Freespace 2 is one of the best space sims out there. Any fans of the X-wing series would enjoy this game greatly
The graphics are spectacular for its era and even today it could stand up to the latest games in stores. Freespace 2 does a great job in making you, the pilot in your fighter a small, insignificant whelp compared to the massive destroyers seen in the game. Some are as long as 6km (3.73 miles). The lighting and detail quality on the ships is also the best of the best for its era that is only matched by the detail on the many lasers and missiles available. One of the highlights of this game is when two or more large ships battle it out. There’s laser and missiles being thrown back and forth but what packs a punch are turbolaser like turrets that shoots a giant constant beam to rip through an enemy ship. The destruction of a giant ship feels nearly cinematic as debris flies everywhere not to mention the giant explosion that cause everything near it to go critical. Sound quality is top notch with great voice acting, engaging “fight” sounds (lasers pewing, missiles exploding).
Freespace 2 has one of the most original and in-depth stories any game has or could offer.
The story is so good that at times you just want to finish a mission just to see what happens next. There are many twists and surprises along the way to keep you on the edge of your seat and help make the game more enjoyable.
There is much variety of combat in this great game. Whether you’re flying through a nebula or an asteroid field, conducting a raid or assaulting a huge destroyer you always feel that you’re doing something new each mission. The main thing I enjoy of this game is that there is always a bigger ship to protect or destroy you and your wingman. There’s always the sense of being part of a bigger objective. This is help achieved by the in depth briefing prior to every mission that informs the player of the importance and the damage it will do to your vile enemies as well as your objectives.
Freespace 2 deserves its place in Gamespot’s Greatest Games of All Time. This is the game that you buy a joystick for. If you’re a space sim fan who hasn’t bought Freespace 2 yet what are you waiting for?