalgia. While it doesn't share the same lineage, it aims to deliver an exceptional combat flight sim experience.
The Game Breakdown
What's it all about? Aces of Thunder is a solo and multiplayer combat flight simulator, a spin-off from the renowned War Thunder.
Platforms: Available on PS VR2 and PC VR (reviewed on Quest 3).
Release Date: Already available for eager pilots.
Developer & Publisher: Gaijin Entertainment takes the reins on both fronts.
Price: A reasonable $29.99, or $50 for the Deluxe Edition with extra aircraft.
Aces of Thunder focuses on iconic World War planes, featuring four from WWI, including the iconic Fokker Dr.I, and 20 from WWII, such as the Mustang, Spitfire, and Zero. It's a trip down memory lane for those who grew up with these planes hanging from their bedroom ceilings.
But here's where opinions might differ. Some may argue that Aces of Thunder is merely a condensed version of War Thunder, sharing the same engine and assets. However, there are crucial differences. Firstly, all aircraft in Aces of Thunder are readily accessible, unlike War Thunder's grind. For a modest $30, you're a pilot with no tedious unlocking required. Secondly, VR is seamlessly integrated into the game, offering an unparalleled immersive experience.
The VR implementation is exceptional. Unlike War Thunder, where VR feels like an afterthought, Aces of Thunder fully embraces the technology. Your cockpit is your only view, with no third-person cameras or intrusive HUD elements. The challenge lies in mastering the controls while interpreting your instruments, the creaking of the airframe, and the subtle vibrations before disaster strikes. It's a thrilling and demanding experience that demands your full attention.
Solo Adventures and Multiplayer Battles
Aces of Thunder provides a generous solo campaign with 14 missions and nine War Stories. These stories offer a truncated journey through WWII, from Dover to Pearl Harbor and beyond. While the missions lack a strong narrative thread, they are surprisingly replayable due to their straightforward nature.
The Mission Editor is a standout feature, allowing players to create custom encounters. Choose your theater, map sector, engagement type, weather, and skill level for a tailored experience. It's a nod to the old-school flight sims, offering a proper throwback for veterans.
Multiplayer battles, while limited in player count, provide intense dogfights. The game matches you with suitable battles, filling the skies with bots if needed. Custom Battles allow for wilder scenarios, like Sopwith Camels dueling over Saipan.
The Good, the Bad, and the Frustrating
The game has its highs and lows. The limited settings and cumbersome menu navigation, especially with the VR glove, can be a source of frustration. Reassigning controls is a test of patience, and the lack of tutorials or tooltips can leave players feeling lost.
Comfort-wise, Aces of Thunder may induce motion sickness, especially during tight maneuvers. However, once you find your sweet spot with the settings and controls, the game becomes a visceral thrill ride. The aircraft models and handling are exceptional, and the immersive VR experience shines when you're dodging tracers and debris.
Final Verdict
Despite some shortcomings, Aces of Thunder delivers an exhilarating combat flight sim experience. It may not cater to beginners, but for those seeking a challenging and immersive VR adventure, it's a must-try. The game's strengths lie in its intense gameplay, stunning visuals, and a VR implementation that sets a new standard. But is it a worthy successor to the classics? That's a debate for the comments section.
