Anecdote
Developed by the German studio HandyGames, Aces of the Luftwaffe Squadron reinvents the vertical scrolling shoot 'em up by adding an unexpected narrative and cooperative dimension. The player takes the controls of Allied fighters engaged against the mysterious Nebelgeschwader squadron, a fictional elite of the Luftwaffe. The approach combines fast arcade action with a cinematic story featuring polished voice acting. The title's defining feature is its local and online cooperative mode for up to four players, each piloting a member of the squadron with their own unique abilities. Chapters unfold across missions of five to ten minutes, making the title perfectly digestible on smartphone. The carefully crafted digital painting art direction evokes classic illustrations from aeronautical adventure stories. The studio HandyGames — owned by THQ Nordic — invested in a cinematic production: painted cutscenes, voice-over narration, orchestral soundtrack. TouchArcade named it Game of the Week upon release. Available on iOS and Android at a very affordable premium price, the title also received an expanded edition on Switch, PC, and consoles. The progressive learning curve allows newcomers to take to the genre without frustration. The spectacular bosses — monstrous bombers, secret superweapons — form the highlights of the adventure. The international shoot 'em up community welcomed the title with enthusiasm. HandyGames has maintained the game through themed expansions and seasonal modes. An excellent alternative to more generic mobile shooters. Aces of the Luftwaffe Squadron embodies the German studio's success in the narrative shoot 'em up segment.
Popularity & reception
Distinctions — TouchArcade Game of the Week (2020) · Expanded edition Switch / PS4 / Xbox / Steam