Microsoft leads the way in real simulation games. For years, hobbyists have enjoyed taking to the skies in Microsoft Flight Simulator. The passion for simulations evolved over time, and Microsoft has been there to help guide hobbyists and fans to new simulations along the way. This year, Microsoft shows off its next incarnations of its flagship title, Flight Simulator, as well as the second edition of Trains Simulator. Both of these titles might appear simplistic and slow to the standards of modern action and shooter games, but the developers at Microsoft are sure of the fact that fans of the simulation titles are eager for more. These two titles definitely work hard to provide just that.
The original Trains Simulator gave the world of model train builders and hobbyists a little bit of recognition for their craft. With Trains Simulator 2, Microsoft is delivering more to the playing field. Taking requests directly from its fan base, Trains Simulator 2 includes some excellent trains, tracks, and elements. Players will be able to travel across tracks and navigate through detailed territories found all over the world. Historic areas of land include detailed countrysides with animated townsfolk and vehicles.
Cars can be seen driving alongside the train tracks, and people will interact with their surroundings, whether it means jumping aboard the train or throwing a fit over a broken car. Cabs of the train are also modeled in 3D and you watch the interaction of passengers aboard your train. Clothing and surroundings in Trains Simulator 2 are even modeled to integrate with the proper time period of a specific train and track.
Flight Simulator fans are also in for a well received present Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight not only includes the standard upgrades in modern flight craft, such as the Lockheed or Cessna, but also will receive nine brand new planes that recreate some of the most historic moments in flight. From vintage WWI-era dog planes, to the very first plane ever invented by the Wright Brothers, Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight recreates these events stunningly, and it puts you in control. Imagine performing one of those amazing acts with more precision than the original event.
Microsoft isn?t stopping there. They have also put in some effort to providing a fully three-dimensional cockpit with interactive controls. Pilots can now actually toggle switches and perform procedures in an environment that mimics reality to a tee. Interactive pilot models also add to the effect of realism. With over 23,000 airports and some rather impressive landmarks and sights, Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight will definitely appeal to the pilot in all of us. Internet updates of real weather conditions can even let players feel like they are really in the middle of the storm as it occurs in real life.
The future of Simulation titles are definitely in good hands with Microsoft at the helm. Trains Simulator 2 and Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight boasts some real potential for the future of simulation and the art.
