Darklight Conflict

Electronic Arts' latest space combat simulator is a significant departure from other games in the genre, including the Wing Commander series from their Origin affiliate label. Darklight Conflict is based on the assumption that you, a human pilot, will be fighting in an alien spacecraft. This feature will examine each mission and offer tips and outline tactics to ensure successful completion of the game. Note: Although the PlayStation version of the game was used in this evaluation, the information presented here is also pertinent for the Saturn and DOS/Windows versions. Controller actions and passwords have been annotated with the PlayStation designations.

General hints
Your fighter has several features that differ significantly from the craft in other space combat games. The HUD has several items that must be used for successful combat. Pay close attention to the yellow arrow in the lower left corner that points to an enemy target. It will appear when a target appears in the current sector. Align the arrow to point directly at the target as soon as possible. During combat, watch the stress indicator in the upper left corner of the screen. Engage your shields by pressing Circle when it blooms red. Unlike other simulators, shield use drains your overall energy so they must be used sparingly.

Both your primary weapon and your secondary default weapon may be fired at the same time. Since the secondary weapon doesn't expend any additional energy, pressing Square + X will deliver an extra punch at no cost.

If you have a target at far range, rapidly fire the secondary weapon in a heavy barrage. This does not consume your available energy and may soften the target for your primary weapon.

Don't fire at an enemy target that's extremely close. Unlike some other space simulations, the ensuing explosion will definitely damage your spacecraft.

The mission briefings are presented in an extremely annoying thin line font in the PlayStation version of the game. Unless your console is connected by an S-video cable to a large screen display, chances are you'll be squinting. There is a way around this unfortunate problem. Place your game disc in a PC equipped with a CD-ROM drive. Use a text editor, such as Wordpad, to load the "Scripts.wad" file from the root directory of the disc. The entire mission text (in several different languages) is present towards the latter portion of the file. You may print that section for easy reference.

For an easy restart, quickly pause the game and select the "Replay" option when the overseer states that the mission was a failure. This will bypass the loading times associated with the mission summary, high score screen, and password entry. Note: Although the PlayStation version of the game was used in this evaluation, the information presented here is also pertinent for the Saturn and DOS/Windows versions. Controller actions and passwords have been annotated with the PlayStation designations.

Start firing your secondary weapons before the hangar doors open during launch. A nice spray of energy spheres will appear as soon as you emerge.

If you enter a hyperspace portal while on afterburner, you'll see a nice effect that shows an energy "web" dissipating from your ship.

When you're flying a ship equipped with a tractor beam, try capturing an Ovon fighter that's in flight. Then, slam it against an asteroid or a hyperspace portal to disintegrate it.

Try landing on the War Drum upside down. You'll automatically flip to the correct orientation.

One final tip: When landing, engage your shields just before entering the hangar. If you misjudged your approach, you'll bounce back out into space instead of exploding against the hangar doors.

Introduction
Watch the introduction sequence to witness your character's abduction by the Reptons.

Mission 1: Journey to the Kampuss (No password)
The first of several training missions. Follow the overseer's instructions as you launch in a fighter. Point the green mission objective arrow directly ahead and follow this course to find the hyperspace portal. Entering a portal is a relatively simple task -- unless you hit the portal edge-on, your spacecraft can not be harmed by a poor approach. If you should happen to bounce off the edge, simply accelerate away from the portal and repeat your attempt. Once in the portal, run over the orange matter spheres to recharge your energy. Avoid the blue anti-matter spheres, as this will have the opposite effect. The easiest way to remain in control is to keep your ship centered between the left and right edges of the screen. Then, just move vertically to collect the energy spheres.

Once out of hyperspace, use the mission objective arrow to locate the training craft Kampuss, which should be directly ahead. If necessary, press L1 or R1 to bank your craft to match the Kampuss' orientation in space. Your objective is to dock with the Kampuss. Aim for the rectangular hangar doors that are located on the large oval section of the ship. The doors will automatically open when your ship is on approach. Fly in at a conservative speed. At times, your ship may bounce off the hangar. Quickly aim towards the center of the hangar to save your approach or you will bounce back into space, or worse. It is possible to crash during landing by using the wrong approach angle or speed.

Mission 2: Gun Pod Training (KXCSSSDSC)
You will be released inside a gun pod that will float adjacent to the Kampuss. The gun pod can't move from its position. The only controls that need to be mastered are your shields and secondary weapon. Become accustomed to the scanner display at the bottom center of the screen. Learn how to match your aim with the targets displayed on the scanner. Note that the gun pod does not track freely in all directions and does stop rotating at a certain point. Quickly target and destroy all drones to complete the mission.

Mission 3: Basic Combat Skills (PHPPXDDJH)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. After exiting the portal, destroy the floating training drones. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

After exiting the portal, destroy the armed training drones. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal and collect the energy spheres.

After exiting the portal, destroy the training fighters. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Dock with the Kampuss to complete the mission.

Mission 4: Primary Weapon Training (PJVQXHDJH)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. The plasma cannon will already be configured as the primary weapon. After exiting the portal, destroy the training drones with that weapon.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the laser cannon. Destroy the armed training drones with that weapon.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the fragmentation cannon. Note that this gun will not auto-fire when Square is held. Enter the hyperspace portal.

Dock with the Kampuss to complete the mission.

Mission 5: Missile Training (MHMGTWLBW)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. The drive seeking missiles will already be configured as the primary weapon. After exiting the portal, destroy the training fighters with that weapon. Fire a missile after hearing the locking tone. Note that this missile will not lock on friendly craft.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the screamer missile. Destroy the training fighters with that weapon. Since the screamer does not track it's target, it must be aimed and fired during close combat.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the widow maker missile. Destroy the training fighters with that weapon. Note that this missile will lock on friend and foe alike. Since it always locks on the nearest target, it is best used in situations where you are fighting alone. The widow maker has a greater chance of hitting the target when it is launched at a fairly close range.

