PMDG 737 NGX Farming-Simulator Farming ... - James Woodcock

SIMULATOR-NEWSAirbus X Extended Edition for FS-X and Prepar3DThe Airbus A320 family is one of the most successfulstories in aviation history. The first productionaircraft worldwide to feature the fly-by-wireavionic system and constructed from lightweightmaterials to make enormous reductions in flightcosts, it revolutionised aviation as we know it. Inaddition, this series has lead to Airbus becomingone of the biggest aircraft manufacturers in theworld.The Airbus X Extended Edition is the sequel to thesuccessful Airbus X product released by Aerosoftin 2010. This new version contains features muchmore complex, realistic navigation instrumentsand a newly developed fly-by-wire logic. Each stageof the flight can now be simulated even morerealistically in FS-X. Flying this plane is the logicalstep for all virtual pilots that want to explore morecomplex systems.Highlights:A320 and A321 models with a lot of paintings(plus Paint Kit)Enormous system depth including updateable NavigraphDatabase.Precision flight model, highly innovative and interactivecheck list that supports you in every stageof the flightExternal model and virtual cockpit, designed usinglatest technology. Very good refresh rate.Sound modules for all cockpit functions as well asa high resolution sound system.AES (Airport Enhancement Services) integrated.Realistic light effects including reflections.Existing Airbus X users can take advantage of anupgrade optionFor further information, see www.aerosoft.com6SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

SIMULATOR-NEWSEEP eisenbahn.exe 9.0 professionalWould you like to design your own virtual railwayworld that can hardly be distinguished from reality?True fans have known for a long time thatEEP is the most capable 3D train simulation on themarket. You will be amazed at the commendableattention to detail that allows you to enjoy theseemingly never-ending depth of this simulation.Over 100 hours of development time is requiredto design one single model making this the onlytrain simulator to offer you such convincing accuracy- even the smallest blade of grass sways in theairstream of a passing train.Live your passion for trains with EEP – the mostfun you can have with a simulator! Key features:3650 faithful models4 ready-to-use layoutsdynamic weather systemprofessional schedule managementprofessional camera system3D-editor for signals, rolling stock, railroad tracksand authentic environmentsIncludes a signal book (PDF)The 64-bit-EXPERT-Version includes the followingpremium features:Faster access - more models - bigger individual installations.Completely flexible routes -gentle inclines, tracksuper elevation to roller coaster-like routing withloops and corkscrews. Camera position for vehiclescan be defined; movie-like blending glares invideo recordings. Automatic speed supervision.New cutting possibilities, camera sequences canbe subtitled. Reliable anti-collision control for vehicles.For further information, see www.eep4u.deSIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 7

SIMULATOR-NEWSLe Bourget - Mondial de la Simulation 2012Aerosoft was there – at the Mondial de la Simulation2012 in Le Bourget. For the first time, Aerosoftpresented X-Plane products at their exhibitionstand and it is safe to say: it has been more successfulthan ever!Also present: the partner team representing Sim-Ware Simulations; they could sell many hardwareproducts to simulation enthusiasts.Simulator World Magazin in PDF-formatSimulator World can be read more comfortably ona wide screen where you can view two pages together.To do this, click “View Page Display TwoPages” in your Adobe Acrobat. Texts and picturesare partly linked with internet domains. When clickingon these buttons, your browser opens thecorresponding web address.Frank MöllenhofChief editor Simulator WORLDmoellenhof@simulatorworld.deIt was all about speed at some of the stands presentingrace cars or cockpits that visitors could trythemselves. Around the stand, visitors admiredhuge and impressing airliners.Lots of front boxes and demo videos ensured a variedexhibition.All of the new Aerosoft products were on full displaywith lots of demo videos and samples of packagingensured that we had much interest andenthusiasm.Aerosoft also had a special surprise – boardingpass vouchers. You want to have one, too? Thenext time you order from Aerosoft, you will findyour voucher in your box ready to use in our onlineshop!8SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

BAUMREIHE BR143 „EXPERT-LINE“Zu der neuen Oberleitung gibt esauch die neukonstruierten FreileitungenComputer andnature in harmonyHEADLINE by Martin Fuchs ROTKLEINFreilebende Gummibärchen gibt es nicht. Mankauft sie in Packungen an der Kinokasse. DieserKauf ist der Beginn einer fast erotischen und sehrambivalenten Beziehung Gummibärchen-Mensch.Zuerst genießt man. Dieser Genuß umfaßt alleSinne. Man wühlt in den Gummibärchen, manfühlt sie. Gummibärchen haben eine Konsistenzwie weichgekochter Radiergummi.Die Tastempfindung geht auch ins Sexuelle. Dasbedeutet nicht unbedingt, daß das Verhältniszum Gummibärchen ein geschlechtliches wäre,denn prinzipiell sind diese geschlechtsneutral.Nun sind Gummibärchen weder wabbelig nochzäh; sie stehen genau an der Grenze. Auch dasmacht sie spannend. Gummibärchen sind auf eineaufreizende Art weich. Und da sie weich sind,kann man sie auch ziehen. Ich mache das sehrgerne. Ich sitze im dunklen Kino und ziehe meineGummibärchen in die Länge, ganz ganz langsam.Zwischen Karlsruhe und BaselMan hat ein Gefühl der Macht über das hilflose,nette Gummibärchen. Und wie man damitumgeht: Mensch erkenne dich selbst! Jetzt ist esso, daß Gummibärchen ja nicht gleich Gummibärchenist. Ich bevorzuge das klassische Gummibärchen,künstlich gefärbt und aromatisiert.Mag sein, daß es eine Sentimentalität ist. Jedenfallshalte ich nichts von neuartigen Alternativ-Gummibärchen ohne Farbstoff (»Mütter, mit vielVitamin C«), und auch unter den konventionellentummeln sich schwarze Schafe: die schwarzenLakritz-Bärchen. Wenn ich mit Xao im Kino bin,red ich ihm so lange ein, daß das die besten sind,bis er sie alle ißt. Sie schmecken scheußlich undfühlen sich scheußlich an. Dagegen das schöne,herkömmliche Gummibärchen: allein wie es neonhaftvom Leinwandleuchten illuminiert, aberganz ohne die Kühle der Reklameröhren!Man will sie nicht kaputtmachen, und dann siegtdoch die Neugier, wieviel Zug so ein Bärchen aushält.(Vorstellbar sind u.a. Gummibärchen-Expanderfür Kinder und Genesende). Forscherdrangund gleichzeitig das Böse im Menschen erreichenden Climax, wenn sich die Mitte des gezerrtenBärchens von Millionen Mikrorissen weiß färbtund gleich darauf das zweigeteilte Stück auf dieFinger zurückschnappt.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 9

