Preview: Combat Flight Simulator 2

Since the release of the first Combat Flight Simulator, there has always been a desire to add the Pacific Theater of operations to the CFS "family." With CFS2, that desire has been fulfilled. I recently had the chance to try my hand at the beta version of Microsoft's latest offering and what I found was pretty amazing, even at this early stage in the program's development.

   

Like the previous version, Microsoft has included some of the aircraft used by both sides in the war. In my version, these included such famous aircraft as Mitsubishi "Zero", Kawanishi "George", Lockheed P-38 Lightning, Vought F4U-1A Corsair, Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat, and the Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat. Each aircraft meets today's standards for flightsim aircraft: moving parts, round fuselages, authentic sounds, and accurate flight models to match. Each aircraft also features "weathered textures." So, instead of looking as if they came right from the factory, they will look like they have been earning their keep in the harsh salt-water environment that is the Pacific. And for those with force feedback joysticks, each aircraft has its own unique feedback characteristics.

   

The level of detail extends to the panels. Each gauge has ToolTips that not only tell you what the gauge is, but also the gauge's indications. I found this feature particularly useful when flying the Japanese fighters, whose gauges are in Japanese. Also noteworthy is the new 3D virtual cockpit. Using your joystick's "hatswitch", you'll be able to scroll around the cockpit. The gauges on the virtual cockpit panel work, keeping you informed at all times.

   

What good would CFS be without the weaponry and enemy aircraft to attack? With CFS2, you won't have to worry about that! You will be able to choose the weapons you want. You will also have smarter AI (artificial intelligence) aircraft which are programmed with one thing in mind: blow you out of the sky. Even in the Beta, these aircraft are very challenging. You won't be all alone over the Pacific; you will have wingmen who will save your tail with the simple press of the "H" key. In Quick Combat, you can customize your enemy by selecting their skill level, what type of aircraft they fly (personally, I like going head to head with eight C-47 Dakota transports), and how many aircraft you will encounter. I haven't had so much fun since I discovered flight simming!

   

Combat is all about damage. With CFS2, not only will you be able to inflict it upon others; you will be able to see it as well. Of course, you'll be able to see all the damage done to you, too. The aircraft you shoot down even leave craters in the ground after impact! That's enough for anyone to do a victory roll. If you are the one going down in flames, you can bail out. CFS2 features a fully animated bail out procedure, complete with pilot (yep, he has moving parts too!). Just remember to deploy your parachute, or your flying days are over.

   

The campaigns are another impressive feature. Referred to as active campaigns, the outcome is solely based on how well you perform. Do well and you get promoted. Do poorly and you get to start at the beginning. Each campaign is, according to my Preview Guide, firmly based in history and will end the same way it did all those years ago. Your side may win the campaign, but it's up to you to win the battle you are assigned. Trust me, it's a lot harder than it seems. When you've had your fill of the pre-programmed missions, you can create your own using the new Mission Builder utility.

   

Since Combat Flight Simulator 2: W.W.II Pacific Theater is still in Beta testing, I wasn't able to test all the features of the program most of which have yet to fully implemented. Still, I've had too much fun exploring this program! There is still much work to be done, but the finished product is sure to be every bit as impressive as Microsoft's public relations people would have everyone believe.

   

North American release is expected for October, selling for an anticipated street price of $49.99 USD. Trust me, I have seen the future, and it is good! When it is finally released, I advise you to run, not walk, to your local software outlet.