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About Cleared Hot
Cleared Hot is a top-down helicopter action game from indie developer Cfinger Games, published by MicroProse Software. Released on November 20, 2025, it blends fast-paced shooting with physics-based mechanics like rope grappling and magnetic object manipulation. Set in a 2D battlefield, you command a chopper to clear zones, rescue squads, and destroy targets while dodging enemy fire. The game emphasizes quick reflexes and tactical positioning, with a retro-inspired art style. It’s a short, punchy experience designed for players who want arcade-style action with a twist of creative gadget use.
Gameplay
In Cleared Hot, you control a helicopter using WASD to move and mouse aiming for shooting. The core loop revolves around navigating levels while picking up allies, avoiding obstacles, and eliminating threats. Your rope lets you drag debris to block enemy fire or create paths, while the magnet pulls in metallic objects for shields or fuel. Each level forces you to balance aggression and evasion, divebombing enemies risks taking damage, but holding back means letting squads run out of time. Missions mix open combat with precision tasks, like rescuing civilians or clearing explosive hazards. The controls feel responsive but have a learning curve, especially when managing multiple systems at once.
What Players Think
Cleared Hot holds a 4.3/5 on PlayPile, with 88% of players completing it. The average session is 12 hours, though 62% of players report getting stuck on late-game levels due to tight difficulty scaling. Community moods skew focused (70%) and relaxed (45%), with many praising the magnet system’s “satisfying” physics. Critics at GameSpot call it “a clever, if brief, twist on the shooter genre” but note “repetitive level design.” The game’s 50+ achievements (1200 points) track completion metrics and creative play, like using the magnet to deflect missiles. Price-wise, it’s $29.99, which some argue is steep for its 10-15 hour runtime.
PlayPile's Take
Cleared Hot is a niche pick for fans of physics-driven arcade action. It shines in short bursts, with its magnet and rope systems offering fresh mechanics that stand out in the genre. However, the price-to-playtime ratio feels off for a game with limited replay value. If you enjoy tactical helicopter combat and don’t mind a rough difficulty spike, it’s worth the cost. Skip it if you prefer deeper narratives or open-world exploration. The achievements add some longevity, but don’t expect a marathon experience.
Game Modes
Single player
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