DESCRIPTION

Based on the 1996 blockbuster film that launched Will Smith's acting career into orbit, Independence Day envelops you in an interstellar war against resource hungry alien forces. Taking control of a hotshot fighter pilot and his wingman, Steve Hiller, your objective is to destroy a barrage of alien defense fighters while targeting massive battleships capable of obliterating entire cites. Needless to say, this won't be a stroll in the park.

As a flight combat simulation, Independence Day features a wide variety of mission objectives and exotic locations. Because the alien forces have flocked to the Grand Canyon, you'll have to destroy four generators that supply power to the City Destroyer and incapacitate the massive spaceship. The New York mission will have you abolishing satellite linkups used by the aliens as a means of communication. Of course, you'll have to eliminate the primary spaceship in that area.

At certain times, funnel-like warpgates appear near or around the City Destroyer. By maneuvering your plane into the gate, you're treated to one of three bonus levels: Cape Canaveral, the Nakhoda Sub Base, or the Antarctic. Your mission is to destroy a shield generator within a certain time period; if you're tardy, another warpgate will appear and your mission will be over.

Located throughout each level are pickup items that supply you with bonus aircraft and weapons. Bonus planes act as extra lives; if you're shot down in the line of duty, you're given a second chance with another aircraft. Your default fighter plane is an F/A 18 Hornet with devastating AIM-120 Amraam missiles. Other weapons include rearm missiles, ray guns that emit from your aircraft for a limited period of time, "Tumblers" that send the opposition spiraling, and the stalling EPM missiles. There are also health pickups and time extensions at your disposal.

Independence Day also features multi-player options including the Head to Head and Link Cable modes. The Head to Head mode is a split-screen deathmatch with a set kill limit; whoever reaches that limit first claims victory. For those with the right cords and two consoles, the Link Cable mode is exactly like Head to Head only the action is carried out on two television sets.

Think you've got what it takes to destroy an army of alien forces and save the world? Strap on your seatbelt and get ready for the fireworks in Independence Day! ~ Matthew House, All Game Guide