SIMULATOR-NEWSLANDWIRTSCHAFTS-SIMULATORFARMING-SIMULATORSome have already heard of it, others already have it: the ultimate fun for hobby farmers.Some Germans even call it “Landi”. But what is the fascination of this programme allabout? Is it the tasks? Is it the machines? Or even the virtual agriculture and scenery? Let’stake a look together at a new chapter of computer simulation.Farming-Simulator - Platin EditionSimulations have a long history. I just have to thinkabout Sim City, which was running on my 386 PC.As a youngster I could dive into it for hours. Later,when Microsoft Train Simulator came to the market,my luck was perfect. This remained because Icould not imagine any enhancement.Since a couple of years ago, simulators grew likemushrooms on the ground and I was quite surprisedby the possibilities in the „Sim-Scene“. Unfortunately,I am very choosy concerning my demands.From this point of view, the visuals of mostsimulators looked OK to me, but not the gamesthemselves.I had the impression that games were only producedto make quick money. Quality of content wasnot a top priority.About this reason I was quite pessimistic aboutFarming Simulator (FS). „Probably some game forvisual freaks, without deeper sense...“ But I wasdisabused and can openly say that the makers ofFarming Simulator have released a real hit!!!OverviewAnyone who is interested will ask now: What is itabout exactly? Farming Simulator‘s goal is to implementthe working cycle from a farmer as realas it gets. Thereby, not only agricultural machinesare in focus, also weather, the trading market foragricultural products and the right working stepswhile tilling the fields must be recommended.This way, the game also provides an economy simulation.Without the right management there isno successful harvest and also no money to afforda larger and more powerful farm!Base for all of this is the included map. On thismap, the “hobby farmer“ can find all necessary facilitieswhich are needed for a successful start.The most important facilities are a gristmill, thedairy, the harbour, the brewery, the biogas plantand, of course, the own farm as well as the nearestfarming shop.Besides this, there is also a huge amount of fieldsand endowments like a chair lift, maze, castle ruin,modern town with church and a parking place atthe beach for lovers.Of course, alongside agriculture there is the opportunityto do cattle industry. For this purpose,there is a cow pasture situated in the north of themap.It also was a nice idea to spend the farmer someperks. Since the release of the DLC Pack1, 2 and3, there is also the option included to earn froma biogas plant. Wind power and solar energy can10SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

FARMING--SIMULATORalso fill up the wallet of a busy farmer. At last,glasshouses and hives offer the opportunity tomake profit.How does Farming Simulator work?Playing the Farming Simulator Platinum Edition,you now have the possibility to farm togetherwith multiple players via the internet or LAN.The respective players act cooperatively and helpeach other out.That’s why, choosing this mode, you have the optionto either start a new game or join an existinggame. In the first case, other players have to joinyour game. For more information, please consultthe manual.In the second case, you can choose from a list ofcurrently available games. In case you need specialmods (DLC packs, etc.), these need to be installedas well in order to get the game started.To round up the matter, you have the possibilityto communicate with your teammates using thekey T (chat). Furthermore, it’s possible to transfermoney to your teammates (key L).For more information, please visit the forum www.landwirtschafts-simulator.de/index.php?lang=en.Before talking about the actual game, a coupleof important facts about the options: In additionto graphic details such as screen resolution, antialiasing or the hardware profile, there are threefurther aspects that are worth having a closer lookat. Let’s start with the time scale.This is what controls the simulation’s speed. In caseyou switch to real time, you play a 1:1 game, i.e.time goes by as in real life.Other than that, there are even more possible settingsthat accelerate the game speed. Just try andfind out what suits you best.I will come back to this topic later on and give yousome special advice!The button “Automatic Help” can be quite usefulfor beginners as it introduces a couple of shortcutsthat can help you handling the machines. Just ensurethat X is activated.The same applies for the menu item “steeringwheel or gamepad”. This option allows connectingsaid devices.Concerning the steering wheel, I cannot yet makea statement. But I bought an “Xbox” to simplifycontrolling agricultural machinery which reallypaid off.In the past, I used a keyboard and even after weeksnever quite achieved such a driving style as with acontroller. If you use “Landi”, let’s say, more thantwice a week, a controller is strongly recommended!As to sounds and music, the game provides realisticenvironmental and machinery sounds duringthe game itself!Let the game begin...After so many tips, the time has finally come tostart the simulator. I more or less completed the“tutorial missions” under the menu item “missions”.So, I click on “career” and choose a new gamewhich saves my progress. After that, I choose oneof the three degrees of difficulty and click on mydesired map.In our case, I have not yet downloaded anothermap from the internet so I choose the game’s defaultmap.The degree of difficulty influences the amountof money and raw material you have available atthe beginning of the game. Now, click on the startbutton and the game begins.At the beginning, you are on your farm and owntwo old tractors, two old combine harvesters, atrailer, an old sewing machine, an old plough, anold cultivator as well as a field sprayer.As I am having a small farm myself in real life, Idecide to start by ploughing a new field.So, I either walk to my desired tractor or press theTAB key until my desired tractor appears. Afterwards,you hitch the plough and off I go to mySIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 11

LANDWIRTSCHAFTS-SIMULATORFARMING-SIMULATORUsing a Kuhn rear mower(add-on 2), small areasare mowed in no time.Starting off as a new farmer,you only have simplemachines for threshinglike an older model withoutan enclosed cabin.You use a front loaderfor putting straw balesonto the conveyor belt.But you will need some“skillfulness” workingwith the keyboard or thegame pad!!12SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

FARMING--SIMULATORchosen field (It cannot hurt to print out a copy ofyour map to improve your orientation).Now, you should use the implemented cruise controllevels. Otherwise, driving and steering can bea little arduous!Once I have arrived at my field, I put the tractorin a corner, sink the plough, start a lower cruisecontrol level and press key H.This results in the tractor ploughing automatically.The game then explains that you have hired anassistant.Of course, this option is very useful as you can alreadydo other work in the meantime. Using theTAB key, you can always check whether the work isalready done or if a problem has occurred.It goes without saying that this option costs moneywhich is deducted from your account.But you don’t have to worry about an empty accountas it is only a very small amount.If you prefer threshing right from the start, youcan work with your combine harvester on a ripefield.Next up, we hitch the sewing machine to a secondtractor, fill it on our farm (a white “i” shows uswhere various actions can take place) and drive itonto the field.Having arrived there, we sink the sewing machine,choose the desired type (grass, wheat, barley,rape or corn) and restart the process as previouslydescribed.Once the desired culture has reached the first stage,you start spraying it using the field sprayer. Itis the same procedure as with the sewing machineexcept for the missing option to hire an assistant.But the whole step does not take too long andafter having sprayed everything (the soil coloursdark!) we start preparing for the threshing.After the grain has become ripe (it also coloursdark!), we go to the field with a combine harvester,a fitting cutter bar as well as a tractor includinga trailer.Of course, you cannot thresh grass. You have tomow grass using a mower, but that’s a whole differentstory.Once you have arrived at your field, you begin bysinking the cutter bar, switching it on, choosing alow cruise control level and hiring an assistant.Once the third bar has reached 100%, it’s necessaryto put the grain on the trailer (When you areSIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 13

