1942: The Pacific Air War
- April 1, 2015
- MicroProse Software, Inc
Get on Steam"1942: The Pacific Air War" is a combat flight simulation game set in the Pacific theater of World War II. Players can choose to fly for either the American or Japanese side, with a variety of aircraft and missions available. The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing players to engage in dogfights, bombing runs, and other aerial combat scenarios.
Reviews
- The game features a variety of planes with well-designed cockpits, including iconic fighters from both the Japanese and American sides.
- Many players appreciate the nostalgic pixelated graphics and unique sound effects, which evoke a sense of charm from the era.
- The flight simulation and gameplay mechanics are considered excellent, with a realistic feel and challenging enemy AI.
- There is no tutorial or clear instructions, making it difficult for players to figure out controls and gameplay mechanics.
- The graphics have not aged well, with many players finding them unplayable compared to modern standards.
- The game suffers from technical issues, including sound problems and compatibility with modern systems, leading to a frustrating experience.
- graphics17 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many users expressing disappointment over the outdated and poor-quality visuals, particularly when compared to modern flight simulators. While some appreciate the nostalgic charm of pixelated graphics from the early 90s, others find them unplayable and in need of significant upgrades to enhance the overall experience. Overall, the consensus suggests that while the gameplay may have potential, the graphics detract significantly from enjoyment.
“I do really like the graphics and the noises in these older games.”
“The graphics were as good as they get then.”
“For the graphics -- which are that lovely mid-90's smear of big textured pixels -- the flight model is surprisingly good, the enemy AI is challenging, and there are many scenarios to choose from.”
“Sadly, the SVGA graphics that I remember have been replaced by some terrible EGA quality graphics that make this game unplayable.”
“I love to revisit old classics and primitive graphics have their charms, but this one has been very poorly re-implemented.”
“I haven't seen graphics this bad since I threw away my Atari.”
- story4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's story revolves around various single missions, including dogfights and ground attacks, as well as a career mode where players create their own pilot and build their reputation. Additionally, players manage carrier operations, directing air patrols and strike groups against enemy forces. However, some users find the controls confusing and the outdated graphics hinder situational awareness during missions.
“In the career pilot mode, you create your character and embark on flight missions, allowing you to build your own legacy in the skies.”
“The carrier battle aspect is thrilling, as you control the carrier and strategically send air patrols and strike groups to engage enemy forces.”
“Each single mission offers a unique experience, from intense dogfights to strategic bombing and ground attacks, immersing you in a rich narrative.”
“The story feels disjointed and lacks depth, making it hard to connect with the characters or the missions.”
“Despite the variety of missions, the narrative fails to engage, leaving players feeling like they're just going through the motions.”
“The overall plot is underdeveloped, and the character progression feels superficial, which detracts from the immersive experience.”
- gameplay2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the flight simulator is highly praised for its excellence, with suggestions that a modernized version by a capable studio could enhance its appeal while preserving its core simulation elements.
“The flight simulator and gameplay are excellent.”
“Pro tip: If a studio (I could see Gaijin doing well with this) picked this up and modernized it while keeping all the gameplay and sim elements, they'd be on to a winner.”
“The gameplay feels outdated and lacks the polish that modern titles offer.”
“There are too many bugs and glitches that disrupt the overall experience.”
“The mechanics are clunky and make it difficult to enjoy the game fully.”
- music2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users have reported significant issues with the music and sound functionality, expressing frustration over their inability to get it to work despite trying various solutions. The suggestion to simply turn off the sound and music has been deemed inadequate and unsatisfactory.
“Could not get sound and music to work no matter what solution I tried.”
“Sorry, but 'turning the sound and music off' is not a solution... that's just absurd.”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game is criticized for its significant stability issues, with users reporting numerous bugs that detract from the overall experience, leading to perceptions of it being a poor value compared to similar offerings on Steam.
“The game is incredibly buggy and feels like a complete rip-off.”
“Constant crashes make it nearly unplayable.”
“I experienced frequent glitches that ruined my gaming experience.”
