Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge 2003

Is it still worth playing?

Nathan Zachary, leader of the Fortune Hunters air pirates, sets out to avenge the death of his friend, in this arcade flight game from FASA Studio for the Xbox. It is set in an alternate 1930s where planes and zeppelins are the main means of transport. Physics are relaxed, controls simplified and takeoffs and landings fully automated, because it was built around an arcade design that is easy to learn and focuses on action. There are over twelve playable fighters, including planes downloaded over Xbox Live, each with its own ratings for speed, maneuverability and armor and a distinct weapons layout. The missions are more open ended than in the PC game, with less plane customization. Battles can involve twenty or more planes and airships, and you can land at set spots to man gun turrets and flak cannons on foot. Simple controls still put you straight into the dogfight.