You remember flying a jet down a winding river, dodging ships and watching the fuel gauge, and you wish someone would rebuild it with modern graphics. River Raider 2 from TameStorm Games does that. It keeps the classic River Raid formula and adds 3D visuals, more enemies and a choice of aircraft.
Quick facts
- Type: 3D arcade shooter, a remake of River Raid
- Platform: Windows (9x, 200x, XP)
- Trial: free demo version available
- Full version: 50 missions
- Controls: joystick and gamepad support
Key features
Three aircraft to fly, each with its own abilities
For each mission you choose between the F-22, the F-18 or the AH-64 Apache helicopter. Each has different, unique capabilities, so you can change your approach from mission to mission.
Classic top view or an extended camera
You can switch to the top view used in the original River Raid, or to the extended view for a more 3D feel.
A mixed set of enemies on air, water and ground
You fight planes, helicopters, ships, submarines and ground air defenses. On the ground you also meet hostile foundations, warehouses, airfields, settlements and single constructions.
50 missions in the full version, with extras
The full version has 50 missions with varied landscapes, twice as many enemies as the demo, stereo sound, the option to download additional missions and free updates to later versions. It has no nags or ads.
Who it's for
This suits you if you grew up with River Raid and want a 3D version that still plays like the original. It also suits you if you like short, arcade-style missions with a joystick or gamepad. If you want a modern, story-driven game, look elsewhere.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Faithful River Raid style with a switchable classic camera
- Three different aircraft
- Free demo so you can try it first
- No ads or nags in the full version
- Small install size
Cons
- Windows only
- It is a shareware remake, so the demo is limited compared with the full game
- It needs OpenGL support
FAQs
Can I try it before buying?
Yes. A free demo version is available, and the full version adds more missions and enemies.
Does it support a joystick?
Yes. Joystick and gamepad are supported.
How many missions are there?
The full version has 50 missions.
Will I get updates?
The full version includes free updates to the next versions.
System requirements
- Pentium II 500 MHz
- 64 Mb RAM
- 27 Mb hard disk space
- 100% OpenGL
- Sound card (optional)
- Windows 9x/200x/XP