Air Combat is a combat flight simulation game presented in an arcade-like format.[1] The player controls one of sixteen different aircraft,[2] including the F-4 Phantom, Su-27 Flanker, and Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk,[3] and must complete each of the game's seventeen levels, each having mission objectives that must be fulfilled.[4] Missions range from destroying a squadron of enemies, protecting an allied base from enemy fire, or destroying a massive battleship.[4] Completing missions awards the player money, which can be used to purchase new aircraft in their own personal hangar.[4] Extra money can also be earned by destroying optional, "non-target" enemies.[4]
Beginning at the game's fourth mission, a wingman can be employed that will help protect the player and fight alongside them.[4] Additional wingmen can be hired by earning additional money during combat.[4] The game progresses in a linear format.[4] Alongside the main single-player campaign, there is also a split-screen multiplayer deathmatch mode, where two players attempt to destroy each other in the quickest time possible.[4] Players can also unlock new aircraft and special minigames by completing specific objectives at various points throughout the game.[4] Players can also swap between a first-person and third-person camera option.[4]