I love pixel-style games. Maybe it’s because I’m old, or just for the fact that I grew up with them. I feel that I appreciate more pixel art than 3D or more realistic graphics. I also love games that have helicopters and explosions in them, and I must say that I was surprised by Dustoff Heli Rescue 2. It blends those two elements that I like in a package that does things in a different way that you would not expect.
For starters, Dustoff looks like a shmup (Shoot ’em up), and while it has some elements, this game is more oriented to a objective-based game play. In each of the missions, you have a specific objective, either searching for survivors and transporting them to a safe location, or to eliminate enemy units. The missions are varied, so there is not a dull moment. The controls are really tight, and the simple control scheme is good. It has 2 buttons for going left and right, and the stick to turn your helicopter when you are flying backwards (it may happen). Even so, they work like they should and don’t take away the fun experience. The challenge that the game offers is enough to keep you entertained and coming back for more.
In each mission, beside the objective, you are running against the clock (so to speak) because each time you finish a mission, you are graded based on your performance. You are given stars and coins. Three stars is the highest score, and stars are needed to unlock the following missions. Trying to get the job done and well is a must. Coins are needed to purchase weapons (since your heli doesn’t have them by default) and to restore health and ammo on helipads. Helipads are scattered in every mission and are a godsend, since in most of them, you are under enemy fire It can give you the much needed help when there are lots of enemies to fight against.
There are also dog tags hidden in every level. These are used to purchase special helicopters with better stats. They will help make the missions easier (there is even a UFO) and look awesome. Regarding the music for the game, it is really good and doesn’t overstay its welcome. I really like it, and the sounds are well made. The difficulty level is well-balanced, and it will take planning ahead in order to overcome the obstacles, meaning that you will have to replay previous stages to rack up on coins to spend on the helipads to restore health and ammo.
Bottom Line: Dustoff Heli Rescue 2 is a fun game. It made a smooth transition from mobile to console, with varied objectives in every mission and collectibles. With plenty of replay value, you get a lot of bangs (wink) for your buck. I was sincerely impressed in how simple and fun the game is. I definitely recommend it to any gamer on a budget, looking for a good game to pass the time. Get to da choppa!!