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The B-17 - A Historical Perspective
by Joe "Impaler" Highman

Computer flight simulators have evolved spectacularly over the years. New advances in 3D graphics, force-feedback game controllers and excruciatingly detailed flight modeling immerse the virtual pilot in a life-like, next-best-thing-to-being-there-without-taking-flakbursts-or-machinegun-fire, thrill ride.Other technological breakthroughs such as positional surround sound, voice-over-IP and an enthusiastic and vocal base of gamer support only help to richen the experience and spurn ahead the development of more realistic, immersive and entertaining simulations.

The hardware is available to make our flight controllers jitter and rumble with a hard landing, and our state-of-the-art audio hardware can produce even the faintest whispers. Modern graphics adapters can paint a world of scale and color that in many ways can rival what we see through the window. No matter how well technology simulates what is to be had in the real world, our workstations still can only stimulate three of the five basic human senses.As I sit on a park bench penning this article, the blazing July sun and the short refreshing blasts of slightly humid air remind me that somehow, despite the splendor awaiting the virtual pilot through a stirring presentation of air travel, the real world still possesses many distinct advantages.

I received a first hand dose of this reality recently over the skies of my hometown in Ohio. As a life-long aviation enthusiast and military history buff, I have long held a deep admiration for the classic styling of the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. In 1992, I leapt at the chance to purchase a copy of Microprose’s title of the same name, and I am proud to boast that I helped two crews survive their 25-mission tour-of-duty.

 

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