LANDWIRTSCHAFTS-SIMULATORFARMING--SIMULATORin a vehicle, you see four bars on the bottom rightside.The first one displays the speed, the second one indicatesthe current account balance, the third onerepresents the respective fill level, for example,field sprayer, sewing machine or trailer load.The fourth one displays the fuel supply of your vehicle).In case your trailer is fully loaded, you presskey i and the PDA appears.Here, you have the possibility, besides weatherforecasts and environmental maps, to check currentgrain quotations (prices at the port, at themill, etc.).You reach the individual menus by clicking on the“arrow button”. By pressing the key 9, you canswitch from one side to another.In case you are not satisfied with the current prices,you can also put your goods in your own silosand sell them later on. If everything’s okay, youcan instantly drive the load to the buyer and getback to the combine harvester, which, in the meantime,can drive automatically.Once the field is completely threshed, the wholeprocedure starts over with one difference: Thistime you can also use a cultivator instead of aplough!At least, that’s the case in reality (with the exceptionof a corn or meadow break. I’m going to talkabout real life at the end of my report).If you want, you can make the straw into strawbales using a baler (there a two different machinesavailable). But this only becomes interesting asyour account balance increases.Livestock breeding in Farming-SimulatorOf course, you have the opportunity to breedlivestock. This version is restricted to cattle. Theyare not available from the start, but need to bebought at a trader.After having bought them, it is of course essentialto familiarize yourself with supplying the animals.This “supply or care” requires a lot of time! Pieceof advice: Take care of farming first and start livestockbreeding after that.Animals need food and, in our case, produce milk.But manure and liquid manure are also significanttopics. At first, grass is enough for feedinganimals. If not available, you need to sew it andsubsequently mow it.You aerate it using a tedder in order to speed-upthe drying process and thus put it in a row with awaft.14 SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

FARMING-SIMULATORNow it is possible to transport the gained hay tothe animals using a trailer. According to “i”, youalso have the possibility to make the dried hayinto bales if you have chosen the small meadownext to the farm (in front of the dealer for agriculturalmachinery).Moreover, it is possible to mow grass and feed it tothe animals with the “Krone Big X1000” plus the“Krone X Disc Direct Cutter Bar”.But this machine is very expensive! If you want toincrease your milk production, you can also feedcorn chaff to your cows. This augments milk productionby 50% and pays off financially. But everythinghas its price.In livestock farming, it is necessary to dispose of liquidmanure on your field. Additionally, you needto transport manure to your fields and meadowsusing a manure spreader.For this, you need a front loader which is hitchedto your tractor! All in all, quite intense activities.Add-On No 2An official add-on no 2 has been released for theFarming Simulator Platinum Edition.It contains 22historical agricultural machines starting with the“Tracker” by Bucher (CH) from 1961, to a GüldnerG40 tractor (D) or a Lindner BF450 (A).In addition to these, there is also a Fahr M66 combineharvester (D) from 1967 that weighs 3200kg!Today, that’s unimaginable! Another machine isthe original Bucher grass loader (CH) from 1970.As to smaller machines, I would like to mentiona fertilizer sprayer with a volume of 330l, a cultivatorfrom 1954 (working width: 2.54m), a Hassiasewing machine, a tedder, a corn chopper, a rearmower or several historical tankers.For my test run, I chose the Güldner G40 featuringa front loader, the Buchser TRL 2600 grass loader,the Krone fertilizer sprayer, the Fahr tedder, thePöttinger rotary tedder, the Kuhn rear mower aswell as the Lizard liquid manure tank.Of course, you cannot expect too much from thesemachines, but nevertheless it was fun!I very much enjoyed the loader which was a realgain for the fleet of vehicles as long as you areonly working smaller areas!This applies for all machines in this add-on. Butthey are rather meant for having fun and not forprofitable money making! It does not need to bepointed out that the machines are built with a lotof love for details. The installation did not causeany problems.An internet connection is not required (you findthe product key in the DVD box).The manual isprinted completely in colour, gloss print and theself-propelled agricultural machines are presentedon individual pages.In addition, there are numerous technical details.All in all, a clear buy recommendation for enthusiastsof “former agriculture” and history freaksalike!Outlook and conclusionAccording to Giants Software, the Farming Simulator2013 is going to be released in October 2012.In addition to new machines, it is also going to bepossible to keep new animals on your virtual farm:www.farming-simulator.com.For me, the Farming Simulator as a whole hasmade a very positive impression and guaranteesfun for a very long time.Martin FuchsInfoboxP r o d u c t _ S p e c i f i c a t i o n s :Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista orWindows 7, 2.0 GHz Intel or equivalentAMD processor, Nvidia Geforce 7600 Series,ATI Radeon X1600 graphics card orbetter (min 256 MB VRAM) 1 GB RAM2 GB free hard drive space SoundcardDVD-ROM Drivewww.farming-simulator.comSIMULATOR WORLD 10/201215

RRP.£24.99RELEASE DATES:OUT NOW!! - PC12th Oct - MACwww.excalibur-publishing.com16 Circus World © 2012 Excalibur Publishing Limited.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

Train Simulator2013by James Woodcockvon Benjamin Ebrecht17

TRAIN SIMULATOR 2013The ICE 3 as well as the Munich – Augsburg route are partof the German Box Version of Train Simulator 2013.Train Simulator 2013 - First LookFor decades an ever increasing collection of dedicatedindividuals have looked upon their relationshipwith locomotives with a sense of prideand deep respect - with roots often firmly set ineither steam, diesel or electric. No matter whereour own loyalties reside, the latest installment ofTrain Simulator will take you aboard for a journeythat is sure to encourage our admiration for thesewonderful living breathing technological marvels.You may know the series already that began itslife as Rail Simulator, became RailWorks and finallysettled on the more recognisable title of ‘Train Simulator’.Train Simulator 2013 continues the fascinatingand sincere efforts of the railsimulator.comdevelopers in bringing some of the very best momentsin rail simulation to the PC platform.On numerous occasions I have interviewed theteam behind this particular series and it certainlydoesn’t take long for you to recognise the passion,experience and talent this particular team possess.Therefore I always enter into each new releasewith a sense of great expectation, so let’s delveinto Train Simulator 2013.Visual FidelityFirst we should quickly take a wander back intoTrain Simulator 2012 territory just to recap. Inthis release, we were introduced to the TSX engine.Armed with a PC capable of high quality graphics,train simulation had never looked so splendid.With new lighting capabilities, atmosphericshadows and other visual adjustments - this newgraphical engine transformed what was already adecent looking title into a whole new territory ofrealism.Train Simulator 2013 isn’t as revolutionary as itspredecessor, however there are strong efforts toimprove the high standard already established.There are improvements in efficiency with the TSXengine, which can increase frame-rates resultingin smoother on-screen animations. Additionalweather effects including heavy storms featuringlightning and thunder also make an appearance,increasing the tension in countries where this hasmore of a role - in particular the routes based inthe US.RailSimulator.com have promised that if you arerunning Train Simulator 2012 successfully on yourPC, you will have no issues with this latest edition.AudioAlthough the visuals were top notch, the audiosystem relied on the now dated EAX technologyto add reverbs and other environmental audio effects.There is however a more modern standardthat has a greater industry support among variousbrands and this is known as OpenAL.18

