Damage modeling is critical these days. Tell us about your model as well as
damage resolution. How many factors are taken into account for the IL-2 for
example?
Oh, too many factors. I can't even name them in this interview because every model (even a ground object) has its own damage modeling, which is determined by accuracy of modeling the original. Aircrafts are modeled more accurately and all modeling is based on real tests and trials during WWII.
Damage modeling for Il-2 and other flyable planes is made according to real plane construction. We are making damage modeling not for advertising but to achieve similar combat effects as in real flight: some damage allows pilot to control plane and other prevent him from doing that. For example if Il-2 has a shot oil radiator then its engine will soon be overheated and jammed, but it is possible to land it as a planer. There are lot's of other damage effects varying by shell calibers and explosion force: from blackening to draught holes (player will see damaged plane internals: ruined stringers, nervures, langerons etc) to particles of hull and vital interiors falling apart the plane.
Damage modeling corresponds to the flight model. For example if you lost one aileron, you can keep you plane flying, but FM will be change and cause some interference on pilot controls.
What will the player see when he takes a cannon shot in the wing, or in the
tail or through the instrument panel? Is damage modeled on the aircraft
graphically? Will we see broken wings and tails?
Yes, player will see it J. Machine gun bullets leave holes (these are imitated by black spots on the hull at the place of a hit). Cannon shells can tear hull pieces and make larger draught holes. If any vitals are hit, then there will be some major damage: wings and other parts of the aircraft falling apart, explosion in mid air etc all according to a special damage table, based on historical documents, photos and trials. There is also damage modeling of the cockpit.
Will you model wind in the environment? How many types of cloud formation
are modeled? Will there be low level turbulence?
The wind will be modeled. Clouds are present, so cloud formations are also in the sky J. During flight you'll be able to see changes of cloud formations. Somewhere - large clouds or cloud formation, somewhere - no clouds at all. Some time the changes of weather will change the cloud formation. Low level turbulence will also be present. Read above about our FM.
What is the maximum resolution of the graphics engine? Tell us about the key
features.
The resolution depends only on features of a graphic accelerator, used by the player. Engine can work at any resolutions of the screen, supported by given graphics accelerator. There is 32bit real time render. With 16bit graphic accelerators the quality of render can be decreased also to 16 bit. The sim will work on OpenGL or DirectX drivers.
Watch for Part II Tomorrow...
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