A new take on the classic series that introduces strategic elements and great touch screen controls.
Take the tried and true formula of Arwing aerial dogfighting and memorable characters, throw in solid touch screen controls and some nice strategy elements, and you get Starfox Command.
The story takes place around ten years after Starfox defeated Andross and rid the galaxy of his threat from Venom. However, a new foe has emerged and it is up to Fox to reassemble his comrades and rise up to save the universe once more. Although the story is fairly mediocre, varying plot paths may be chosen throughout the game to change it up, and offers some nice diversity and replay value.
The missions start out with a turn based strategy game in which you, the player, must draw out flight paths for each team member. By doing so, you may engage in dogfights, collect power-ups, and liberate cities. All of the objectives must be done within a set number of turns, although additional turns may be awarded for accomplishing tasks. Some of these can prove to be frustrating at times, but all in all, the difficulty feels right. The battles play out nicely, and break away from the typical "level" based design, and instead allow you to fly freely within the designated battle zone. Battles are won by completing various tasks, but most are won from defeating a specific type of enemy.
The touch screen serves as the sole means for piloting your Arwing, and does so nicely. Any button may be used to fire, and bombs are used by dragging them onto the touch screen map, which allows you to implement surgical strikes anywhere on the battlefield. Barrel rolls are executed by moving the stylus left to right, and u-turns and loops are done by simply touching the appropriate button on the touch screen.
Perhaps the most exciting feature is the ability to play as any of the members of Team Starfox. That's right. Slippy and Falco are yours to control.
Please note that all combat is aerial based, and Fox does not leave his ship as in Starfox Adventures or Assault.
While there are a few flaws in the game, (most notably the lack of mission diversity), Starfox Command proves to be a fun, and original, title for the DS and definitely worth checking out for all fans of the series, and fans of strategy or flying games.