Enter the hyperspace portal and dock with the Kampuss to complete the mission.

Mission 6: Heavy Weapon Training (HHMTVCMPD)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. The escort missiles will already be configured as the primary weapon. After exiting the portal, arm a missile and approach a training fighter. The missile will lock and fire when it is in range. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the virus bomb. Infect the training barges with a virus bomb after exiting the portal. This technique requires some practice. Position your spacecraft directly at the target. A rear approach works best for moving targets. Fire a virus bomb at close range, then immediately veer off and accelerate in a safe direction. Since the bombs are not self propelled, it is essential that you fire while on course to the target. The bomb's inertia will carry forward until it makes contact. The random sounding tones of the activated bomb will confirm a successful hit. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the rector bomb. Destroy the target barges with the bombs. As with the virus bomb, it must be aimed and released while approaching the target. Due it's greater destructive potential, it must be released at a distance safe enough for your spacecraft to avoid damage. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

The mission will be complete after exiting the portal.

Mission 7: Advance Weapon Training (WVCHDWVCK)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. The cloaking device will already be configured as the primary weapon. After exiting the portal, activate the cloak and note its large power consumption. The cloak will automatically deactivate after several seconds.

The primary weapon will automatically switch to the judgment cube. Destroy the target barges with cubes. As with the other bombs, it must be aimed and released while approaching the target. Although it has a higher destructive capability than the rector bomb, your spacecraft may remain in close proximity to the target without being destroyed in the resulting explosion. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Destroy the next set of target barges with cubes after exiting the portal. The mission will be complete after all the last target barge explodes.

Mission 8: Tractor Training (HKMBVXMPD)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. The tractor beam pod will already be configured as the primary weapon. After exiting the portal, approach the cargo pod. Activate the tractor beam after the pod signals a successful lock. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Since the tractor beam is disabled during hyperspace, it is essential that you avoid colliding with the cargo upon exiting the portal. To do this, hold L2 while in hyperspace. Upon exiting the portal, your ship should have no forward momentum. Rotate if necessary to face the cargo and re-activate the tractor beam. Move away from the portal and drop the cargo by pressing Triangle to select another primary weapon.

Dock with the Kampuss to complete the mission.

Mission 9: Simulated Battle (QJCSSLDDV)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. Destroy the three waves of training fighters with any combination of weapons. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Dock with the Kampuss to complete the mission.

Mission 10: Journey Back to War Drum (GDQLPPVHT)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the Kampuss. Avoid running into the asteroids as you fly towards the next hyperspace portal. Arm your ship with drive seeking missiles and go to full throttle before entering the portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Prepare to engage a wave of Ovon fighters upon exiting the portal. Fire the drive seekers first to even the fight. Then, use the plasma cannon to take out any survivors. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after the battle ends.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 11: Route Forging (QLLTSHDDV)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the War Drum. Engage a wave of Ovon ships after exiting the portal. Although it's tempting to use the drive seeking missiles at this point, save them for a later part of the mission. The fighters in this wave, and their replacements, are easy to defeat with the laser cannon. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal and collect energy spheres.

A hyperspace portal in this sector has been locked with a bracing unit. Launch a rector bomb to destroy the brace. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal

Begin destroying asteroids after exiting the portal. Clear a path along the direction indicated by the mission objective arrow. Drop to zero thrust after approaching the asteroids and fire your secondary weapon to conserve energy. You will be ordered to the next hyperspace portal after a sufficient number of asteroids have been destroyed. Collect energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Engage and destroy the flight of Ovon ships on the other side of the portal. Use the laser cannon and secondary weapon to defeat the first wave and their replacements. The last wave consists of well armed and seasoned ships. Use the drive seeking missiles during this dogfight to control the situation. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after clearing the sector.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 12: Defend The Drum (LVCVLHDMQ)
This is the first true gun pod mission. Keep X pressed to continually fire your gun. It is possible to press Circle while firing to activate your shields. Keep this in mind when firing upon Ovon ships directly ahead while being attacked from the sides or rear. It is essential that no attackers slip past your position. Note that there are other gun pods (the other purple dots on the scanner) in the battle. Concentrate your fire on the attacks that are within your vicinity. Watch your stress status and don't hesitate when activating the shields. Since the weapon system does not decrease the available energy, all of it can be used by the shields. Do not accidentally target other Repton gun pods. The most important goal for success is to immediately destroy as many attackers as possible. With any luck, your wingmen will also be as successful.

The mission will be complete after all attacking Ovon ships have been destroyed.

Mission 13: Power Mining (QCTJSBDDV)
Enter the hyperspace portal after launching from the War Drum. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

A wave of Ovon ships will appear on the other side of the portal. Use the laser cannon to destroy them. Do not use your missiles or enter the asteroid field during this battle.

After the attackers are eliminated, approach the asteroids and begin destroying them with your secondary weapon. Once again, come to a full stop or very slow throttle as you follow the mission target arrow into the asteroid field. Watch for the enemy target arrow to appear during this time. Two lone Ovon ships will appear in separate attacks. Immediately aim your ship toward the attacking Ovon and destroy them with your missiles. Once again, save your missiles for use later in this mission.

Eventually, an ore fragment will appear within the asteroid debris. Activate the tractor beam to collect the fragment. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Remember to cut the throttle before exiting.

Re-acquire the ore fragment and approach the War Drum. Switch primary weapons to drop the fragment after it is properly positioned to complete the mission.

Mission 14: Defend The Boffins (QVMXJCLTM)
Align your ship with the mission objective arrow and proceed at full throttle in this direction. A flight of Ovon ships will appear en route to the Aal Tair 7 installation. Destroy them with the laser cannon and screamer missiles.

Continue toward Aal Tair 7 and fire the drive seeker missiles when they obtain a lock on the attacking Ovon ships. The mission will be completed after all attackers have been destroyed.

