The 1980s helicopter rescue/combat game has been revived with this week’s release of “Choplifter HD” (360, PS3, PC), available as a $15 download.
I somehow forgot about “Choplifter HD,” even though it’s been on my radar since the game was announced. I have fond memories of the original’s simple but addicting action, and was a big fan of the similar “Strike” franchise of chopper games made by Electronic Arts many moons ago.
“Choplifter HD” appears to retain much of the original game’s formula, with tasks that generally center around swooping into an area, blasting all hostiles in sight, and rescuing people using deft piloting skills. The game spans more than 30 missions that sometimes delve into “elements of fantasy,” like having to shake zombies (ugh) off the helicopter to lift off.
You also can select from different choppers with varying weapons, armor and speed capabilities, and completing missions allows you to unlock upgrades. There’s no multiplayer element, sadly. If you happen to purchase the Xbox Live Arcade version you’ll get to enjoy free downloadable content (at some point) that includes additional missions and helicopters, making the $15 price tag a bit more attractive.
So enough about that.
PlayStation 3 owners might be interested to hear that “Gran Turismo 5″ is getting re-released in a deluxe “XL Edition” coming next week. I’m not exactly a hardcore racing fan but I spent many, many hours playing “GT5″ after its launch in 2010 and was impressed by its slick visuals and the enormous amount of content and different racing modes (which include NASCAR, rally racing, a kart mode, etc.).
The $40 XL Edition includes all existing updates/patches on the disc — which have included AI tweaks, additional race events and vehicles — in addition to a voucher good for $20 worth of paid downloadable content. Overall it’s a pretty good deal for one of the best simulation-style racing games available. If you don’t own an Xbox 360 or care for the “Forza” series, then “GT5″ is your best bet.
That’s about it for now. The rest of the month still looks pretty lean for new titles, though Jan. 31 will bring role-playing game “Final Fantasy XIII-2″ and “SoulCalibur V,” the latest installment in the arcade-style fighting franchise.
Meanwhile, I’ll be working through a pile of half-finished games from 2011 before this year’s big releases start to roll out.
Facebook
Google+
Twitter
