505 Games recently released details on the handheld versions of 'IL-2 Sturmovik: Birds Of Prey'.

Currently set for a 4 September release, the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions are being developed by Gaijin Entertainment while DiP Interactive and SME Dynamic Systems Limited are taking care of the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP formats respectively.

DiP Interactive's Nintendo DS version of 'IL-2 Sturmovik: Birds of Prey' has sought to employ innovative use of the DS' unique touch screen format by way of counter measure.

Players will be able to take hand draw notes on the in game flight card into battle, to physically record key information such as enemy positions and bombing coordinates. DiP Interactive has made use of the lower screen for flight instruments with the top screen used for gameplay and have managed to cram over 25 planes across 42 missions into a single DS cart.

The DS has been tested to its limits by producing maps that can comprise an area of up to 100x100km, providing ample room for aerial manoeuvre.

SME Dynamic Systems Limited is able to take advantage of the PSP's considerable graphical capabilities and produce a handheld format that bears notable familiarity to the home console versions of IL-2.

The PSP campaign unveils 30 thrilling missions across six major WWII battlefields with over 30 aircraft recreated in stunning detail (14 available for the player to pilot).

The non-linear campaign allows players to pick any mission and unlock new ones as they are completed. There are 16 achievements to gain as well as multiplayer support for two player head to head dogfights on the move.

EntertainmentAfrica.com