For aviation enthusiasts seeking an authentic flying experience, the upcomingX-Plane 12is a promising addition to the genre thanks to its dedication to realism.X-Plane 12is compatible withvirtual realityheadsets and is geared toward truly recreating the many facets of aviation from interacting with air traffic control through radio operation to dealing with instrument failure and other emergencies.
Among the earliest types of simulation games, flight simulators have filled an important niche as both a legitimate training method for real-world pilots and as a way for consumers to get as close to the real deal as possible without the financial burden or other risks associated with private aviation. While more casualflying games likeAce Combatgo for a simple arcade-style approach to aviation, true flight simulators tend to be far more complex and are practically a hobby in themselves. TheX-Planeseries developed by Laminar Research since 1995 has maintained a solid reputation thanks to exceptionally realistic flight models.
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Laminar Research recently released the official trailer forX-Plane 12, which shows off a number of the simulator’s key features and improvements. A lot of attention was given to the environment, with seasonal effects changing the weather and even trees to progress through the year, detailed water where pilots can practice seaplane operation, and atmospheric effects like microbursts and turbulence that affect handling in the air. Volumetric clouds, a constantly evolving weather system, and photometric lighting make for some stunning visuals, andsupport for VR headsetslike the Valve Index makes it incredibly immersive. The trailer also reveals that X-Plane 12 will be fully released in December 2022.
Unlike the widelypopularMicrosoft Flight Simulatorand other titles,X-Plane 12is unique in that it is FAA-approved for training purposes. Although some special equipment is required in order to log training hours for FAA certification purposes, it speaks to the quality of the simulation that one can genuinely learn to fly real-world aircraft thanks toX-Plane. As with any flight simulator,X-Planeis best experienced with dedicated flight controls like the Honeycomb Alpha and Bravo yoke and throttle system which mimics the layout of actual aircraft, although it can be played with VR touch controls, mouse and keyboard, HOTAS, or a combination of peripherals.
Thanks to the level of detail, customization, and support for community-made planes,X-Plane 12looks like it will be a worthy addition to the libraries of gamers, pilots, and fans ofgreat VR simulators.
X-Plane 12is currently in Early Access and will fully release on PC in December 2022.