TRAIN SIMULATOR 2013OpenAL provides compatible soundcards withhardware acceleration when processing the manydifferent sounds that occur simultaneously, whilealso featuring the audio effects required to givethe impression you are in a particular environment.For example, waiting in a station you expecta sense of a vast open space and this is recreatedby adding a touch of reverb and other cleveraudio techniques.Not only will OpenAL improve performance, butwill also increase the sense of realism within thevarious surroundings.InterfaceThe menu systems are far more visual now, replacingmany of the endless lists that greeted you inprevious incarnations..The ‘Collections’ screen reveals all of your contentas well as purchasable downloadable content(DLC), presented with Windows 8 tile-likegraphics. No longer are you looking for a bit oftext to identify the locomotive, instead an actualimage awaits your attention with filters that addadditional assistance when narrowing down youroptions. This is particularly useful for beginnerswho have yet to learn the various locomotive designationsyet know the design.When driving your locomotive, you will instantlyrecognise an improved user interface. The HeadsUp Display (HUD) layout has been tweaked to betterdetail the statistics regarding your locomotiveas well as adding further information regardinginertia that before was limited to only the Careermode.For those who wish to admire more of the actualenvironment or internal cab controls, a less intrusivesmaller HUD is now available, a slimmer variantdetailing only the very basic data needed to operatethe locomotive.The 2D map is also improved by revealing the tasklist in conjunction with this display, revealing thekey points where the tasks are performed allowingyou to plan further ahead.Quick DriveFor those yearning for a more casual experienceafter a particularly tough day in the office, QuickDrive should be right up your siding.‘Free Roam’ allowed you to jump into a particularroute and select from a set of locomotives predefinedby the developers that were idling on the railsnearby. Although you could explore the route toyour hearts content, there wasn’t a great deal ofcustomisation for the locomotives or very muchSIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 19

TRAIN SIMULATOR 2013else. You were locked in to what the developersdeemed appropriate.Quick Drive changes all of this, by allowing you toselect from a huge array of options. These includeselecting the time of day, season, weather conditions,locomotive, locomotive livery, route, startand destination locations.For the first time, without any knowledge of routeediting - you can enjoy every last morsel of yourpurchased content to its absolute maximum withvariations that suit your own particular tastes.Quick Drive even includes AI locomotives that passby on occasion to give the impression of a fullyworking scenario.ContentThe locomotives and routes from previous incarnationsare no longer standard with the product andinstead, a new selection of routes and locomotivesare available that are all optimised for Train Simulator2013.For those who purchase Train Simulator 2013, routesinclude:Sherman HillLondon to BrightonNortheast CorridorIsle of WightLocomotives include:ES44ACSD70MSW10SD40-2Class 377 ElectrostarAEM-7Class 483 (1938 tube stock)0-4-0 Saddle TankThere will also be a ‘Deluxe’ version released a fewweeks after the initial launch of Train Simulator2013 that includes the Munich-Augsburg routewith ICE 3M Class 406 as an added extra.If Train Simulator 2013 is your first foray into thisseries, the standard content you will have missedin previous versions will now be available aspurchasable DLC - fully upgraded to take advantageof the new capabilities of the product.For those who are upgrading from Train Simulator2012 to 2013, I will explain how this affects you indetail later within the article.MultiplayerThe community have been crying out for multiplayerfeatures to be included in a future releaseand indeed the railsimulator.com team have beenkeen to recognise that this is an area they wouldSIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 21

TRAIN SIMULATOR 2013love to pursue if a little unclear on how best toachieve this.Although true multiplayer appears still to be a distantdream, a compromise has been released inthis latest title providing a decent stepping stonefor what may lay ahead.Known as ‘Relay Play’ you take it upon yourself tooperate half of a set selection of tasks. This mayinclude passenger runs or shunting scenarios, butthe key is then to pass on the rest of the requiredactivities to a friend on your Steam account.The pressure is certainly on as your performancewill have an effect on whoever takes on the secondhalf of the tasks.It’s not multiplayer in the strictest sense where youare both simultaneously running tasks, howeverit does at least involve other enthusiasts in yourgameplay experiences.Xbox 360 ControllerAs a console gamer, I have tested various gamepadsover the years and for me the Xbox 360 controlleris one of the best if not the best available.It is then of no surprise that Train Simulator 2013takes it upon itself to take advantage of this wonderfuldevice, allowing the player to easily navigatethe menus and operate the locomotives.Of course, there are those who will scoff at thislatest development and will instead stick to theclassic keyboard controls. This is absolutely fineand whether you use the keyboard, mouse or nowthe Xbox 360 controller - your experience of TrainSimulator 2013 will continue to be a positive one.The Xbox 360 controller offers definite advantagesthough, utilising the internal vibration motorsfor starters. This provides a sense of movementand an impression of the forces acting upon yourlocomotive as you progress on your journey.For those with large screen HDTVs, the prospect ofhooking up your computer or notebook and relaxingcomfortably on your sofa with the Xbox 360controller in hand is a wonderful reality.Let’s be honest, sitting with a keyboard and mousein this environment just isn’t practical.A wired Xbox 360 controller plugs straight intoyour PC via USB for a no fuss setup, although wirelessversions are also available although this requiresadditional hardware.Steam WorkshopThe community are now given the opportunity tocreate scenarios for Train Simulator 2013, whichare shared between users for free. These are rated22SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

TRAIN SIMULATOR 2013In the driver’s cabin of theES44AC; the locomotiveis a new development forTrain Simulator 2013.ICE 3 at the main stationin Munich which hasbeen designed in veryfaithful and realistic way.A new and clearly organizedmenu with images;the own collection dividedinto categories. Youcan use filters for a carefulselection.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 23

TRAIN SIMULATOR 2013by the players, with the best prominently situatedat the top of the pile.Eventually this will open up additional communitycreation capabilities including customised liveries.UpgradingOne of the more curious aspects of Train Simulator2013 is its upgrade path. Akin to previous releases,Train Simulator 2013 will automatically updateyour Train Simulator 2012 purchase for free.This will include the new user interface, controls,menu options, Quick Drive and Steam Workshopintegration.The graphical and audio improvements are a welcomeadvancement, the Quick Drive feature amuch needed addition that has been sorely missingand the Xbox 360 controller support adds awhole new layer of connection with the simulatedworld.Train Simulator 2013 continues to push forward,constantly looking over the horizon for the nextadvancement and with every release - new excitingdevelopments improving our experiences areunveiled.James Woodckockhttp://twitter.com/jameswoodcockFantastic, however how about the additionalroutes and locomotives?These are already available to purchase as individualDLC packages, although railsimulator.comrightly recommend you purchase the full versionof Train Simulator 2013 regardless so you benefitfrom all the extra content at a much cheaper pricethan if you were to download all the packs of DLC.Feels a little bit unusual that even though you areupgraded for free to the latest version, you arethen encouraged to purchase the product - howeverif the new content appeals to your own inclinations,the advice is indeed sound.For existing Train Simulator 2012 users, all of thestandard TS 2012 content including Newcastle toYork, Bath to Templegreen and other bundledroutes will be upgraded for free when availableto utilise all of the new features of Train Simulator2013 - in particular the improved graphical capabilities.Final ThoughtsWe were spoiled with Train Simulator 2012 and itsnew graphical engine, allowing you to instantlyrecognise the changes.Train Simulator 2013 may not be the most glamorousupdate to follow, however it does feature anumber of important improvements and new featuresthat are nevertheless headline worthy forany rail simulation enthusiast.InfoboxP r o d u c t _ S p e c i f i c a t i o n s :OS: Windows® XP / Vista / 7 / 8Processor:Processor: 2.8 GHz Core 2 Duo(3.2 GHz Core 2 Duo recommended),AMD Athlon MP (multiprocessor variantor comparable processors)Memory: 2 GB RAMGraphics: 512 MB with Pixel Shader 3.0(AGP PCIe only)DirectX®: 9.0cHard Drive: 6 GB HD spaceSound: Direct X 9.0c compatibleOther Requirements: Broadband InternetconnectionAdditional: Quicktime Player is requiredfor playing the videos24SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