Mission 15: Killer Comets (PMLPWCDJH)
Arm your ship with the fragmentation cannon after launching. Enter the hyperspace portal and collect the energy spheres. After exiting the portal, immediately align your ship with the mission target arrow. Engage full throttle and approach the first comet. This mission is very time dependent. Use an approach that is slightly to the rear and the side of the comet. Approach to a fairly close range, cut your throttle to a slow stop, and shoot the comet engine. Several hits may be needed before it explodes. Keep a safe distance from the comet and its tail to avoid damage.

After the first comet is destroyed, immediately align your ship with the mission target arrow. Afterburn towards the next comet. Once again, maneuver into position and use the fragmentation cannon to destroy the engine. If the comet cannot be stopped within a reasonable amount of time, fire a drive seeker from a safe distance directly behind the comet.

Repeat this procedure with the third and fourth comet. Ovon fighters will appear during this time. Ignore them unless they attack your ship first. It may be best to avoid their fire while you remain concentrated on the comet. If the opportunity presents itself, destroy the fighters with any weapon other than the drive seeker.

After the threat from all four comets has been eliminated, focus on the surviving Ovon fighters. Use any remaining drive seekers before switching to the laser cannon.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission. Note that this landing will be more difficult than the previous attempts. The War Drum now has a significant forward velocity. Start your approach from slightly ahead and to the side of the War Drum. Correct your approach as you close in on the hangar. Slip inside before the angle of attack becomes too steep to correct.

Mission 16: The Birth of Hyperspace (XKVPBWMGJ)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Follow the green mission objective arrow to the partially constructed portal. Arm your plasma cannon and quickly position your fighter directly in front of the portal. Fire your secondary weapon to check your aim. Your shots should impact exactly in the center of the portal. Begin firing a barrage of plasma cannon and secondary weapon shots a few seconds after the overseer instructs you to defend the engineering units. Three Ovon ships will appear from the portal. Try to destroy them as they emerge. Do not turn away from the portal, even if one of the Ovons survives. Immediately after the third Ovon emerges, and hopefully is destroyed, turn around and arm your widow maker missiles. Quickly locate and destroy and surviving ships from the first wave. Remember, the widow maker does not have friend or foe recognition. Try to isolate the Ovon ship from your wingmen before firing.

Return to the portal as soon as possible to intercept the second wave of Ovon attackers. Once again, if you have sufficient time, position your fighter to destroy the ships as they emerge from the portal. If this is not possible, fire your remaining widow makers at the ships before they destroy the engineering units. Then, switch back to the plasma cannon to take out any survivors.

Cut to zero throttle and wait after the second wave of Ovons are destroyed. The remaining engineering units will slowly enter the hyperspace portal that leads back to the War Drum. The overseer will order your ship to return after the last engineering unit has left the sector.

Enter the indicated hyperspace portal and dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 17: Robots in Space (GVJHQTDDV)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. A large flight of Ovon ships will appear. Go to full throttle and ignore them. A few seconds later, the overseer will instruct you to enter the next hyperspace portal. Proceed to that location and leave the Ovons behind.

Enter the indicated hyperspace portal and collect the energy spheres. Switch to the tractor beam pod and use the green mission objective arrow to find the mining robot. Activate the tractor beam when the pod signals that the target is in range. Ovon ships will appear in the sector. Bring your throttle to zero thrust and disengage the tractor beam by arming your laser cannon or drive seeking missiles. Engage the Ovon ships. Make sure that the mining robot is not accidentally hit during the battle. Re-acquire the robot after destroying the Ovons.

Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Remember to cut to zero throttle to prevent a collision with the robot on the other side of the portal. Re-acquire the robot with the tractor beam and approach the War Drum. Drop the robot next to the main section of the War Drum. Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission

Mission 18: Surprise Ovon Attack (CVHBSSVVB)
Unlike the previous gun pod missions, the Ovon attackers will head directly towards your location. Once again, keep firing your laser continuously at their location and activate your shields to protect the pod from incoming fire. The Ovons will attack in pairs and will appear fairly quickly. You must keep your shields activated to allow enough time for the attackers to be destroyed.

Mission 19: Patrol (LPMCGWVCK)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Engage and destroy the Ovon ships in this sector. This is a relatively easy battle that requires only the laser cannon and secondary weapon for success. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal and collect the energy spheres after the sector is cleared.

You will encounter an Ovon destroyer and accompanying fighters. Lead the fighters away from the destroyer and eliminate them only if the opportunity presents itself. Engage your afterburners and outrun the missiles that the Ovons will fire. Arm your escort missiles and make a run at the destroyer. Repeat the process of leading the fighters away, and making a run at the destroyer until it's destroyed. The key to success is not to have the escort missiles wasted on the fighters by leading them away from the primary target. Ignore the surviving Ovon ships and enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed.

Collect the energy spheres before exiting the portal. Engage and the Ovon ships in this sector with your remaining weapons.

The next task is to destroy the bracing unit that is locking a hyperspace portal. This may be done accomplished by positioning your ship at zero throttle at a safe distance and firing a concentrated barrage from your secondary weapon. The bracing unit will eventually explode. Enter the portal and avoid the anti-matter spheres.

The overseer will indicate that an enemy gun pod field is ahead. Fly at full throttle towards this location, and continuously fire your secondary weapon. This will destroy a few stray Ovon craft en route to the portal. Do not attempt to destroy the gun pods that are orbiting the portal. Instead, engage your shields after entering weapons range and enter the portal at full throttle.

Dock with the War Drum, which is in motion, to complete the mission.

Mission 20: Farewell Iris I (KQPKBBMGJ)
Leave formation from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Fly through the asteroid field and approach the indicated hyperspace portal. A flight of Ovon ships will appear. Ignore them and continue towards the portal.

