There are two types of flight simulators: Those that dumb-down flight mechanics and are more arcade-like, and those that get into the complicated details and nuances of flying.
F.A.S.T., one of only a handful of flight simulator iPhone apps, stands for “Fleet Air Superiority Training!” and falls into the second camp but the gameplay clashes with the simplified nature of the iPhone or iPod touch.
While not as complex as its PC counterparts, F.A.S.T.’s training level will be a good indicator as to whether players they can weather the storm or will want to escape on the ejector seat. It’s a steep learning curve: pitch and roll by tilting your device, throttle by touching your aircraft, as well as control your rudders, afterburner and weapons. That’s before you add the other planes you’ll be fighting against.
Most gamers even familiar with flight sims will have enough trouble navigating the inverted steering, which seems to not be aware of the iPhone or iPod touch’s tilts.
Those who stay strapped in will find other things to gripe about. F.A.S.T. makes you pay to buy additional planes rather than unlock them, so to truly excel you must fork over more cash after buying the game.
Otherwise, a series of challenging dogfights await, and there is added appeal with the ability to play over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The game’s graphics are stellar, but the unfriendly controls might ultimately make many gamers reach for the barf bag instead of their iPhones.
