The Final Word game review

Sky Odyssey -- Activision

R.I.P.
Ever since I played F/A-18 Interceptor on my Amiga, I have been looking for another great mission based arcade style flight sim. Oh, here and there I have found games that were fun, but just not what I was looking for (so what, I'm picky!). Well, this title finally provided what I've been waiting for on a console.

Graphically, the game is good. I'll be honest with you, no the game isn't loaded with stupendous looking scenery. In fact most of the landscapes in the game are fairly bare. But, the the draw distance is very respectable as are the environmental effects. The planes looked good, and the levels had huge expanses that went on for what seemed to be forever at times.

Audio in the game was very well done. The sounds of the planes are realistic, as are the environmental sounds.

Gameplay and control were right on the spot, and where this game shines so brightly. Control of the various planes felt very natural, and each plane handled as you would expect based on the specifics of each craft (ie: bi-plane, single engine fighter jet, twin engine, etc...). For each plane, you need to work out the different skills needed take-off, land, or even prevent going into a stall. Not to mention doing missions that involve threading a course, following a train through a tunnel, or fighting strong winds through a valley. The learning curve wasn't unreasonable for the style of game, but I strongly recommend you play through the training missions. This title proves once again that no matter how good or bad a game my look... a great game to play is a great game to play.

Sky Odyssey is a very respectable and intense arcade flight sim. It is a game I spent hours on, will continue to play, and I highly recommend it to anyone who owns a PS2 as a title that should be in their permanent collection.

(05/2002)