After exiting the portal, arm your rector bombs and approach Iris I. Make several runs while engaging the shields if fired upon. If the opportunity arises, destroy any of the defending Ovon ships that cross your HUD. Watch your threat indicator on the lower right side of the HUD. If it flashes red, immediately afterburn to outrun the threat. At least two successful hits with rector bombs are necessary to destroy the station.

A second wave of Ovon ships will appear after station explodes. Engage them to clear the sector and complete the mission.

Mission 21: Convoy (GHDMJTLTM)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace. The overseer will direct you to another hyperspace portal. While flying towards this location, continuously fire your secondary weapon to destroy the multiple Ovon ships that will appear. Remain on course towards the portal and do not break off to engage any surviving Ovons.

Arm your judgment cubes, enter the hyperspace portal, and collect the energy spheres. Upon exiting the portal, fire a judgment cube at the nearest convoy vessel. Immediately turn right and fly at full throttle away from the convoy. If necessary, use your afterburners to outrun the Ovon missiles. Switch to the fragmentation cannon and destroy the defending Ovon fighters. After removing the threat from the fighters, and their missiles, locate and destroy the remaining convoy vessels. If no judgment cubes are left, a concentrated barrage from your secondary weapon will eventually destroy the vessel.

Enter the indicated hyperspace portal and dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 22: Hiding in Rocks (LSMJPSDSC)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Cautiously approach the asteroid field and pick off the Ovon craft that are floating among the rocks. Watch for Ovon and widow maker missiles fired by your own wingmen. Use the standard afterburn technique to outrun them. Refrain from firing your own widow makers until you have a clear shot. Due to the interference with the scanners, you must rely on your view from the HUD to identify and track your targets.

After the asteroid field has been cleared, approach the indicated hyperspace portal. Destroy the lone Ovon craft that will appear near the portal. Enter the portal and collect the energy spheres.

Engage and destroy the Ovon ships in this sector. This may be accomplished without entering the asteroid field. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after the sector is cleared.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 23: Space Pirates! (XVJKBSVCK)
This gun pod mission is fairly straight forward. Destroy the pirate ships as they emerge from the portals and fly towards the War Drum. Accurate positioning of your defensive fire is essential due to the small target that these ships present. A few of the ships will target your pod, so prepare to keep the shields activated while you return fire. The mission will be completed after all attacking ships are destroyed.

Mission 24: Hyperspace Missiles (LHHBXSVVX)
This challenging mission requires accurate flying skills and targeting for successful completion. Press Down immediately after launching from the War Drum. Stop your downward motion when the open area of space below the yellow star and the War Drum appears. Cut your throttle to zero to position your ship directly over the launching bay. Arm your laser cannon and rotate to face the incoming hyperspace missiles. From this position, the missiles will be an easy target, with a nearly head-on flight path. Approach the indicated hyperspace portal after the missiles have been destroyed. Set your throttle to 50% and enter the portal.

Turn right immediately after exiting the portal and attempt to destroy the hyperspace missiles that are entering the other hyperspace portal in this sector. Approach this new portal and follow the surviving missiles. Do not follow too closely to the last missile that enters the portal.

Position your ship in the center of the screen while in hyperspace. Immediately begin firing as you exit the portal. This should destroy the missiles that just left the portal directly in front of your ship. If necessary, adjust your flight path slightly to the left. After this group of missiles has been destroyed, turn left while keeping your throttle at 50%. Fly directly behind the second group of missiles that are headed toward the War Drum. Use a combination of laser cannon and secondary weapon fire to destroy them. Try to match their speed as they are on approach to quickly eliminate them. If your ship becomes positioned in front of one of the latter missiles, slow slightly to allow it to pass. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after all missiles have exploded.

Accelerate to full throttle and turn left, away from the Ovon mother ship, when exiting the portal. Fly towards the large white star in this sector. Arm your judgment cubes and begin an attack run on the mother ship. From this angle, you should be approaching the ship from a top-down approach, which presents the largest target area. Launch the cube from a safe distance, then immediately afterburn in the opposite direction, towards the white star, to avoid defensive missiles. Ignore the defending Ovon fighters unless it is absolutely necessary to engage them. Repeat the run and fire the remaining judgment cube. Both cubes must successfully impact to destroy the mother ship. None of your other weapons can effectively harm this target.

The overseer will announce that the Ovon mother ship managed to launch another series of hyperspace missiles before it exploded. Afterburn towards the indicated hyperspace portal and enter it at full throttle. Turn to the left after exiting the portal and match speed and direction with the missiles headed for the War Drum. Quickly destroy them before they impact.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 25: Mining (CSDWHMVQP)
Break formation from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. Engage and destroy the Ovon ships that are next to the portal's exit. Approach the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. While on approach to the portal, continuously fire your secondary weapon to destroy the stray Ovon ships that will appear in your path. Ignore the gun pods surrounding the portal and activate your shields as you enter hyperspace.

Eliminate the two Ovon ships that are on the other side of the portal. Enter the asteroid field and destroy the rocks until an ore fragment appears. Capture the fragment with the tractor beam. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace. Remember to cut your throttle to zero before exiting the portal to avoid colliding with your cargo. Engage the tractor beam to re-capture the ore fragment. Approach the War Drum and position the fragment directly below the main section that houses the hangar. Release the fragment to complete the mission.

Mission 26: Free Trading (PQHBHPVQP)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace. Pirate ships will appear shortly after the overseer announces the present sector as being clear. Use your laser cannon to destroy them. The ships are relatively easy targets. Save your missiles for a later point in the mission. Avoid damaging the Repton supply craft that are being attacked by the pirates. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after clearing this sector.

