Ex's 2016 beat list:

49. Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy|3DS|2011|flight sim|3h 42m|7/10
Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy is a 3DS remake of Ace Combat 2. Ace Combat is the best when it comes to finding the perfect balance between hardcore simulation and quick paced arcade action. ACAHL continues this series style, although this 3DS entry is much easier than prior entries. This is mostly because of the style maneuver system, allowing skillful use of button macros to perform complex flight maneuvers. Due to the limited controls of the 3DS, the developers chose this shortcut method to allow the player to perform such tactics. What this means is, that shaking a locked missile, or capturing a bogey's six, is now done with ease, rather than requiring actual skill.

ACAHL may be easier than other entries, but it still holds its own when it comes to great graphics, solid voice acting, blistering sound effects, and sumptuous music. The music especially is grand, pulling choice tracks from prior Ace Combat games. Graphically speaking, for being a first gen 3DS title, you'll likely be impressed. The developers used convincing models for such planes as a Boeing F-15SE Silent Eagle or Sukhoi PAK FA. These models combined with spectacular explosions and real world satellite imagery mapped over varying topography is thoroughly convincing. Now take all that and intersperse the 3DS' trademark 3D effect, and you're in for a visual feast.


So what is disappointing then? Well, the plot is bare bones and rather boring. Your wingmen have practically zero personality or involvement in the plot. The difficulty being so low, combined with short missions, means you'll have this game beaten in less than 4 hours on normal difficulty. Outside the 3D special effects and easy maneuver system, ACAHL doesn't offer any new innovations over prior entries. That said, ACAHL would be a great "my first Ace Combat" because of its simplicity, ease, and brevity. For us long term AA fans though, ACAHL is just a pleasantly portable snack.
