HAWX 2 8-Bit browser game is 1942 HD Remix

While flight sims and dogfight combat games are something of a niche market, free browser based shoot em ups are beloved by every gamer. Good news then, as Ubisoft has released an awesome 8-bit SHMUP reminiscent of the classic 1942.

Above: Danger Zoooooooone

The top down shooter harkens back to a more innocent time, when you could just have fun blasting away at endless planes and not have to bark orders into some newfangled headset. Despite its old school origins though, the game does have some modern additions, like an auto-fire option and *scoff*, a health bar. While the purist in me turns his nose up at such a casual concession, remember this is a promotional game; Ubisoft would rather you have fun with it.

There also appears to be some exclusive H.A.W.X. 2 unlockable content tied to the game. The "Ghost" Pack includes:

    * The MIRAGE 2000-5
    * The MIRAGE 2000-5 Ghost Skin
    * The Ghost Support Weapon Pack for MIRAGE 2000-5

I am assuming the MIRAGE 2000-5 is a plane, which seems like a pretty sweet piece of free content. You'll have to sign up and register with Ubisoft's site to get it, but if you're planning on grabbing H.A.W.X. 2, it's a no brainer.

Above: CheatPlanet says: Avoid the bullets to not die

Quick impressions say you should opt for the spread gun and try and avoid picking the super fast plane unless you're hardcore, as it simply doesn't have the necessary firepower without upgrades. There's also an unlockable plane called the MFI you can score, though I'm too busy working to get it, you lazy bums.

Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X. 2 hits stores next week, S.E.P.T.E.M.B.E.R. 7th.

Sep 3, 2010