[*Buzzsaw*]

Salute

Visibility

#1 The game requires a proper set of LOD models. Right now the disappearing act at 500-1000 meters is unacceptable. The fact is, we are seeing a 2D game trying to model a 3D enviroment, but the developers in their design of the LOD models are not taking into account factors which allow the human eye to discern objects moving. For example, depth of field. An aircraft flying against a background is in focus at a different focal length than the background, the game does not take this into account, this is what allows the human eye to pick out an aircraft more easily. In addition, the tendency of the background to be lit at a different level of luminance than the plane means the foreground aircraft is outlined and highlighted. As the aircraft sequentially passes in front of bright and dark backgrounds, the result is a flicker effect which again allows the human eye to pick it out. This probably can't be effectively replicated by the game, considering the calculations required, the answer in 2D terms is to simply outline the aircraft LOD model with darker pixels around its outside edge, making a clear boundary between it and the background, thereby allowing it to be observed more easily.

#2 The game should have reflection modelled. Some original screens prior to publication showed reflection, (the Stuka model vid) for whatever reason, this was eliminated in the final release of CoD. Reflection off cockpit glass, painted surfaces, etc. was one of the most important indicators to allow sighting of enemy aircraft in the real world. Time and again, if you read the real life pilot accounts, you will hear them recount how a glint of light off an enemy aircraft was the first indicator of their presence. BoM should have reflection as a major priority.