Acrojet
Getting to Know Acrojet
Acrojet is a flight simulator from MicroProse, originally released for the Commodore 64 in 1985 and later ported to several platforms including the MSX 2. This MSX 2 version brings the same focus on aerial acrobatics and precise flight control that made the original stand out. MicroProse was known for realistic sims like F-15 Strike Eagle, and Acrojet fits that tradition but with a lighter, trick-focused twist.
You take control of a propeller-driven aircraft and must perform a series of acrobatic stunts - loops, rolls, and other maneuvers - in a clear sky. The game is about precision flying rather than combat; your goal is to complete prescribed sequences of tricks, earning points for clean execution. The cockpit view gives you instruments like altitude, airspeed, and artificial horizon, which you need to read carefully to avoid stalling or spinning out.
For MSX 2 owners, Acrojet is a rare flight sim that doesn't demand military dogfighting knowledge - just steady hands and an eye for angles. Compared to more complex sims of the era, it's accessible and arcade-like in its challenge, but still requires real stick-and-rudder discipline. If you enjoy mastering a single aircraft and chasing high scores through precision flying, this is a hidden gem worth landing on your SD card.
How to Play Acrojet Online
Getting Started
When you first boot Acrojet on the MSX 2, you'll see a menu offering options like start, practice, or select your aircraft (there is only one plane, the Acrojet). Use the arrow keys to highlight your choice and press the A button (X on the keyboard) to confirm. The game expects you to read a brief instructions screen - pay attention to the required stunt sequence, typically listed as a series of abbreviations like LOOP, ROLL, or IMMELMANN.
Once in the air, your main task is to perform the listed stunts in order. Fly level first, then pitch up or down with the arrow keys, roll using left/right, and coordinate throttle (likely mapped to a shoulder button or number key) to maintain speed. If you stall, push the nose down and gain airspeed before trying again. The game logs your score as you complete each trick; a perfect run with no mistakes gets the highest points.
There is no combat or timer pressure - take your time to line up each maneuver. The MSX 2 version runs smoothly and the keyboard controls are responsive once you get used to the layout. For beginners, practice the simplest loop first, then work up to combined sequences. Keep an eye on the artificial horizon and altimeter to avoid entering a spin.
Acrojet Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
- X: Trigger 1
- S: Trigger 2
- Enter: Start
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