Aces of the Luftwaffe: Squadron

With support for up to four players, Aces of the Luftwaffe - Squadron is a good pick for those seeking multiplayer shmup action.

Light input lag and lengthy load times aside, Aces of the Luftwaffe: Squadron is an excellent party style shmup the likes of which are very rarely seen. In fact, no other shmup quite like it, in how multiplayer-centric it is, comes to mind. It may look rather simplistic, but it proves to be top notch in its game design, apart from the fact that the game is not quite as enjoyable in solo as it is in multiplayer. For all those out there able to gather three or even just one or two more players for long enough to see the full experience through to the end, however, it turns out to be a memorable piece of software, and an enjoyable experience that, who knows, may bring the band of playmates back together for more beyond the scope of the single adventure.

It’s not a game that is going to be talked about as a Game of the Year contender, but it does have enough in it to provide a few hours of fun for those that fancy a new scrolling shoot ’em up

Proven design principles make Aces of the Luftwaffe: Squadron easy to pick up for first timers and friends roped into multiplayer, but those experienced with scrolling shooters wont find anything new to hold their attention.

If a game’s purpose is to entertain player, then Aces of the Luftwaffe: Squadron is a valuable small game that can made few hours of joy and nostalgia for you. Dodge massive amounts of bullets in challenging air battles and kill all enemies to finally reach some dangerous boss fights.

Aces of the Luftwaffe – Squadron won’t blow you away, but its variety and co-op gameplay will have you coming back to best high scores. HandyGames have made a game that feels like classic arcade gameplay but on modern systems. The achievements keep calling the campaign “Allied campaign”, so I’m hoping there’s DLC in the works for an “Axis campaign”, or something that is added to the game to play more. Aces of the Luftwaffe – Squadron should be in your library.

Aces of the Luftwaffe – Squadron is packed with replay value for the price tag. The progression and level of customization is nice to see combined with the shoot ’em up genre. Though the voice acting leaves something to be desired, it’s enough to help push the story, which is interesting and well handled. Though it’s difficulty may seem frustrating to some, fans of bullet hell games will feel right at home.

Aces Of the Luftwaffe: Squadron does a lot of things right over its short duration. Tight gameplay, small innovations to the shoot 'em up genre and terrific local co-op. Unfortunately, the grind to level up characters and lengthen the playtime turns what was once fun into a tedious and frustrating slog.

All in all, Aces of the Luftwaffe – Squadron is a fun endeavour if a little simplistic at times. It is definitely recommended if you're a fan of shoot 'em up games and are looking at something a bit different.

An entertaining and direct shoot em up, which tries to differentiate itself from the rest of the titles of the genre with its particularities. Although being a mobile port, you certainly notice the seams. Even so, it is ideal to pass the time.