When I first played Wing Commander Prophecy I have to admit I was a little disappointed. This is because it followed on from Wing Commander IV; the greatest example of story telling in a 90s video game. Great cast, production values etc. Prophecy does not have these things. The plot is adequate, the acting is not up to levels seen in 3 and 4, however it compares favorably to any other FMV title of the era. At the time the lack of conversation branching was disappointing, this would have saved filming costs and production (WCP was only 3 CDs, compared to the 6 of WCIV). However mission branching based on your mission performance remains. Where Prophecy shines is gameplay. With each passing year it becomes harder and harder to return to the other entries, but Prophecy holds its own. The simulator is back, and this is the first title where I really spent some time with that feature; each kill is satisfying With smooth controls, 3D acceleration and a very high quality game engine Wing Commander Prophecy stands the test of time and is the entry in the franchise I return to most frequently.
