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F-117A Nighthawk Stealth Fighter 2.0

From Alfawiki
F-117A Nighthawk Stealth Fighter 2.0
Company typeVideo game
IndustryVideo games
PredecessorF-19 Stealth Fighter
Founded1991
FounderMicroProse
Headquarters
United States
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
Jeff Briggs (composer)
ProductsCombat flight simulator video game
OwnerTommo (since 2015)
ParentMicroProse

F-117A Nighthawk Stealth Fighter 2.0 is a 1991 remake of the Cold War-era combat flight simulator F-19 Stealth Fighter, originally released between 1988 and 1990 by MicroProse. This title itself was a reimagining of the 1987 game Project Stealth Fighter. The PC edition was enhanced with an updated aircraft model following the declassification of the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk, incorporating 256-color VGA visuals in place of the initial 16-color EGA graphics, along with various other improvements.

Gameplay

In the original release, the F-19 was equipped with four weapon bays, which exceeded the actual stealth fighter’s armament capacity. The sequel provides players with the option to select either a "realistic" configuration featuring two weapon bays or a version maintaining the original four bays; both versions resemble the F-117 in the PC iteration.

The game introduces new operational zones such as Cuba and scenarios based on Operation Desert Storm, reflecting contemporary geopolitical shifts. Missions encompass primary and secondary objectives that include reconnaissance photography and bombing runs. A sophisticated flight plan editor enables users to modify waypoints to avoid detection by pulse and Doppler radar systems, as preset routes may leave the aircraft vulnerable. Each mission starts and concludes at designated airbases, and a "time compression" function accelerates gameplay.

Improved 3D graphics with 256-color support enhance target identification through remote camera angles and multiple viewpoints, including enemy fighter perspectives. The gameplay focuses on low-altitude flying predominantly during nighttime, consistent with stealth operation tactics; however, a cheat option permits daytime mission play.

Mission scoring rewards successful completion, evading radar and visual detection, and undetected entry and exit from hostile airspace. The accompanying manual offers comprehensive instructions on radar evasion techniques, essential for mission success.

Release

Initially released for PC DOS in 1991, this title was subsequently ported to Amiga, Macintosh, and PC-98 platforms between 1993 and 1994. Its refined 3D engine was also utilized in the 1992 game Task Force 1942: Surface Naval Action in the Pacific.

In 2015, Tommo acquired publishing rights and reissued the game digitally under its Retroism label. Prior to this, it was made available on Steam in October 2014 through Retroism’s development efforts and publication by Nightdive Studios.

Reception

Computer Gaming World (1991) commended F-117A as an engaging, demanding, and instructive simulation experience. A 1992 review survey awarded it four out of five stars within the modern wargame category, with a subsequent evaluation in 1994 rating it slightly above three stars. The game received a 93% score from Computer and Video Games and a 92% rating from Amiga Format. Although some critiques were less favorable, most reviews rated it above 80%.

External links

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