Ace Combat 2: Gameplay, Cheats, Easter Eggs, and More

Ace Combat 2, released in 1997 for the PlayStation 1, is a combat flight simulation game developed by Namco. As the sequel to the original Ace Combat, the game builds upon the features and gameplay mechanics of its predecessor, offering an immersive experience to players. In this extensive review, we’ll delve into the game’s levels, weapons, gameplay, story modes, and arcade modes. We’ll also discuss the known cheats, Easter eggs, voice actors, development time, soundtrack, and existing reviews from various sources. Let’s take off and explore the world of Ace Combat 2.

Ace Combat 2: Gameplay and Game Modes

Ace Combat 2 offers a diverse range of gameplay features, providing both story and arcade modes for players to enjoy. In the story mode, players assume the role of a fighter pilot, engaging in various missions with unique objectives. This mode presents a narrative-driven experience, allowing players to follow a plot that unfolds as they progress through the game.

On the other hand, the arcade mode offers a more casual experience, focusing on quick, action-packed missions that can be completed in a shorter amount of time. This mode is ideal for players who prefer a more fast-paced experience or are looking for a quick gaming session.

The game consists of 30 missions, each with its own challenges and objectives. Players can choose from a wide array of aircraft, each with different attributes and weapon capabilities. As players progress through the game, they can unlock more advanced aircraft and weapon upgrades.

Ace Combat 2: Levels and Weapons

Ace Combat 2 features a diverse range of levels, taking players to various locations around the globe. Each level has its unique terrain, weather conditions, and enemy forces, which add to the overall challenge and excitement of the game.

The game boasts a broad selection of weapons for players to utilize, including missiles, machine guns, and bombs. Players can customize their aircraft loadouts to suit their playstyle and the requirements of each mission. Furthermore, some weapons are better suited to specific situations or enemy types, which adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Ace Combat 2: Missions

Here’s a breakdown of all the missions in the game:

1. Gambit: Intercept and destroy enemy bombers.
2. Easy Money: Eliminate the enemy’s ground forces and protect the troops.
3. City on Fire: Defend the city from an air raid.
4. Tin Castle/Opera House: Destroy the enemy’s radar network or airbase depending on the player’s choice.
5. Greased Lightning: Destroy an enemy transport aircraft.
6. Midnight Assassin: Carry out a raid on an enemy airbase.
7. Rising High: Engage and destroy enemy bombers.
8. Cuckoo’s Nest: Destroy the enemy’s airborne fortress.
9. Groupies: Provide air support for an allied fleet.
10. Seagull: Destroy the enemy’s radar jamming aircraft.
11. One Night Stand: Attack an enemy base.
12. Power Play: Destroy the enemy’s power plant.
13. Alphaville: Carry out an attack on an enemy airbase.
14. Dark Star: Intercept and destroy an enemy stealth bomber.
15. St. Elmo’s Fire: Engage in a night battle against the elite air squadron.
16. Visiting Hours: Attack the enemy’s headquarters.
17. Juggernaut: Destroy the enemy’s main fleet.
18. Sentinel: Defend an allied base from an air raid.
19. Bellissima: Prevent the enemy from launching a missile attack.
20. Deep Strike: Penetrate enemy territory and destroy their secret weapon.
21. Sledgehammer: Eliminate the enemy’s missile silos.
22. Final Countdown: Destroy the enemy’s missile launch facility.
23. Dead End: Shoot down an enemy transport aircraft.
24. Electrosphere: Engage and destroy an enemy prototype aircraft.
25. Bug Hunt: Shoot down an enemy ace pilot.
26. Cavalry: Protect allied transport aircraft from enemy fighters.
27. Soldier of Fortune: Engage and destroy the enemy’s elite air squadron.
28. Megafloat: Defend an floating base from enemy attack.
29. Sunburst: Destroy the enemy’s solar power generator.
30. Kingpin: Carry out a final assault on the enemy’s last stronghold.

Cheats and Easter Eggs

Ace Combat 2 is known for its variety of cheats and Easter eggs, which provide players with additional gameplay features and secrets to uncover. Here are some of the well-known cheats for the game:

• Invincibility: Press and hold L1, then press Up, Left, Down, Right, R1, R2, L2, Select, Start during gameplay.
• Infinite Missiles: Press and hold L1, then press Left, Up, Right, Down, R1, R2, L2, Select, Start during gameplay.
• Bonus Aircraft: Complete all 30 missions with an A or S rank to unlock the XFA-27 aircraft.

In addition to cheats, Ace Combat 2 also contains several Easter eggs for players to discover. For instance, the game features hidden “Ace” pilots, who can be found and engaged in combat throughout various missions. Defeating these pilots unlocks special aircraft paint schemes for the player to use.

Voice Actors, Development, and Soundtrack

The voice actors in Ace Combat 2 play a significant role in immersing players in the game’s narrative. While specific information about the voice actors remains limited, their performances contribute to the game’s overall atmosphere and storytelling. As for the development of Ace Combat 2, details about the development time are scarce. However, the game was released approximately two years after the original Ace Combat, indicating a likely development period of one to two years. The development team at Namco focused on refining the gameplay mechanics and graphics, which resulted in a more polished and immersive experience compared to its predecessor.

The soundtrack of Ace Combat 2, composed by Kohta Takahashi, plays a significant role in creating the game’s atmosphere. The music features a mix of orchestral, electronic, and rock elements, which complement the intense aerial combat and high-speed action.

Existing Reviews and Ratings

Ace Combat 2 received generally positive reviews from various sources upon its release. Critics praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and soundtrack, which contributed to its overall success. Here is a bullet list of some known ratings and summary quotes for the PlayStation version:

• GameSpot: 8.2/10 – “Ace Combat 2 is an improvement in nearly every area over its predecessor.” [1]
• IGN: 8/10 – “With improved graphics and sound, Ace Combat 2 is a worthy sequel that delivers intense aerial combat.” [2]
• Electronic Gaming Monthly: 8.125/10 – “Ace Combat 2’s fast-paced gameplay and impressive graphics make it one of the best flight combat games on the PlayStation.” [3]

Average Completion Time

The average completion time for Ace Combat 2 varies depending on a player’s skill level and dedication to completing all missions and unlocking additional content. However, the main story mode can typically be completed in approximately 8-10 hours. Players seeking to achieve higher ranks on all missions, unlock bonus aircraft, and discover all Easter eggs can expect to spend significantly more time with the game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ace Combat 2 stands as a memorable and engaging combat flight simulation game for the PlayStation 1. The game’s development, voice acting, and soundtrack further contribute to the immersive experience, making it a worthy sequel to the original Ace Combat. Existing reviews and ratings from various sources further attest to its quality, making it a classic title in the PlayStation library.

References:

[1] GameSpot review: //www.gamespot.com/reviews/ace-combat-2-review/1900-2547807/ [2] IGN review: //www.ign.com/articles/1997/08/06/ace-combat-2 [3] Electronic Gaming Monthly, Issue 98, September 1997