PMDG 737 NGXBoeing 737 NGX from PMDG in Air Berlin liveryThe King is dead, long live the King:Boeing 737 NGXPMDG www.precisionmanuals.com finally made it.As second winner, they have finally released theirversion of the 737NGX for the FS X. At first, theyare second winner because “Bobby”, Lufthansa’snickname for the 737, took some more time to hitthe market than iFly’s version www.iflysimsoft.com.In their detailed review, the authors discuss thequestion whether the king (iFly’s 737NGX) is deadand the new king (PMDG’s 737NGX) proverbiallytook his throne.The ones putting the PMDG 737NGX throughits paces are for one Markus Slattner who, as anexperienced user himself, pays attention to thepractical and relevant matters of the community.Professional A380 pilot Andreas Pinheiro on theother hand gives an insight into the program’s systemdepth. He already evaluated iFly’s 737NGX forFS MAGAZIN and reviewed PMDG’s MD11 for theironline partner webpage www.simflight.de.This “double-manpower” is necessary because forPMDG the devil lies in the detail. And these detailsneed to be investigated. This might not seemtoo interesting for all of our readers, but he mightwant to reread the review in order to understandsome of the extensions once he has tested the 737simulation for some time.Markus Slattner writes...The Boeing 737 has been described extensivelymany times – see, for example, the muchtalked about simFlight review at www.simflight.de/2011/08/21/review-pmdg-737-ngx. That is why Iwill only mention some aspects that lead to thedevelopment of the Boeing 737NG as well as essentialthings for PC-pilots like availability andperformance...RealityAs of today, about 7,000 units of the 737, whichwas delivered for the first time in 1967, have beensold. It took a long time for Airbus to replace the737 with their A320 as the world’s best-selling commercialjet. In return, the 737 is soon going to beone the few airplanes in history to be built for fiftyyears. This can be explained with the robust andproven concept as well as continuous and marketoriented further development of the series.The conspicuous and rather rare further developmentin the field of aviation took place in 1984concerning the 300 and 400 versions. In the process,the screaming steel engines were replacedby much more silent and efficient turbofan enginesbuilt by CFM www.cfm56.com called CFM56-3.As the wing and the landing gear remained thesame, the in diameter much bigger engines gotdangerously near to the ground. That is why theplanking at the bottom was flattened noticeably.26

PMDG 737 NGXThe cockpit underwent a digital upgrade and theaviation was improved.The rising sales figures generated by the archenemy from Toulouse caused a lot of concern followingmere 389 units sold of their own 737-500.In order to further secure significant market share,Boeing announced the 737 Next Generation (NG)in 1993.That way, Boeing managed to avoid an especiallyexpensive and risky new development in a satisfiedmarket in favour of the 787 “Dreamliner”.The 737NG features a current Cockpit includingfive huge flat screens, improved avionics as wellas new CFM-56 engines. The wings, too, havebeen optimized and are optionally available withwinglets. Customers can choose between the 600-/700-/800-/900 models as well as the long-distanceversion 900ER. This variation, formerly known as900X, holds up to 219 passengers thanks to additionalemergency exits and has a range of almost6,000 km (approx. 3,728 miles) with its additionaltanks and reinforced wings. This explains a pricebetween $ 74 and 85 million whereas the 600 modelis available for a starting price of $ 50 million.In addition, there is the Boeing Business Jet (BBJ)and the “convertible version” 737-700C which isunique in its “weight category” and can be convertedfrom a passenger plane to a cargo planewithin one hour...As usual, Boeing also has its military customersin mind and plans according alterations for earlywarning and reconnaissance missions in conjunctionwith partner companies. Unfavourably, the737NG also does not allow fly-by-wire flight control.It is thus an airliner, like many other Boeingmodels, that needs to be flown manually and, ifnecessary, with a lot of muscle strength in case allsystems break down.SimulationPMDG invested three years of focused developmentin its new plane that has nothing in commonwith the “old” 737NG-family and unifies the experiencemade during all previous developments.Availability, scope of supply and installationCurrently, the 737NGX is only available as adownload in the 800 or 900 versions on themanufacturer’s homepage for a price of $ 69, 99.In view of the imaginable extent of possibilities,that is almost a freebie. Aerosoft www.aerosoft.com will publish a (German) box as soon as the 600and 700 models are available and existing bugs arefixed. The installation as well as the online-activationof the 600MB file did not cause any problems.By the way, PMDG themselves, Avsim http://library.avsim.com and Flightsim www.flighstim.com arealready offering a lot of paintings for free.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 27

