Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Simulator
- Platforms: DOS
- Developers: The Bruce Artwick Organization
- Publishers: Microsoft
Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 (1989): A Landmark in Flight Simulation
Released in 1989, Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was a groundbreaking flight simulator that set new standards for realism and immersion. It was the first version of the Microsoft Flight Simulator series to feature CGA through VGA support, multi-user play, and support for add-ons.
Improved Graphics and Scenery
One of the most significant improvements in Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was its graphics and scenery. The game featured detailed scenery for five major cities: New York, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The scenery was created using a new digitizing process that resulted in more realistic and detailed landscapes.
In addition to the improved scenery, Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 also featured a new graphics engine that supported CGA through VGA resolutions. This allowed for smoother graphics and more detailed aircraft models.
Multi-User Play
Another major innovation in Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was the introduction of multi-user play. This allowed players to fly together in the same virtual airspace, and to communicate with each other via text chat. Multi-user play added a whole new level of realism and immersion to the game, and it helped to create a sense of community among flight sim enthusiasts.
Add-On Support
Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was the first version of the series to support add-ons. This allowed third-party developers to create new aircraft, scenery, and other enhancements for the game. The add-on community quickly grew, and it soon became one of the most vibrant and active communities in the flight sim world.
Aircraft and Scenery Designer
One of the most popular add-ons for Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was the Aircraft & Scenery Designer, which allowed users to create their own aircraft and scenery. This add-on was a powerful tool that allowed users to customize their flight sim experience to their liking.
Sublogic’s USA Scenery Series
Another popular add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was Sublogic’s USA scenery series. This add-on added detailed scenery for the entire United States, and it was a must-have for any serious flight sim enthusiast.
Legacy
Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was a landmark release in the history of flight simulation. It set new standards for realism, immersion, and customization, and it helped to popularize the genre. The game is still considered to be one of the best flight simulators ever made, and it continues to be enjoyed by sim enthusiasts around the world.
Conclusion
Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 was a groundbreaking flight simulator that set new standards for realism, immersion, and customization. It was the first version of the series to feature CGA through VGA support, multi-user play, and support for add-ons. The game was a huge success, and it helped to popularize the flight sim genre. Microsoft Flight Simulator 4.0 is still considered to be one of the best flight simulators ever made, and it continues to be enjoyed by sim enthusiasts around the world.
Review Score
9/10
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