Addictive...

The only problem with this game is that I can't quit playing! I have been through most of the levels, but find myself going back to play earlier levels with different ships, trying to improve my rank.

Like many shooter games, this one consists of various "missions". Complete one, go on to the next. But there is a big difference - Depending on how you perform, you can get a Bronze, Silver, of Gold medal. As you accumulate medals, you can unlock secret levels and additional options. So the better you do in a mission, the more there is to play in the game. There are also hidden bonuses, such as better weapons, which you can pick up and retain for the next levels. My favorite are the cluster missiles, which zero-in on enemy targets.

Game play is pretty simple, especially with a good joystick with multiple buttons. I use the Microsoft Sidewinder Force Feedback (which IS supported in the game) and love it! The selection of spacecraft for you to fly is nice, although earlier levels don't allow you to deviate from the selected ship. This adds to the replay value of the game, since you can play the same levels with different ships, making strategy completely different.

Graphics are fantastic, especially if you have a good video card that will support the higher resolutions. My Creative Labs TNT2 card (32MB of memory) handles the graphics really well, with no visual "stutters". The sound is excellent, with some good comments by the rest of the squadron. Sometimes it's fun to shoot at one of your own team members, just to hear "Check your fire!" or "Skywalker, What are you doing?!"

I highly recommend this game. I also recommend checking out some of the game sites on the internet to get the cheat codes, as it can be a little difficult at first. Nice thing about the cheat codes, you can load specific codes for specific things, like unlimited power-ups or unlimited ships. My favorite is the one that lets you play as an AT-AT, walking on the surface of the planet and shooting away. Not the way to win the game, but a great diversion when you want something different.