Future of simulations 2010 discussion

[Sutts]

Originally Posted by Wolf_Rider

It depends on how deeply the want for modelling is really. You're right in a way that "procedure" (flicking switches in the right order) doesn't require any extra rendering but the math required for the "procedure" (the want for the effects of worn seals/ almost rancid hydraulic oil/ a dodgy injector/ intermittent loose wire on a cockpit gauge, for instance, or the added "realism: of the bug splat) involved is what would bog down hardware.

we need to be careful that we don't make the mistake of misinterpreting realism/ realistic/ procedure, lest we end up in casuistry to further agenda

I take it you are describing the effects of a worn engine on how easy it is to start? If so then I agree that keeping track of the state of the oil and the degree of wear in the individual components would be way over the top and would affect performance.

However, I think all this could be easily modelled through a simple factor applied at startup that is based on the degree of abuse an engine has suffered. I believe Oleg is already keeping track of the "abuse factor".

The procedures we're talking about are pretty straight forward really. Things like:

If number of prime strokes are insufficient based on current engine temperature then make engine fail to start. (pre take off check with no framerate hit)

If master switch is not turned on then ignition and all electrical services won't work. (pre take off check with no framerate hit)

If booster pump is not used while switching tanks then % chance of fuel lock and engine cutout. (check state of booster pump only when fuel selector changed)

This kind of thing will not effect performance at all really (I program for a living). The problem Oleg has is that each aircraft has different sub system requirements. He just wants to stick to the features common to all and avoid having to spend time implementing the details specific to each type and sub type which is understandable.

While I hope he does make an effort to model the parameters and limitations of each type (boost/rpm/temps etc) I can understand his reluctance to turn this into a study sim (which was never the intention).

What I hope is that third parties can step in later and give study sim status to specific aircraft as has already happened with FSX. I believe strongly that this could be done without affecting the competitive nature of online play. The systems we are asking to be modelled are either only used on the ground or are of a nature that won't give the player an advantage in combat (in fact the player will be MORE likely to die if they fail to follow procedures).

The systems that would give advantage in combat are modelled already - Supercharger, RPM control, Mixture etc. A boost pump or a circuit breaker is not going to sway things one way or another.