Engage and destroy the pirate ships in this sector. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Approach Nirvana 12 and destroy the pirate ships that appear from the portal. One of the most challenging aspects of this part of the mission is to avoiding a collision with the massive space station. When aiming at the pirate ships, keep an eye on the purple friendly ship pointer to avoid running into Nirvana 12. After taking out the first few pirate ships, fire off your entire supply of drive seeker and widow maker missiles. Note that the widow makers should only be fired when a pirate ship is the closest object to your location. Try to exhaust your missiles before the primary weapons systems fail about half way through this battle. Use your secondary weapon to quickly destroy any remaining attackers. Remember that you have to keep your target in range and under fire for an additional amount of time.

You will receive clearance to dock with Nirvana 12 after all pirate ships are destroyed. To find the docking hanger, approach the station from the side and aim towards the large spherical section in the center. Orient your ship so that the spherical section is viewed edge on, where its shape resembles a mushroom sitting on top of the remainder of the station. The hanger doors will automatically open when your ship gets within range. Land aboard the space station to complete the mission.

Mission 27: Ship Yards in Space (MTHLVQDJH)
Launch from Nirvana 12 and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Destroy the Ovon fighters that are on the other side of the portal. Ignore the Ovon mothership that is nearby and enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. If necessary, afterburn to avoid incoming fire from the mothership. Arm your escort missiles before entering the portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

The ship yards are grouped as a large orbital facility just in front of the portal exit. Quickly fire both escort missiles to destroy the facility. It is important that you fire the missiles before other Ovon ships launch to prevent them from straying off the primary target. Turn slightly to the right and afterburn to outrun incoming fire. After receiving confirmation that the ship yards have been destroyed, turn around and fly back towards the hyperspace portal. The overseer should state that the sector objective is complete and instruct you to return to the War Drum. Afterburn past the remaining Ovon ships in this sector. They are well armed and out number you significantly. Use your shields if necessary before entering the indicated hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Dock with the moving War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 28: The Ovon Gift (MVXTVSDJH)
Leave formation with the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Immediately afterburn after leaving the portal to fly past a group of incoming Ovon fighters. Turn around and engage the fighters until all are destroyed. Save your missiles until a later point in the mission.

Tractor the abandoned Ovon fighter when instructed, then fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal. Another flight of Ovon fighters will appear. Drop your cargo by arming the drive seeker missiles and fly out of the path of the incoming fighters. Take out the Ovon ships with your missiles. Re-acquire the captured fighter and enter the hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace and remember to drop to zero throttle before exiting the portal.

Re-acquire the captured fighter and approach the War Drum. Turn off the tractor beam to deposit the fighter below the main landing bay to complete the mission.

Mission 29: Human Reconnaissance (GCBBPDDDV)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Bring your throttle to zero while in hyperspace. Use the laser cannon and secondary weapon to destroy the mines. Try to set off a chain reaction to destroy them. The first group is directly in front of the portal exit. You cannot prevent your wingman from being caught in the explosion. Proceed forward to the next group of mines in this sector. Afterburn immediately after this field is cleared. An Ovon ship will appear and fire directly at your ship. Arm a drive seeker missile and fire it at a safe distance. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. Drop your throttle to zero before exiting the portal.

Turn around and face the portal that was just exited. Arm and your remaining drive seekers at the Ovon ships that will appear from this direction. As more Ovon ships appear, fly a safe distance away from both mine fields in this sector and engage the attackers. Destroy both mine fields after the ships have been eliminated. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed and ignore the other Ovon targets on the scanner.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 30: Farewell Iris II (LKPJBLVCK)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Ignore the Ovon target in this sector. Arm your widow maker missiles and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Fly towards the Ovon targets at full throttle and deploy your widow makers before the Repton bombers enter the sector. Destroy the Ovon gun pods surrounding the next hyperspace portal. Protect the bombers as they enter the portal, then follow them. Arm your drive seeker missiles and fire all of them at the line of four Ovon fighters that are attack the emerging bombers. Pick off any remaining defenders while the bombers begin their run. The mission will be complete after Iris II explodes.

Mission 31: Battle of the Motherships (HKTTSKLKS)
This is a gun pod mission that requires accurate use of shields. When the mission begins, aim directly below the Ovon mothership that appears on screen. Continuously fire to destroy the first few fighters that are launched before breaking off in another direction. Watch the yellow enemy target arrow to track the other Ovon fighters that have launched. Keep the shields continuously activated when you come under fire. Release them during the brief pauses in the battle.

Mission 32: The Edge of Darkness (WKVSDXMGJ)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. Break right, go to full throttle, fly past the Ovon bomber wing, and attempt to take one or two out on the way through. Turn around and focus on the defending Ovon fighters. After eliminating their threat, begin strafing the bomber wing until all ships are destroyed. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. Drop to zero throttle before exiting the portal.

Destroy both Ovon mine fields in this sector. Fly towards the hyperspace portal that is locked with a bracing unit. Use a rector bomb to remove the brace and enter the portal.

Immediately kick in the afterburners as you exit the portal to fly past a wave of attacking pirate ships. Turn around and take them out. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

You'll immediately enter another hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal and avoid the asteroids. Release a rector bomb to destroy the bracing unit that is blocking the portal. Enter the freed portal.

Fly towards the unidentified object that is next to the indicated hyperspace portal. Carefully position your ship directly behind the object and shoot your secondary weapon to push it into the portal. Follow it into the portal and collect the energy spheres. Drop your throttle to zero before exiting the portal.

The mission will be complete after your ship appears from the portal.

Mission 33: The Alliance (KWCTBBDWL)
Leave the Aal Tair 7 research station and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Ignore the large fleet of Ovon ships and enter the next hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Your flight controls will malfunction in this sector. This should not be a problem, since there are no enemy targets in the area. Arm your widow maker missiles, then carefully fly towards and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Fire widow makers at the Ovon fighters that are flying towards your ship after leaving the portal. Adjust your flight path to intercept the destroyer and fire two rector bombs before veering off on afterburners. The overseer will announce that the sector objective has been completed. Fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal. Use your remaining widow makers to take out any Ovons that present a threat.

Enter the portal and return to Aal Tair 7 to complete the mission.