PMDG 737 NGXThe screens are not, as usual, black in a shutdownstate, but have the customary, matt-glassy effectsdepending on the incidence of light. Despite highdigitalisation of the cockpit, some of the classicround instruments survived in case there is anemergency. A lot of the other control elementslike on the central console merely changed fromthe outside, so somebody familiar with the 737feels at home instantly.Hats off to the HUDHowever, the optionally available Head-Up-Display(HUD) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Head-up_display for the 737 is new. It can project vital flightparameters on a fold-down piece of glass in frontof the pilot’s face. That has been possible in thepast with the MD-80 or the Saab 2000, but wasnot accepted to the greatest extent by airlines fora long time.However, the HUD in the airplane has two undisputedadvantages: The 737NG is allowed to takeoff with only 300 feet vision instead of 600 feet,whereas other planes have to stay on the ground.This is explained by the fact that the flying pilotcan always keep his eyes on the outside. The sameapplies to the landing process, especially for thosesubject to IFR-rules that cannot be executed automatically.The tiring switching from scanning the instrumentsto looking afar is no longer necessary. A comfortevery PC-pilot will also appreciate without a doubt.However, the sitting position in front of the HUDtakes getting used to as you have the feeling to beseeing through sloping. It is of great importanceto achieve a precise understanding of the displaysand to have trust in the extremely precise instruments.The external lighting turned out good, too– even the reflexions on the plane or the ground.User-friendlinessIn the course of my tests I also had an eye onuser-friendliness which, especially regarding complexadd-ons, often leave much to be desired. Inthis case, PMDG can brace themselves with anachievement that is unique in its form and sureto be ground-breaking: The Flight ManagementComputer’s (FMC) Central Display Unit (CDU).Until now, these were mostly profane waypointmemorieswith more or less relevant subvariables.Not with this 737NGX. It presents itself as a universalinterface between pilot and FS X with a rangeof functions unknown until now. For the firsttime, almost all the functions available in the originalcan be used authentically. Andreas Pinheirowill take a closer look at this.Those among you not too keen on the topic ofeconomics regarding flight preparation can breatheeasy: Neither a load sheet, nor other tables arenecessary. Weights, trim as well as v-speeds can beautomatically inserted by double-clicking the concerningfunction key...Welcome to the first paperless FS X cockpit!PerformanceI am surprised regarding the performance as thehighly detailed and complex cockpit as well as theexternal model is, surprisingly, barely influencingthe frame rate. Which does not mean that youcan jet around fluently with any low-end computer.Anyone who expects 25 frames per second ormore and detailed sceneries needs an expensivehigh-end gamer pc.PMDG have carried out pioneering work for usershaving performance issues: Using CDU, the 2D and3D panels’ display quality can be changed smoothlyand, if required, turned off on the co-pilot’s sidein order to make more computing time available.Almost needless to say that this is where the soundcan also be adjusted.Markus SlattnerThe experienced virtual helicopter pilot and skilledauthor of many years’ standing is flying on the PCsince FS 98.Andreas Pinheiro writes...How long have we been waiting for this news?The release has been planned since 2010, althoughit was scheduled for the 4th quarter. The big daywas August 2nd 2011: PMDG opened their hangardoors in Nevada and there we had their latestcreation, the Boeing 737NG.Although, as it is sometimes the case in life forthose who wait for a long time, a faster competitorwas already waiting. That is what happenedin this case. The Chinese iFly developer team couldSIMULATOR WORLD 10/201229

PMDG 737 NGXSlightly sagging: the“Flexi-Wings” of the737NGX.A perfectly recreatedcockpit including all digitaland analogue displaysleave little to be desiredfor virtual pilots!The imaginative KualaAirlines livery, a South Africanairline, is one of themany painting possibilitiesavailable for free onthe internet.30SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

PMDG 737 NGXcelebrate the release of their (complete) 737-NGpackage just under five months earlier. In August2010, iFly’s 737NG for the FS 2004 was released –see FS MAGAZIN 1/2011. But as the hardware capacitycan meanwhile compete with the FS X requirementsand more and more products are developedfor the FS X, it can be considered state-of-the-art.This brings up several questions: Can PMDG meetthe high expectations and emerge victorious fromthe Chinese-American duel? Is the FS 2004 nearingits end? And, finally, do you need both planes inyour hangar?Here we go...First off, you start the livery manager. The differentPMDG liveries can be installed effortlessly. You justhave to indicate the FS-X folder and off you go!1. Normal operationsNow, I have the honour to get the PMDG 737NGXto its maiden flight (at least on my system). A shortflight from Frankfurt to Brussels should suffice. Ichose San Francisco as the destination for the actualflight testing.PMDG’s “airframe – tacking” is an actual changecompared to other manufacturers. This meansthat each plane painting can be identified withits official registration – for example D-ABAB forGermany – and every change made to the plane’ssettings is saved.Thus, parameters like the design of the cockpitand the error rates can be set using the 737’sControl Display Unit (CDU) and are loaded uponchoosing the machine in question. This results ina very individual fleet of planes: from worn outcharter-planes to state-of-the-art and maintainedairliners, PMDG can distinguish between the different737 versions. Unlike other manufacturers,using external managers before starting the programis not necessary as the extensive CDU menuis practically allowing everything that is possiblewith those managers like adjusting the amount offuel, weight and passenger distribution which isusually to be found in the FS-X menu like displayoptions in the cockpit, differences between 737versions, errors, control and sound. All in all, thatis an unimaginable amount of parameters youought to familiarize with first.The general distinction is made between “PMDGsetup” and “FS options”. A list of the possibilitiesis beyond the scope. Just this: Even the differentpackages concerning the ETOPS suitability of a 737can be adjusted!Panel-states, meaning the configuration of differentpanels, are also saveable. As I chose “cold anddark” and am standing at the gate, it is time nowto get the plane into the right configuration forstarting the engines. The so called “normal procedures”on the ground are already indicating whatthis 737NGX is made of.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/201231

PMDG 737 NGXAs the Boeing 737 is still a very conventional machine,a lot of work needs to be carried out. Thedifferent steps are explained in great detail in the97-page(!) tutorial.Nevertheless, it remains difficult for an amateur toidentify a flow in this much text. Maybe our “flowcharts”can help us here that have been createdfor the iFly – see download area on the FS MAGA-ZIN homepage www.fsmagazin.de (German).Preparing the 737NGX on the ground does nottake much time and does not cause any problems.All the essential control elements are, for the mostpart, simulated correctly.I only detected a bug on the Blood Duct PressureIndicator. A switched on pack indicates little pressurewhereas a switched off pack indicates muchpressure. The other way around would make muchmore sense. If you connect ground power, no pressureat all is indicated. Nonetheless, it is possibleto start the engines. A magnetic course (heading)at the Inertial Reference Unit (IRU) cannot be readeither. PMDG has been informed about the issue.Otherwise, everything is working the way it is supposedto.The pushback is beginning. It can – lucky especiallyfor teetotallers of AES – also be controlled usingthe CDU menu. The engines are left switched onafter clearance for take off. The start is recreatedrealistically and is a far cry from the usually “jumping”parameters of the default-FS-X-planes orsome add-on manufacturers.Once clearance for taxiing is issued, our flight toBrussels can begin. It immediately seemed likethe 737 has quite the agility on the ground. Forme personally, the 737 is a bit too agile. Thus, thewheels are not getting any lighter which requiresa fine feeling.IndicationIn order to achieve a realistic idle, the throttleshould be set to maximum sensibility and neutralposition should be set near zero.When rolling, the flaps are pulled up and the autobrakeis set to Rejected Take Off (RTO). You’reonce again walking through the take off process.Lateral Navigation (LNAV) and Vertical Navigation(VNAV), too, the two automatic options the autopilotoffers, which ensure the routes entered intothe Flight Management System (FMS) are flownover in height and side, can already be selected onthe ground according to the manual. Now, theyare “armed”, which means they are put on alert.This is forbidden in a lot of airlines.A reinforcement of LNAV should be done at 400ft above ground level (AGL) whereas VNAV shouldbe reinforced during the acceleration period,mostly at 1,500 ft AGL.32SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

