M.A.C.H. Modified Air Combat Heroes

Graphically the game is very well accomplished. The courses are well designed, alternating between long and short races, some requiring more dexterity and agility than others which include longer straights and thus favour the faster aircraft, which portray a good sense of speed, especially when using the turbo, or machpower as it is called in the game. Unfortunately though, despite the greater scope that aircraft offer over more traditional land-based vehicles, there is very little in the way of hidden paths or alternate routes to explore and discover. This is a shame given the obvious advantages that planes have to offer.

Special effects are also well applied, not overburdening the game but becoming evident when, for instance, flying low over water and splashes appear on the screen, or when flying at full speed and air trails appear.

As mentioned, machpower is critical in order to gain top speed. Perversely though, it is also used to barrel roll which is the only way to avoid incoming missiles. This presents a dual problem - firstly the barrel roll is only available when you have a certain level of machpower which proves infuriating as you desperately try to shake a missile only to find that you do not have enough. Secondly, the barrel roll itself rotates the entire screen - a neat effect but in the brief moment it takes to re-accustom yourself to your orientation and direction you often find yourself slamming into the nearest wall. Out of the frying pan and into the fire indeed.

Flying low will refill your machpower gauge but despite its availability and use it is still extremely difficult to gain distance on your opponents, presumably due to rubber-banding keeping them within range at all times. At least this is the case until you unlock the faster aircraft and gain the money to upgrade their speed and agility but by then you will have unlocked a higher tier and so your opponents will all be faster themselves.

Overall, MACH is an accomplished if slightly shallow racer. It's not all blue skies though as at times it can be frustrating but the amount of fun on offer more than makes up for this. If you're after a different type of racer, one based more on arcade elements than simulation, then MACH might be the vapour trail you are looking for.

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