In detox because you miss the Contra era side-scrollers of old? Well my friends go get your fix at ArcadePod.
Heli Attack 3 isn't exactly Contra but it's pseudo-three-dimensional side-scrolling action is close enough.

With a variety of weapons and some time shifting abilities the game offers ample distraction from the real world. With over 30 weapons there are a host of possible ways to destroy the enemies. But the enemies are somewhat lacking overall.

When you clear each Zone you unlock a new weapon. Weapons can drop from destroyed enemies and you only need run over them to pick them up. Each of the weapons has a different reload time, clip size, and amage ability so they're not just a different look for the exact same weapon.

Controls are simple and clear. Standard W,A,S,D for movement, jumping and crouching and the mouse to aim and shoot as well as switch weapons with the mouse wheel. Other keys take care of other functions like switching and activating the time alteration controls and weapons. I did have a problem with keeping the mouse in the game area which had the effect of freezing my character. It was rather annoying and could simply be solved by a larger play screen.

The graphics, for a flash game, are fantastic and you have three possible levels of detail depending on how hefty your computer is. This enables nearly everyone to play the game. I just wish there was a way to resize the game window as it's a little small on my 1400x1050 display.

The music on the level summary needs work as it just sounds like a 5 second drum loop and is redundant and annoying. I wanted to turn it off but couldn't find a command for it. The music in the actual levels is pretty cool I must say. I didn't even notice it until I started writing the review.

Zones are broken into levels and several zones are in place including an Arctic Zone, a Jungle Zone, a Canyon Zone and a Lab Zone. Points are awarded on each kill as well as a health bonus at the end of each level for remaining health. There are no health packs in this game so it's imperative that you pay attention to it. There are even daily, weekly and monthly high score listings.

Overall the game is extremely well developed and I enjoyed playing it. As a matter of fact I have gone back again and again and played through it several times. It's a fantastic example of what can be accomplished with determination, time and a knowledge of Flash. It's not so difficult that it's frustrating, as a matter of fact I think the game balance is great.

Score: 95%

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