Ace Combat Joint Assault

SCORE: 69

Any video game fan can at least identify with Ace Combat. This high-flying franchise may be the most recognizable air combat franchise in gaming history. For months now PSP owners have been extremely excited about the new Ace Combat: Joint Assault title making its way to the powerful handheld. And August 31, 2010 marks the day of lift off on the PSP.

Unlike previous Ace Combat titles, Ace Combat: Joint Assault has a real world setting with real world locations including Tokyo, London, San Francisco and more. This will be a real pleasure for Ace Combat fans as this is the first time in the storied franchise that real world maps are being used. The visual presentation of the locations and settings looks great on the PSP. On one level I left my squadron to fly around Tokyo, and was amazed at the level of detail in the city. One of my favorite presentation aspects of the game is watching the replay when the mission is over. The explosions are very realistic and the aerial combat is fun to watch. Ace Combat: Joint Assault really pushes the envelop for gaming on the PSP.

Ace Combat: Joint Assault also boasts some new features including online gameplay, Co-op campaign mode, and a new AI system. The new online co-op modes allow for up-to 4 players to join together in campaign mode. The game will evolve as the co-op players work together through different maps. Also available, is VS battle mode that allows up to 8 players to compete. What makes all this combat and co-op so much fun is the realism of the aircraft themselves. Gamers can utilize more than 30 state of the art combat aircraft. All of which look great on the PSP screen. Combining the great aircraft art and the wonderful environments, Ace Combat: Joint Assault really comes to life on the PSP.

The new combat view system, called “Enhanced Combat View”, shows combat at an entirely new perspective. The new combat view gives the gamer a new sense of speed in the air and control over the aircraft. All of the options for weapons, radar, etc are easy to access with the user friendly developing for the PSP buttons.

Parents will need to be careful to respect the “Teen” rating, as the game does include some cursing. Of course, there is the option to turn the sound off. However, the dialogue is typed on the screen so the mild language is still available for the gamers to read. Also, the entire game is focus on combat and destroying the enemy. That can be used as a discussion topic as well. Parents can review with the kids the importance of helping those in need, as well as when combat may or may not be necessary.

Overall, Ace Combat: Joint Assault is a fun air combat game that teens and adult gamers can enjoy. The presentation and control make this a must have for flight game fans.
- Alan

Graphics: 62%
Sound: 70%
Replay/Extras: 77%
Gameplay: 76%
Family Friendly Factor: 60%
System: Playstation Portable
Publisher: Namco Bandai
Rating: 'T' for Teen
{Mild Language, Violence}

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