Mission 34: Mining for Victory (PDCQVCVLG)
Leave formation with the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Upon exiting the portal, break right and destroy the incoming Ovon fighter. Save all your missiles for use later in the mission. After this ship is destroyed, the overseer will instruct you to proceed to the next hyperspace portal. Fly towards that destination and ignore the other Ovon targets that will appear. Approach the portal at full throttle, and continuously fire your secondary weapon to catch one of the Ovon ships that will appear en route. Break slightly to either direction after destroying this ship to avoid incoming fire from its wingmen. Then, resume your course and enter the portal. Ignore the Ovon gun pods that are protecting the portal. If necessary, blast them out of the way. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. Drop your throttle to zero before exiting the portal.

Destroy the Ovon gun pod directly in front of your ship upon exiting the portal. Immediately go to full throttle and break left, away from the asteroid belt. A group of asteroids will home in on your bomber. Turn around and destroy the homing asteroids. Follow the green mission objective arrow back to the asteroid belt and begin destroying individual asteroids. Fire upon and destroy the other Ovon gun pods in the belt only if encountered.

When the ore fragment is discovered, go to full throttle and fly past it, out of the asteroid belt. Another homing asteroid has been triggered. Destroy it, then return to the ore fragment. Use the tractor beam to capture the ore, then enter the indicated hyperspace portal. It is essential that you avoid as many anti-matter spheres as possible in hyperspace. The battle in the next sector requires sufficient energy for afterburning maneuvers. Remember to drop your throttle to zero before exiting the portal to avoid collision with the ore fragment.

Upon exiting the portal, arm and fire a widow maker missile at the Ovon gunship that is closing on your location. Go to afterburners to avoid incoming fire. Turn around and take out the remaining Ovon fighters with your laser cannon, and one additional widow maker if needed. Re-acquire the ore fragment with the tractor beam after finishing the battle. Fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal. Drop the ore fragment, and arm your last two widow makers when more Ovon ships appear. Destroy both ships with the widow makers, then re-acquire the ore fragment. Enter the hyperspace portal. Drop your throttle to zero during hyperspace.

Use the tractor beam to re-acquire the ore fragment upon exiting the portal. Release the ore directly below the main hangar area to complete the mission.

Mission 35: Heaven's Crossroads (QDSJXTLBW)
After launching, break to the right and head towards the hyperspace portal in that direction. Begin firing as soon as the portal is targeted, aiming just in front of the "2 o'clock" position. This should result in the destruction of the first Ovon fighter to pass through the portal. Aim at the center of the portal to destroy the next fighter that appears. At this point, break and turn around to kill some of the Ovons that have entered through the other portals. Save all of your missiles, using just the laser cannon and secondary weapon to dogfight with the other ships. As soon as the first wave is killed, fly towards the nearest portal and start firing a laser barrage towards the center. After the first Ovon ship is destroyed, fly back towards the War Drum and dogfight the other Ovons. Destroy as many fighters as possible before the Ovon battleship appears.

At this point, afterburn towards the battleship and arm your drive seeker missiles. Fire all the drive seekers when they obtain a lock. Then, fire your widow maker missiles, after closing the distance to the Ovon battleship. Note: If your fighter is closer to the War Drum, the widow makers will lock and hit that ship instead of the battleship. After exhausting all missiles, aim and fire a continuous barrage of lasers at the battleship while keeping the shields activated.

Dock with the War Drum after destroying the battleship to complete the mission.

Mission 36: Ovon Power (HVLLMDDSC)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Begin firing your secondary lasers before leaving the portal to destroy a gun pod group that is directly in front of the exit. Fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal while avoiding the Ovon fighters that will appear. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Upon exiting the portal, break right and destroy the Ovon fighter. Then, locate the nearest power station and destroy it using the plasma cannon and secondary weapon. Use a strafing technique, repeating your passes until the station is destroyed. Ovon fighters armed with missiles will appear in the gun pod field. Use drive seekers to take them out. Continue strafing runs on the other power stations until all of them are destroyed. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 37: Solar Winds (DHHMXBLBW)
Leave formation with the War Drum and enter the hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Upon exiting the portal, momentarily ignore the order to attack the command center. Instead, break and attack the Ovon fighters in the sector. After the fighter threat has been eliminated, switch to rector bombs and destroy the command center. Then, use your secondary weapon to strafe the solar panels. Break off your runs to take care of any defending Ovon fighters that appear.

Follow the green mission objective arrow to the next command center when instructed. Destroy the defending Ovon fighters en route to the solar panel cluster. Arm a rector bomb and use it to destroy the command center. Take out the Ovon fighters that will appear. Then, commence strafing runs on the solar panels. Use your screamer missiles to destroy the gun pods.

Return to the War Drum, which is now in this sector. Enter formation with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 38: Race Meeting (HKXLWLVVX)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Engage and destroy the Ovon fighters that are defending the track. Arm a logic bomb and disable the defensive station that is protecting the track. Switch to your widow maker missiles and destroy the indicated racers. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed. Avoid the Ovon fighters that will appear en route. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Fly towards the next hyperspace portal. Engage your shields and use your afterburners to avoid incoming fire from the Ovon destroyer and escort fighters. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal as soon as possible to escape the Ovons.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 39: Rescue The Commander (TMQPXSDSC)
Leave formation with the War Drum and follow your escort fighters into the indicated hyperspace portal. Shoot the Ovon gun pods before your escorts waste too many of their missiles. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Break to avoid the incoming Ovon fighters, then engage and destroy them. Save your drive seeker missiles for later in the mission. Arm your rector bombs, enter the indicated hyperspace portal, and collect the energy spheres.

