Reviewed
02.15.2000
Publisher
Koei
Developer
Koei
Format
8
Megabit
Origin
Import/Domestic
Available
1993
(USA)
Exclusive
No
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
2D
View
Menu/Interactive
Genre
Business/Sim
Players
1-4
Options
6
Button
Battery
Requires
n/a
Importable
n/a |
INTRO:
> When news came out that Koei was making an airline business simulator,
I was ecstatic. I love airplanes, business, and simulations.
As far as I was concerned, the combination of these features produced a
match made in heaven. Here are some of the features that made this
sim for me. You control everything from routes, to customer service,
to investment, to advertising (whew). The level of detail doesn't
bog you down either. The main objectives of the game are centered
around flying profitable routes with full jets and interconnecting all
22 cities. This is my kind of simulation.
GRAPHICS:
> Most of the graphics are okay, but could have been a little more
detailed in some areas (like the aircraft pictures). The animations
are a bit cheesy, but that's okay as well. The meat of this genre
isn't graphics, it's realism and fun. You'll see a lot of the world map
as it's used to pick routes, display routes, build property, and more.
Easy to read graphs and menus keep you abreast of your situation at all
times. Like most Koei simulation games, the
graphics simply get the job done without much flare.
CONTROL:
> Considering the genre, the control scheme in Aerobiz works just
fine. Everything is either menu or D-pad driven with yes and
no buttons. Even though you can speed up a little from slug (standard
speed), I do wish there was a way to make messages scroll even quicker.
Since they're well laid out, getting around in the menus is basically self
explanatory.
> When opening new routes you must choose the type and number of aircraft,
number of flights, and price. You also need to negotiate slots, buy
property, invest, set service levels, and conduct board meetings.
Everything is turn based so you can take as much time as you need.
Becoming the number one airline takes time, but practice makes perfect...
SOUND:
> The music is adequate and consists of various jingles associated
with country you happen to be in. The Sound effects aren't numerous,
but they're also not needed much. Not much else to say except the
sound will not turn you off, but it could help keep your mind off the fact
that you may be losing money.
FUN:
> Aerobiz is very fun, especially for sim-buffs. Lots of planes
to choose from and 22 cities to connect with fierce competition from the
computer players. You always play with 4 airlines -- you and your
friends have to decide how many will be human. There are two scenarios
to choose from. Each highlights a certain period in airline history.
I've played and beat this game over and over and it never gets old...
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