PMDG 737 NGXDuring take off, the TOGA-button must be pressed.This leads to the correct setting of the automaticflight modes. It is rather careless that this importantbutton cannot be controlled using the 2D-panel.That is why you should assign it to a controlbutton which is perfectly doable using the PMDGmenu. There is a hidden click spot in the MCP forthe three-dimensional Virtual Cockpit (VC). Onceyou are in the air, the autopilot is switched on tocheck its functions.2. AutopilotThe centrepiece of every modern passenger planeis controlled using the Mode Control Panel (MCP)of the Boeing. Airbus calls this device Flight ControlUnit (FCU). There, you can choose the differentmodes of autopilot. As the 737 is a rather conventionalplane, the different options are limited:LNAV and VNAV for checking the flight profile inthe FMS, LVLCH, V/S, HDG, ALT and APP are justsome of them. The function of this mode is essentialto controlling the plane and thus needs to bemodelled extremely accurate.IndicationFor abbreviations not explained in this article, pleasesee: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_aviation,_aerospace_and_aeronautical_abbreviationsIn that regard, PMDG has done a very good job.I can (hardly) criticise anything: Lateral and verticalFMS-navigation work perfectly. You even havethe possibility to fly a complex RNAV-approach ifit is available as approach procedure. I have neverseen it in such perfection in an add-on for one ofMicrosoft’s Flight Simulators. Of course, the wellknownprocedures like an ILS- or VOR-approachwork just as good.During the flight, you control the plane mostlyusing the CDU of the FMS (also known as “thebox”) or using the Heading Select function (HDGSEL) which can be easily operated, too.Climbing and descending flights are mostly achievedusing the V/S- or LVLCH-mode. This is slightlytoo dynamic in lower flight altitudes, but is alreadyvery realistic considering weight and thrust.The service ceilings stated in the performancepart match those reachable in the simulation. TheFlight Director (FD) has also been designed veryaccurately. You can easily follow it during the approachand should be lead to one of the landingstrips: In short, everything is more or less perfect!Two aspects that are not perfect are, on one hand,the holding and, on the other hand, the automaticmissed approach, the go around. A correct holdingentry seems to be strongly depending on thespeed. In this particular case, the autopilot obviouslycannot fly a proper procedure if the speedexceeds 200 knots (kts). You should observe theauto go around carefully as the autopilot does notreach the necessary climb rate.If you compare the overall picture to iFly’s737NG(X), it can be stated that controlling the autopilotis different although both manufacturersmastered this critical chapter on their own. Forme, PMDG is the winner because the take off andapproach programmes as well as the Flight Directorare programmed in a cleaner fashion and canbe flown better.A fact that is bothering me is that the 2D-panel isonly available in widescreen format. If you run iton a conventional 4:3 screen, it seems rather distorted.iFly came up with a much better solutionwith its many options.3. Abnormal operationsWhere many other add-on manufacturers stopand congratulate each other for a successful simulation,PMDG traditionally is far from finished. Thesimulation of the so called abnormals and nonnormals,meaning the states of flight that pilotsprefer to experience only in a simulation, is oneof the hobbyhorses. Since the successful MD11-simulation, my expectations in this area are veryhigh which now need to be met by the Nevadanprogrammers. Not that easy...In order to simulate accidents on the 737, studyingthe so called Quick Reference Handbook (QRH)is imperative. In here, all relevant procedures aresummed up. After the flight deck crew has identifiedan error, you can begin to reconfigure theplane with the help of the relevant checklist.Especially, when you use the random error function,it is not easy to see at first sight which devicejust broke down. Boeing came up with an easyand yet not too easy system for the 737 unlikefor its “bigger brothers” ranging from the 757 tothe jumbo: If a system is broken, you are goingto hear a sound signal and/ or notice the caution-SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 33

PMDG 737 NGXThe HUD is an enormousaid for an approach underdifficult visibility conditions.The 737NGX’s “lightshows” are worth watchingand seem very real.Using the 2D cockpit, youcan select several sub panelsvia keyboard shortcuts– on this picture,you see the so called“After Overhead” withthe flap (moving) displayand the input device forthe inertial navigation aswell as the “Voice SelectorPanel”.34SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

PMDG 737 NGX(yellow) or warning light (red) depending on theerror which is going to light up directly in front ofthe pilot.The (PC-) pilot ought to know the various soundsignals. That way, you can tell by identifying theconstant “horn” sound that the height of the cabinexceeded the maximum value. If you do nothave that knowledge, you are going to be unableto identify the problem and thus to solve it.That is what the crash of the Helios 737-300, tragically,taught us http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helios_Airways_Flight_522.If you notice a sound orlight signal, the first thing to do is checking theoperator display for error warnings. In case thereare several of them (for example electric errors),you need to identify the source and thus workthrough the relevant procedure according toQRH1.PMDG put this philosophy very well into practice.The aforementioned “horn” used for a cabin pressurewarning is present as well as the previouslymentioned light warnings. The pneumatic system(i.e. the pressurized cabin) works perfectly.Here, the displays for cabin height and maximumdifferential pressure are very accurate. If youswitch off the packs, the cabin “does a runner”,the height exceeds 10,000 ft and you hear a warninghorn.If the cabin gets higher than 14,000 ft, the maskswill drop automatically – at least the correspondingdisplay in the cockpit lights up. I was only surprisedabout the missing warning for surpassingthe maximum differential pressure...The electrical system does not make it easy for thepilot, if something breaks down. The worst casescenario on the 737 certainly occurs when no generatorat all is available and you have to fly usingthe standby power, i.e. the batteries. This state implicatesthat all autopilots broke down and onlythe displays on the left hand side, the captain’sside, work.When comparing the actual state to the target stateconcerning this error, you have to praise PMDG.Here, every faulty component has been recreatedcorrectly. In case of several “small” electric errors,it would have been a good idea to work througha more extensive checklist in the QRH1. That way,the pilot misses out on several possibilities to reconfigure,for example, the FMCs or navigationdisplays. Obviously, pilots just need to know that...If one of the main hydraulic systems breaks down,you are going to notice severe consequences inthe 737: Controllability starts declining and especiallythe flaps and the landing gear cannot becontrolled in a conventional way. The flaps can becontrolled electrically whereas the landing gear ispulled down by gravity.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 35

PMDG 737 NGXthe use of the brakes or landing gear landings.This is connected to error models based in reality,so you are practically controlling a “normally” error-prone737 as long as you chose “Service BasedFailures” in the settings. I cannot say whether thatis more fun. In the beginning, the planes are new.The effect will come after numerous flights...In case you are not maintaining your plane usingthe CDU menu, the susceptibility increases. Thehour meter indicates for every plane how manyhours it can still fly without maintenance. Again,a very nice gimmick.Andreas PinheiroThe professional pilot, who has been flying on thePC since FS 4, has been flying a 767 for eight yearsbefore switching to Airbus.ConclusionThis plane that has been tested with the latestbugfixes available at the time of the creation ofthese reports convinces although only the 800- and900 versions are available. The system depth, onceagain, is brilliant and the autopilot already worksvery well in the first version. Even in the “singleengine-mode”the flight behaviour is great. Thepitch- and power values for every attitude of flightagree with the ones stated in the manual.Only on the ground, the plane is slightly too agile.The 2D-panel disappoints, too. With VC switchedoff, which, as is generally known, affects the performance,flying with this model is not fun. Nonetheless,PMDG’s 737NGX remains our favouritefor the FS X especially because of its system depth.For those not having a high-end PC and those notenjoying VCs, iFly’s 737NGX is the alternative. Onthe other hand, the Chinese 737NGX for the FS2004 remains unachieved as there simply is no betteralternative.With regard to normal operations, the two offersonly differentiate in details. The PMDG’s completeconfigurability using the CDU and the long-awaited“Manual Reversion” simulation in particularknow how to impress. The announced Service Pack1 (SP 1) is sure to improve the 737NGX once againand thus further outpace the competition.In addition, it is possible to update the 737NGX’snavigation data using Navigraph or NavDataPro.Taking everything into account, the PMDG737NGX is certainly not appropriate for beginners.But once you have learned how to handle it, youcannot get away from it as it will always captivatePC-pilots: The waiting was worthwhile: The King isdead – long live the king!Article from FS Magazin - Edition 10/2011www.fsmagazin.deSIMULATOR WORLD 10/201237