Upon exiting the portal, break right and launch a rector bomb at the Ovon destroyer. Activate your shields while launching the bomb to protect your bomber from incoming fire. Afterburn to avoid additional attacks. Turn around and fire drive seekers at the missile equipped Ovon fighters. After all defending fighters are destroyed, use another rector bomb to eliminate the remaining Ovon destroyer. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Destroy the Ovon fighters on the other side of the portal. Use caution, as they're armed with screamer missiles. Find the commander's escape pod and capture it with the tractor beam. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Drop to zero throttle while flying through hyperspace.

Re-acquire the escape pod with the tractor beam. A few seconds later, the overseer will instruct you to drop the pod again. Do so, and engage the Ovon ships that will appear. Use your remaining drive seekers to destroy them. Retrieve the escape pod after all Ovons have been eliminated. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Release the escape pod under the hangar section of the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 40: Farewell Iris III (WPGLLCDWL)
Leave formation with the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Afterburn past the flight of Ovon ships that are on the other side of the portal. Arm a rector bomb and destroy the bracing unit while your fighter escort occupies the Ovons. Afterburn around the surviving Ovon ships and head towards the indicated hyperspace portal. Fire at the Ovon gun pods that are next to the portal during your approach. Engage your shields for protection, and enter the portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Afterburn when your ship gets to the other side of the portal to avoid the missile armed Ovon fighters. Ignore Iris III for the moment and use your drive seeker missiles to eliminate the fighter threat. Lead them away from the space station to avoid collisions. Fly towards Iris III after destroying the first wave of defenders. A group of gun pods will appear on one side of the station. Use a series of strafing runs to eliminate them. Prepare to afterburn to outrun the defensive missiles being fired from Iris III. Begin bombing runs on the space station using your remaining rector bombs. The War Drum will enter the sector after the station is destroyed. Drop your speed to avoid an accidental collision.

Enter formation with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 41: The Outpost (VWKTGXDMQ)
Launch from the War Drum and begin firing at the hyperspace portal directly in front of the hangar. A total of three Ovon fighters will emerge from the portal. Enter the indicated portal when instructed.

Afterburn and break slightly to avoid an ambush by Ovon fighters. Turn around and engage the fighters after outrunning their initial missile volley. Proceed towards the indicated hyperspace portal and destroy the Ovon fighters that appear en route. The portal is guarded by two Ovon destroyers on either side, and a series of gun pods. A series of precise strafing runs are needed to clear the portal. Line up behind either destroyer and head towards the opening of the portal. Fire your secondary weapon at the gun pod. Turn before coming into Ovon missile range. If needed, turn and burn to avoid defensive fire. Begin a full throttle approach into the portal after the gun pods on one side have been cleared. Engage the cloaking device just before entering the destroyers' weapons range. Turn off the cloak immediately before entering the portal to save energy. Timed correctly, your ship will enter the portal before the destroyer's weapons can do any harm. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Engage and destroy the Ovon ships on the other side of the portal. Turn and burn to avoid their missiles. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after clearing the sector of Ovon activity. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Break to either direction upon exiting the portal. Eliminate the Ovon fighter threat with your widow maker missiles while flying towards the early warning station. Carefully take out the early warning station using the laser cannon and secondary weapon while avoiding the asteroids. Then, destroy the accompanying satellite dishes with your secondary weapon. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal when instructed.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 42: The Big Guns (VBKMJJMGJ)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Fire your secondary weapon as you exit the portal to destroy the center section of the Ovon gun pod field directly in your flight path. Turn around and destroy the remaining gun pods. Engage and destroy the Ovon fighters that appear in this sector. Use a concentrated barrage of secondary weapon fire to destroy the bracing unit after all fighters have been eliminated. Enter the unlocked hyperspace portal. Destroy the first group of planetary defense cannons with your screamer missiles. Afterburn to avoid incoming enemy fire. Switch to the fragmentation cannon to destroy any remaining enemy cannons after running out of missiles. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Once again, use your fragmentation cannon to destroy the planetary defense cannons in this sector. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after clearing the sector. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Engage and destroy the Ovon ships in this sector. Destroy the bracing unit with a concentrated barrage of secondary weapons fire after all Ovon fighters have been destroyed.

Enter the unlocked portal and fly next to the space station to complete the mission.

Mission 43: Trojan Horse (VGVLJDMGJ)
Leave the space station and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Break to either direction to avoid the Ovon fighters directly in your flight path. Arm your rector bombs and fly towards the Ovon battleship. Afterburn if necessary, and destroy the battleship. Outrun the pursuing Ovon fighters and destroy the second battleship in this sector. Avoid the remaining Ovon fighters and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Draw the Ovon fighters away from the mothership and use your widow maker missiles to destroy them. Begin bombing runs with the rector bombs until the mother ship is destroyed. Avoid any surviving Ovon fighters and afterburn into the indicated hyperspace portal.

Fly next to the space station to complete the mission.

Mission 44: Long Range Threat (MSQVCCLTM)
Launch from the War Drum and destroy the Ovon fighters that will appear from the portal directly in front of your flight path. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Take out the Ovon fighters protecting the first group of missile launchers. Fire your laser cannon to destroy the missile launchers. Afterburn to avoid any incoming Ovon missiles. Repeat this strategy for the next group of launchers. Enter the hyperspace portal when instructed. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Break to either direction to avoid colliding with the next group of missile launchers. Repeat the same strategy used in the last sector to eliminate them. The next group of launchers are protected by an Ovon capital ship. Destroy the launchers first, then fire all of your widow makers at the capital ship. Prepare to afterburn to avoid incoming fire. If needed, finish off the capital ship with a concentrated barrage of laser cannon and secondary weapons fire. Enter the hyperspace portal when instructed.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 45: The NET (SQDVQHDJH)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Break to either direction after exiting the portal to avoid a collision with a NET component. Engage and destroy the Ovon fighters in this sector. Fire your laser cannon at the small control unit on the back of each NET component to destroy the entire assembly. Take out the additional Ovon fighters that appear. Destroy the gun pods guarding the hyperspace portal before entering. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Break to either direction after exiting the portal and destroy the gun pods that are in this sector. Then, destroy each Net component. Watch for additional Ovon fighters to appear. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 46: Bomb The Mothers (HGTJWGDSC)
Leave formation with the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace. Break right and afterburn past the wing of incoming Ovon fighters. Allow your fighter escort to engage them. The overseer will direct you towards a hyperspace portal after a sufficient number of Ovons have been eliminated. Afterburn towards the portal and avoid the surviving Ovons. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. It's essential that you exit the portal at full power.

