«F-16 Falcon Strike» is updated to version 1.1 | Download

October 29, 2024 • Updated: Apr 03, 2025 - 09:07 PM

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Improvements focused on gameplay and performance are what we get in version 1.1 of «F-16 Falcon Strike», an air combat flight simulator for Atari XL/XE computers.

Developed by Jarosław "R0e0endeR" Wosik (Poland), this title is the first of its kind for the Atari 8-bit in over 35 years and was recognized with a well-deserved fourth place in the recent ABBUC 2024 competition.

Inspired by classic simulation titles such as «F-15 Strike Eagle» and «Tomahawk», «F-16 Falcon Strikeb uses “wireframe” graphics to depict enemy aircraft, ground facilities, and other elements, delivering a remarkable three-dimensional experience for the Atari 8-bit.

Among the various improvements in the game update are:

HUD and MFD Optimization: The air-to-air aiming circle resolution and MFD refresh rate have been optimized to provide a smoother visual experience.
Sound fixes: Cannon and explosion sounds can now be played simultaneously without interruption, and an option to mute the sound after the music has been added following a community request.
Clarity in projectiles and explosions: Missiles are now displayed with distinct symbols, and the duration of explosions has been increased, making combat more visually striking.
Increased speed on land: The maximum speed allowed on the ground has been increased, minimizing accidental damage when moving.
Campaign logic adjustments: If the player lands without completing a mission, they can now try it again.
3D cropping range adjusted: The runway no longer disappears during takeoff.

In addition, Wosik has released an experimental version of the game designed for Rapidus users, the powerful accelerator card developed by Michał "Pasiu" Pasiecznik. Thanks to this high-speed hardware, F-16 Falcon Strike runs all 3D models with the highest level of detail and offers a higher rate of cannon fire.

As we have previously reviewed on Atariteca, «F-16 Falcon Strike» puts players in the role of a Polish Air Force pilot taking part in the "Królewiec Campaign"; a fictional story in which he defends European borders against aggression from the Belarusian and Russian Federations.

With a realistic and strategic approach, the game features 15 missions ranging from dogfights to ground support missions. Players can choose from a wide array of weapons, including AIM-9 Sidewinder guided missiles and MK-84 bombs, introducing a layer of strategy and realism rarely seen on Atari home systems.

F-16 Falcon Strike for Atari 8-bit computers - ver 1.1

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With information from AtariOnline