Edge of the Chair Gaming
Now, as I am someone who has never played any Ace Combat game, it may seem strange to you that I chose to buy 'The Belkan War', however, the hype got me, and I decided to take the plunge into what is a most enjoyable pool of gaming.
Gameplay
To be entirely honest, during the first time I played the first mission, I felt like throwing the game out of a high window, hopefully hitting a fighter jet on the way. When I finally figured out what I was supposed to do, I found the game to be very, very enjoyable. The first time you take to the skies to participate in a sortie at the 'Round Table', you feel an amazing sense of excitement, you power through the skies, destroying everything in your sights all while shouting; 'YEEEEEEEEEEEE-HAAAAA! TAKE THAT, ****er!'... ahem, or, was that just me?
The wingman system is very well sculpted, the AI is top-notch and you could in some of the early missions, leave Pixy to do most of the work.
Speaking of AI, the enemies you encounter are very intelligent, almost frighteningly so. When you're chasing them through the skies, you feel almost scared, waiting for the HUD to turn red, forcing you to twist, turn and flip to dodge the chasing missile, there are different kinds of enemy squadrons, from the usual Belkan Air Force cannon-fodder, to the elite units, that work brilliantly as a tak and as individuals, it takes effort to take those guys down.
There are three ways to play through this game, as a mercenary, a soldier, or a knight. Mercenaries are reckless, knights are careful, and soldiers strike a balance between the two, the radio conversations, planes you can buy and cutscenes change depending on the way you decide to play the game.
Graphics
Now, I'm not a plane-nut, so I can't vouch for accuracy, but I can say that all the planes look nice. When a missile is fired, the smoke trail looks perfect, which adds to the over-all polished effect to the whole game.
The weather effects are also well worked on, they look realistic, making you feel as if you really are there in the cockpit.
One gripe I do have is that when flying over a town, many of the structures look far too flat when flying close, however, the PS2 handles the game brilliantly.
Sound
The orchestral sounds that follow you are perfect, they are epic and add brilliantly to the atmosphere.
The explosions that follow a salvo of missiles hitting their target is extremely satisfying, bombs sound equally good.
Lifespan Leaves you gagging for more. You can choose to play through again using a different style, but the missions do feel easy, removing a lot of the challenge. All considered, you could get a few playthroughs, if you're dedicated. If you really want to get your money's worth, you'll attempt to get all the planes and medals available, but may people won't have that kind of dedication.
Finally
If you were at all considering this game, then do it. If you have the money and you can find it cheaply, then go on, treat yourself, buddy.