Jane's Longbow 2
| Company type | Video game developer |
|---|---|
| Industry | Video games |
Key people | Andy Hollis (executive producer) |
| Products | Jane's AH-64D Longbow, Longbow 2 |
| Parent | Electronic Arts |
Longbow 2 serves as the follow-up to Jane's AH-64D Longbow, part of the Jane's Combat Simulations series. Created by Origin Systems under the guidance of executive producer Andy Hollis, it was launched by Electronic Arts on November 13, 1997.
Gameplay
In this PC-based flight simulator, players assume the role of a pilot operating an AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopter. The game incorporates a dynamic campaign system that automatically generates demanding missions. Players also have the ability to lead other aircraft such as OH-58 Kiowa reconnaissance helicopters and UH-60 Black Hawk transport choppers. The main storyline revolves around a hypothetical war scenario where Iranian forces invade Azerbaijan during the early to mid-1990s, portraying a conflict between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Longbow Anthology
The 1998 release titled Longbow Anthology bundles together Jane's AH-64D Longbow, its expansion Flash Point: Korea (Longbow Gold), and Longbow 2 into a single collection featuring a condensed manual. Each title remains distinct but is updated to their most current versions.
Reception
Within the United States, Longbow 2 sold 49,397 units in 1997 and accumulated sales of 99,430 copies generating $3.89 million by October 1999. Across the entire Longbow series—including original releases and compilations—more than 1.2 million copies were distributed.
The simulation received acclaim for its authenticity and pioneering features. Kenji Takeda from PC Gaming World rated it 9.5 out of 10, while Robin G. Kim of Computer Gaming World described it as "a benchmark sim far beyond its award-winning predecessor." Both Allgame and Computer Gaming World awarded it perfect ratings.
The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated the title for "PC Simulation Game of the Year," though it was ultimately bested by Microsoft Flight Simulator 98. Despite this, it secured multiple awards for best flight simulation in 1997 from publications including Computer Games Strategy Plus, Computer Gaming World, GameSpot, CNET Gamecenter, and PC Gamer US. Additionally, it was a finalist for overall game of the year honors from Computer Games Strategy Plus.
In 1998, PC Gamer ranked it as the 12th greatest computer game ever released, praising its blend of realism with engaging gameplay, as well as its campaign design and multiplayer capabilities.