With a gazillion fantasy free MMORPGs available out there, playing a game that's not about orcs and elves feels like a breath of fresh air. Heroes in the Sky, a free-to-play combat-flight-simulator MMOG, is exactly that: invigorating.

The game is set in World War II and the faction choices given to the player are limited to Axis or Allies. You character is not limited to just one plane, on the contrary there are numerous flying contraptions that anyone can unlock and pilot if certain requirements are met. Each of these planes can then be customized from load-out perspective (guns, engines, propellers, etc) to improve their performance and efficiency on the battlefield. Planes are generally split into four major categories: Common, Fighter, Gunner and Bomber There are also skills that can be improved as one levels up and they play an important role in a dogfight and can even make the difference between winning and losing, between living and dying. PVP is limited to instanced battleground with free for all or team deathmatch rule sets.

Being a free to play MMOG, Heroes in the Sky has premium content that can be unlocked with real money. Many of the items that can be purchased have an active period and in that period add a certain bonus to the player (increased hit points, damage, etc.). Once that active period is over the bonus is removed. So in other words, the items are not actually for sale, but for rent.

Easily the very best feature in Heroes in the Sky is the adrenaline fueled dog-fights. Most MMO games of today reward players with victory through their gear, stats and available items, rather than the preferred skill-based platform. Heroes in the Sky is entirely different, players emerge victorious from battle based on their skill against their opponent. Just because you have a better plane, don't feel like you're guaranteed a win because that's not the case. Even the best planes in the game can lose a battle to a new player if they have better flying ability and accuracy than their opponent.

The highly appealing skill-based reward system means that even brand new players can enter the game and instantly earn a reputation among the most experienced veterans if they're able to look after themselves in the air. Whether you choose a fighter plane with speed, or a more heavily armored option, the real calculation used to determine your success in battle is your personal ability, don't let yourself down pilot!