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E3 Impressions: Best of Show
by Bubba "Masterfung" Wolford
 

The problem I have with Flanker 2.0 are the use of non-existing production weapons and the fact that the Su-33 was not really designed to be a true multi-role aircraft like the F/A-18C-E, F-15E or F-16C. Using the R-77 (AA-12) for me is like flying a JSF simulation right now. It does not exist as production hardware. Sure the Russian Air Force (RAF) likes to fly the R-77 to air shows and demonstrate that the unit is in testing, but there are doubts that the missile will never see the light of day due to lack of funding.

As a result, including it in the game only displays for me how desperate the Su-27/ Su-33 is for a true BVR capability. I would find it much more enjoyable to use the AA-10 ALAMO C in semi-active mode, which would give a much better feel for authentic BVR combat and realism.

Pretending the Su-33 is a true multi-role aircraft is like claiming that the "new" F-14D is a multi-role airplane too. Sure the F-14D can drop GBU munitions and can carry various load outs of dumb bombs at various combat configurations but just like the Su-27, the F-14A was really designed as a combat intercept aircraft which was later updated to carry a dual role in it's "newest" configuration. Attaching ground pounding munitions, "don't make the Su-33 or F-14D an F-15E or F/A-18E".

Click to continue

 

Flanker 2
Flanker 2.0.

Flanker 2
MiG in Flanker 2.0.

In the end, it was Jane's F/A-18 that stole my heart. Even though it is the least far along that either DI's F/A-18 or SSI's Flanker 2.0, it is my impression that Jane's F/A-18 will offer the best of the best for Jet simulations this year. Look for Jane's F/A-18 to be released in Q4 1999.

Go to Page Four of Bubba's report.

 

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