August 20 has delivered a diverse spread of gaming history, spanning from World War II air combat sims to tactical counter-terrorist shooters and reimagined arcade classics. Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe, Rainbow Six 3: Black Arrow and Galaga Legions all launched on this date, each offering a different flavour of challenge for players across generations.
Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe (PC) 1991
At A Glance
Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe arrived on Australian PCs in 1991, offering a World War II flight simulator with a twist of historical flair. Players took the controls of German aircraft across meticulously recreated European theatres, tackling both air and ground targets. For Aussie pilots of the pixel skies, it was a chance to experience the thrill of dogfighting while navigating complex mission planning, all with a level of realism that felt ahead of its time.
Gameplay Gist
In Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe, gameplay balanced tactical planning with intense aerial combat. Pilots managed fuel, ammunition, and squad formations while facing enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire. Missions varied from bombing runs to intercepting convoys, each demanding different strategies. The game’s flight physics and aircraft variety pushed players to adapt constantly, making skillful piloting and quick reflexes essential for survival.
Behind The Scenes Trivia
- The game was developed by Totally Games, known for their dedication to realistic flight simulation.
- Aircraft were modelled with attention to historical detail, including armament and performance characteristics.
- Mission briefings included authentic maps and intelligence reports, enhancing immersion.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- Wide range of Luftwaffe aircraft with distinct handling and capabilities
- Mission editor allowed custom scenarios and challenges
- Tactical squadron management for coordinated attacks
- Detailed damage modelling affecting aircraft performance and handling
Controversies
Some critics argued that Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe glorified Axis military power. Others countered that the game was strictly historical and educational, focusing on simulation rather than ideology.
Kinda Similar
Fighter Ace, IL-2 Sturmovik, Aces of the Pacific
Where To Play It Today
Search for Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe on eBay Australia
Rainbow Six 3: Black Arrow (XB) 2003
At A Glance
Rainbow Six 3: Black Arrow stormed onto Xbox consoles in Australia in 2003, delivering high-stakes tactical action rooted in realistic counter-terrorism operations. Players led elite Rainbow squads through tense, carefully choreographed missions across international locations. For Aussie gamers, it offered a blend of strategic planning and heart-pounding execution, emphasizing teamwork, precision, and patience over mindless shooting.
Gameplay Gist
In Rainbow Six 3: Black Arrow, players planned and executed missions with multiple approaches, coordinating their squad’s movements, entry points, and target priorities. The game’s realistic combat meant that a single mistake could jeopardize an entire mission. Stealth, breaching tactics, and effective gadget use were rewarded, while AI enemies reacted intelligently to player decisions. Multiplayer added cooperative and competitive dimensions, expanding the tactical challenge.
Behind The Scenes Trivia
- Developed by Ubisoft Montreal, the team worked closely with counter-terrorism experts to ensure realistic mechanics.
- Black Arrow included new gadgets, weapons, and maps not present in previous Rainbow Six titles.
- The game’s AI was notably advanced for its time, responding dynamically to player strategies.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- Squad command system allowed coordinated tactical maneuvers
- Variety of mission types including hostage rescue, bomb defusal, and assassination
- Realistic ballistics and enemy AI behaviour
- Multiplayer cooperative missions enhanced strategic depth
Controversies
Some controversy arose over the game’s violent depiction of terrorism and counter-terrorism operations. Critics debated whether it glamorised lethal tactics, though Ubisoft emphasized the tactical and strategic focus rather than gratuitous violence.
Kinda Similar
SWAT 4, Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell, SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs
Where To Play It Today
Search for Rainbow Six 3: Black Arrow on eBay Australia
Galaga Legions (X360) 2008
At A Glance
Galaga Legions launched on Xbox 360 in Australia in 2008, reimagining the classic 1981 arcade shooter with a modern twist. Swarms of alien enemies and dazzling visual effects elevated the intensity, while retaining the addictive “shoot ’em up” gameplay that made Galaga a household name. Aussie players were treated to fast-paced action that demanded reflexes, strategy, and a keen eye for patterns as enemies moved in complex formations.
Gameplay Gist
In Galaga Legions, players commanded a nimble starship, facing waves of enemy ships in ever-changing formations. Unlike the original, enemies dynamically adapted, requiring quick decision-making and careful positioning. Power-ups enhanced firepower, and players could chain combos for higher scores. The game introduced branching paths and challenge modes that rewarded risk-taking and precision, giving both newcomers and veterans a fresh perspective on the classic shooter formula.
Behind The Scenes Trivia
- Developed by Namco Bandai Games, it was part of a series of modernised arcade revivals for Xbox Live Arcade.
- The game’s director sought to maintain classic Galaga charm while introducing contemporary design sensibilities.
- Enemy formations were algorithmically generated to offer unique patterns in every playthrough.
Connoisseur Cheat Sheet
- Dynamic enemy AI that adapts to player tactics
- Chain combo system rewarding precise targeting
- Multiple ship types and power-ups for varied playstyles
- Challenge modes and branching paths for replayability
Controversies
Some purists felt that Galaga Legions strayed too far from the original, arguing that the added visual effects and dynamic formations distracted from the simplicity of classic arcade gameplay. However, the modern take was generally praised for reviving the franchise.
Kinda Similar
Space Invaders Extreme, Geometry Wars, Gradius V
Where To Play It Today
Search for Galaga Legions on eBay Australia
