Take to the skies with Sid Meier’s Ace Patrol

Sid Meiers Ace Patrol (iPhone screenshot 001)

One of the world’s most successful and critically acclaimed interactive entertainment designers, Sid Meier has long become a household name in the world of gaming. A long list of Sid Meier-branded games includes such hit titles as Pirates, Silent Service, Railroad Tycoon and Civilization, to name but a few. Some of the games Sid designed have been adapted for Apple’s iOS devices, like Civilization Revolution (free, $2.99).

The latest title, Sid Meier’s Ace Patrol, has just landed on the App Store. This turn-based flight combat simulator doesn’t just carry Sid’s stamp of approval, the legendary designer actually conceived and designed the game himself.

Sid Meier’s Ace Patrol is exclusive to Apple’s iOS devices and publisher 2K Games released it as a free to play download with in-app purchases…

The plot involves some of the most famous fighter planes of the World War I. Yes, there are dogfights and you’ll get to roll, slip and loop to get the drop on enemy aces.

But Sid Meier’s Ace Patrol also includes a strong managerial aspect to it as you’ll get to upgrade planes, learn new skills, earn promotions and equipment upgrades and more.

Sid Meiers Ace Patrol (iPhone screenshot 002)

Sid Meiers Ace Patrol (iPhone screenshot 003)

Here’s the launch trailer.

The game packs in 120 missions, 30 authentic aircraft, tilt/motion camera controls, unlockable new aces with special skill sets and multiplayer missions with leaderboards through Game Center.

TouchArcade spent some time playing the game, here’s their hands-on video.

It doesn’t look like you’ll need to spend cash to get anywhere as in-app purchases include non-essential items such as new skins, new fighters, field hospital  diplomatic mission, a get-out-of-jail card and some such. However, know that the free download includes only the first of the four major campaigns available.

The game requires iOS 5.1 or later and is compatible with the iPhone 4 or later and all iPads except for the original model. The iPhone 5’s taller screen is supported as well.

Sid Meier’s Ace Patrol is a great flight simulator that should especially appeal to the fans of turn-based strategy games.

I urge everyone to download it now and give it a try.