Break to either direction upon exiting the portal to avoid a gun pod field. Engage and destroy the Ovon fighters that are patrolling this sector. Fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal after all Ovon ships have been eliminated. Make several passes to destroy the gun pods that are protecting the portal. Arm your judgment cubes and enter the portal when it is safe. Fly towards the first Ovon mothership and begin a bombing run. Use an approach that allows the central section of the mothership to appear as a circle. Aim for the center of the circle and release two cubes before breaking off. Use this attack angle on all motherships. Destroy the screamer-armed fighters that are in this sector before attacking the second mothership. Fly towards the indicated hyperspace portal. Ignore the Ovon capital ship that is positioned next to the portal. Enter the portal from the side opposite the capital ship with shields activated. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. It's essential that you exit the portal at full power.

Destroy the Ovon fighters in this sector with your widow maker missiles before approaching the mothership. After destroying the mothership, eliminate the second wave of Ovon fighters with your laser cannon. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal.

Fly next to the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 47: Excel (HJPGLKVCK)
Leave formation with the War Drum and fly towards the asteroid field. Destroy the Ovon fighters that appear within the asteroid field. Use the tractor beam to capture an asteroid. Make sure the asteroid is centered directly over the targeting circle when captured. Fly towards Excel at full throttle and aim at the disc shaped series of structures. Release the asteroid and break away to destroy the station. Afterburn to avoid any stray defensive fire. The mission will be complete after Excel explodes.

Mission 48: Darklight (DGGPTXVVB)
This is a very challenging mission that careful use of your ship's energy reserves. Launch from the War Drum and arm the Darklight device. The Darklight device will drain the energy from any ship that is in front of your fighter. Such ships appear darkened on the main viewer and as grey spheres on the scanners. The Darklight device will remain active if you switch primary weapons. However, since its effect is short lived, you must take advantage of your opponents while they are drained. Note that drained ships will re-activate if they leave your field of view. To effectively protect the War Drum, fire the Darklight device when the Ovon ships directly in front of your flight path from launch are in weapons range. Use your laser cannon to destroy the helpless ships, then turn to acquire more attacking Ovons. Do not fire the Darklight device another time, or use any of your drive seeker missiles. The War Drum can be saved by flying at a conservative speed and keeping as many Ovons disabled until they can be destroyed. After the effects of the Darklight device expire, use standard combat techniques with the laser cannon to destroy the surviving Ovons. Enter the hyperspace portal when instructed.

Break left upon exiting the portal to leave the asteroid field. Allow the Ovon fighters within the field to leave that area, then engage them in combat. Once again, use your laser cannon and conserve your other ordinance. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal after destroying all of the Ovon ships. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace. It's essential that you exit the portal at full power.

A group of Ovon Zero-G tanks must be destroyed in this sector. Without the effects of the Darklight device, the tanks are invulnerable to your weapons. Approach within weapons range, drop your throttle to zero, and engage the Darklight device. Quickly use the laser cannon to destroy the tanks. Use the Darklight device a second time to destroy the remaining tanks. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Use the last Darklight device and the drive seeker missiles to protect the War Drum from another wave of attackers. Dock with the War Drum to complete the mission.

Mission 49: The End? (XCWCSDMPD)
Launch from the War Drum and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Afterburn towards the pulse cannon and position your ship directly underneath. Arm your laser cannon and quickly destroy the first Ovon ship that appears below your location. Use a Darklight device to disable the other Ovon ships that have entered this sector and finish them off with laser cannon fire. Pick off any survivors as the Darklight device wears off and the pulse cannon begins to fire. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Fly through this sector and take out the Ovon fighters with your laser cannon. Ignore the larger targets and afterburn away if you are overwhelmed. The pulse cannon in the previous sector will come under attack. Afterburn towards the indicated hyperspace portal. Avoid the anti-matter spheres while flying through hyperspace. It's essential that as much energy be conserved during the jump.

Fire your drive seekers at the Ovon attackers. Enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Attack the remaining Ovon ships in this sector. Use the laser cannon and remaining drive seekers to thin out your opponents. The pulse cannon will begin firing on the major Ovon cities when a certain number of ships have been destroyed. Continue to attack the smaller Ovon ships in this sector. Use the remaining Darklight device tip the odds in your favor when facing a large number of opponents. Keep destroying Ovon ships until the mission is complete.

Watch the destruction sequence of the Ovon Home world.

Mission 50: The Escape Home (SDQTBJVQP)
Leave formation with the War Drum and engage your shields and afterburner. Follow the green mission objective arrow and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Afterburn past the Repton interceptors and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Afterburn towards the indicated hyperspace portal and then turn and engage the Repton fighters. Destroy the bracing unit with your secondary weapon. Enter the unlocked hyperspace portal and collect the energy spheres.

Afterburn past the Repton fleet and enter the indicated hyperspace portal. Collect the energy spheres while flying through hyperspace.

Engage your shields and afterburn when exiting the portal to avoid a Repton missile. Use your drive seekers to destroy the Repton pursuers. Carefully fly through the asteroid field and destroy any asteroids blocking the hyperspace portal. Enter the portal and avoid the anti-matter spheres.

Go to full throttle and allow the Earth fighters to engage the pursuing Repton ships. Engage any Reptons that challenge your ship.

The Earth fighters will escort you back home to complete the game.
Copyright © 1997 Al Amaloo. All rights reserved.