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Damage Inc. & Pacific AV8R Flight StickDamage Inc. & Pacific AV8R Flight StickFly one of the 30 precisely recreated planes and defendthe Pacific Ocean Theatre against an enemyinvasion. Lead violent battles in the air, againstwarships and infantry flying dive bombers, fightersand torpedo bombers above visually impressiveand carefully recreated historic battlegrounds.Starting with the surprising Attack on Pearl Harborto the violent Battle for Iwo Jima, you defeatyour enemies in more than 20 single missions orduring direct aerial combat on the Xbox LIVE.Whether you are flying alone, with your teammatesor against them: Use your air force to destroyyour enemy and dominate the airspace.Intriguingly detailed planes, isles and battlegrounds.The aerial combat is an unmistakablemultiplayer experience. Compatible with Flight-Stick controllers for an intensive gaming experiencewith over 12 hours of missions.Pacific AV8R FlightStick includedThe Pacific AV8R FlightStick reminds optically ofthe World War II fighter aircraft and is particularlydesigned for playing Damage Inc. Pacific SquadronWWII. The flightstick is thus conveying the trueflight feeling for an intensive gaming experience.The comfortably soft rubber surface ensures comforton an extended mission while the stick, likethe ones you find in historic military aircraft, allowsprecise control you can use to defeat theenemy and conquer the sky.Exclusive Corsair with increased performanceGive yourself an edge by flying a completely equippedplane from the start! The DLC-code (consolewith internet access necessary to use the codes) includedin this package grants you access to a Corsairat maximum speed, exclusive paintwork andfour 20-mm-aircraft-cannons instead of defaultmachine guns.SIMULATOR WORLD 10/201239

Damage Inc. & Pacific AV8R Flight StickThis incredibly fast Corsair equipped with maximumdestructiveness is exclusive to the DamageInc. Pacific WWII Collector’s Edition.Controlling over 30 precisely recreated planesMore than 30 incredibly detailed, historically recreatedplanes including rare, never before flownWorld War II prototypes offer an authentic aerialcombat gaming experience. Thanks to the flightcharacteristics, arming and armour that remind ofthe real planes, you experience the action at firsthand as the pilot. From the untameable Hellcatto the much feared Zero – you can choose from ahangar full of allied and enemy aircraft.Complete missions in order to get upgrade points:Make new planes available, optimize your armour,performance and weapons, change your paintworkand more! Extensive bonus system: GainXbox-360-bonuses by completing operations inthe game.Online-multiplayer including comparative andcommon modeUse your fighting skills to challenge your onlineenemies in multiplayer aerial combats. The XboxLIVE supports up to eight players at one time.Many modes offer seemingly endless fun and increasethe urge to take part in the biggest aerialbattles of the Pacific Ocean Theatre.DogfightIn this classic death match mode, players competeagainst up to seven opponents. They are going toneed every aerial manoeuvre and have to rely ontheir survival skills by choosing the right time andplace to strike.Thanks to various options, you can choose a levelof difficulty that matches your skills.Team DogfightForm two teams and find out who can win thisaerial combat.SurvivorAll players start with a fixed number of lives andfight until there is only one of them left. Here,players need to be allrounders to become the lastman standing after several rounds.Team SurvivorPlayers work together in teams to eliminate theother team. All players begin with a fixed numberof lives and the last team to have remaining livesemerges victorious.40SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012

Damage Inc. & Pacific AV8R Flight StickScratch One FlattopTwo teams compete against each other and try toscupper the enemies’ flattops in this epic aerialcombat.Use dive bombers and torpedo bombers to attackthe enemy’s flattop from behind cover with thesupport of your fighters.Ally yourself with online teammates and carryout missions togetherUp to four players can team up to carry out missionstogether. In case all players share a commongame status, new missions and planes will be madeavailable in this mode.The Sim- and Arcade-Mode challenge new andexperienced pilots alikeThe arcade mode is perfect for games wheneveryou have a spare moment and also puts inexperiencedplayers right in the middle of the actionthanks to its simplified control.Once you master the basics, you can switch to theSim-Mode which allows an even more precise controlof the planes.Intensive take offs and landings on flattopsA few missions on Damage Inc. Pacific SquadronWWII surpass the pure aerial combat and simulateone of its most difficult aspects in a precise way:landing on a flattop while others take off.Take over control over your plane and take off justlike preparing for a real combat. Navigate yourplane back to the flattop after you have destroyedthe enemy to complete the mission successfully.InfoboxP r o d u c t _ S p e c i f i c a t i o n s :Single-Player Story ModeOnline Multiplayer for 2-8 GamersOnline Co-op for 2-4 GamersFlight Stick CompatibleVoice Chat CompatibleHDTV 720p/1080i/1080phttp://damageincthegame.com/SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 41

PREVIEW EDITION 11-2012Available in NovemberImprintPREVIEW/ IMPRINTSIMULATOR WORLDSpecialist magazine for PC-SimulationsHomepage:www.simulatorworld.comPublisher:ALBO medien GmbHLindberghring 1233142 BürenGermanyTel. +49 (0) 29 55 – 76 03 37Fax: +49 (0) 29 55 - 76 03 33Company Registry: B 9728Tax ID: 339 5801 0442FA PaderbornManagement: Eva Löffleremail: kontakt@albo-medien.deThe new version EEP - Eisenbahn.exe EXPERTAddress of editorial staff:ALBO medien GmbHSimulator WorldLindberghring 1233142 BürenGermanyemail:redaktion@albo-medien.deChief editor:Frank Möllenhof (V.i.S.d.P.)email: moellenhof@simulatorworld.deStaff of this issue: Martin Fuchs, Andreas Pinherro,Markus Slattner und James WoodcockAirbus X Extended for FS-X and Prepar3DCopyright:© ALBO medien GmbHAll rights, in particular of the duplication, translation,microfilming as well as the feed and processing in electronicsystems, to the utilisation of parts of the technicalperiodical or on the whole remain reserved. All logos relatedin the magazine and protective brands are a propertyof the respective legal owners.Euro Truck Simulator 2SIMULATOR WORLD 10/2012 43