Today's game on display from our physical collection is Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy+ for the Nintendo 3DS!
The Ace Combat: Assault Horizon sub-series was a bit different from standard Ace Combat titles. While the mainline games take place within a fictional world, Assault Horizon was set in our "real world." With slightly altered gameplay that focused more on action set pieces and additional aerial vehicles to pilot—such as helicopters—the title didn't fully feel like a traditional entry in the beloved series. Although it did have a follow-up novel to continue the story, there was actually only a single video game entry in this style: Ace Combat: Assault Horizon for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. As for the second game that shared the sub-title—and the focus of today's article? It isn't actually an Assault Horizon game at all.
Remaking a Classic on the 3DS
Despite what its name suggests, Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy (and its update, Legacy+) are actually remakes of the classic Ace Combat 2! Assault Horizon Legacy was the original release, while Legacy+ was an updated version for the New Nintendo 3DS that made use of the C-Stick and the additional L and R shoulder buttons. This is the version I personally made a point to track down after purchasing a New 3DS and going on a hunt to collect entries from the Ace Combat series.
For both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike, this was a hidden, "must-have" gem for the Nintendo 3DS. It flew under the radar for most, and its Assault Horizon branding certainly didn't do it any favors. As a remake of Ace Combat 2, it features the same solid fighter jet gameplay with challenging missions, an addictive gameplay loop that keeps you coming back for more, and an engaging story you can't help but want to see through to the end. Of course, newer entries are a bit more beginner-friendly, but Assault Horizon Legacy did include new mechanics that simplified the controls and assisted players during dogfights.
Sadly, the game is pretty short, but there are plenty of other Ace Combat titles to jump into for those who wish to continue the adventure.
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