We are giving five readers a chance to win the copy of the game! For more information, click here!
There is a lot less focus on flight simulators in gaming today than there has been in the past. This has opened up the door for Indie developers to create some appealing games to fans of the genre. Pixelbit have done just this with their latest Xbox 360 Indie title, Helicopter Challenge.
The game is set in a house, where the player controls an R.C. helicopter through a wide range of household environments, including a bedroom, attic and kitchen. Initially, players can choose from two helicopters, with further ones unlockable, including an Apache! Each chopper has unique attributes, making them better at different skills, for example speed or handling.
Players must complete a series of challenges, ranging from flying through hoops and stars, to landing on platforms and shooting towards targets, all against the clock. There are thirty levels in the game, and player performance is graded with trophies (up to gold). Each level also contains collectable bonus letters, which when obtained unlock secret stages. These features add to the challenge, and extend the gameplay for those who found the main tasks to be a breeze.
As for the controls, they are cleverly designed. There are four presets to choose from, but using the default works absolutely great. The dual analogue controls system is relatively easy to use, allowing players to control both direction and altitude simultaneously. If it all sounds very complicated, don’t fret! There is a helpful tutorial level to get players up to speed with the controls.
There is no doubt that Helicopter Challenge looks fantastic for an indie game. The textured environments are great, and the cell shaded graphics look fantastic. As for the music, it’s nothing special but it does provide some nice ambience in the background.
There’s very little bad to say about the game. It’s a shame there is no featured multiplayer or even leaderboards, but other than that players will really get their money’s worth with the title. It’s a really good chopper simulator. The gameplay is smooth, and is simple to play, but difficult to master. There are several hours of gameplay for those willing to fully complete all the challenges and obtain the unlockables, making it a very worthy purchase at just 80 Microsoft Points.
Rating: 
I remember when I tried the trial of the game out I wanted to purchase it immediately.
Great Review Guys!
Looks like a fun indie game. Thanks for the contest.
This sounds like an interesting and fun game. Thanks for the review and the giveaway!
i thought the trial was LOTS of fun! i wish i had some MSP to buy it
@noahjette
Thanks for the giveaway!
nice review looks like a little fun game to pass the time
It looks like a cool game, let alone an indie game. Quality varies with indie games, but this looks good.
Some indie games are great and its nice to see them get the press they deserve
The game looks fun, and the review is great!
It looks fun, I always love to have a go at indie games, thanks for the chance.
@mysticfail
Only 80 MS points? It can’t be true
A game where you fly an RC helicopter inside a house is a great concept, and it sounds like they did it well.
It sounds like fun, so I’m putting in another entry today. Thanks!
I loved the game as soon as I tried it.
Its very well refined and just 80 points its a bit of a steal.
Feels more like a 160 or 320 game to me.
Though I’d have loved to see more helicopters and more stages etc.
Pretty much more of this.
So make a sequel
More rooms, outdoor area etc etc.
Reminds me a bit of Toy Commander in quality and such.
Nice soothing music too.
I’m jumping in for another entry, I want to win a copy to give to a friend. :3
Nice review, good descriptions and sounds like a very fun indie game.
I’m entering again, because this game sounds pretty good.