Microsoft Flight Simulator makes use of Bing Maps to utilize accurate topographic data and real-time weather forecasts.
As a result, we are provided with the exact same replica of the real world in the game. This game is literally a blessing for all those who wanted to become a pilot growing up.
Therefore, from bright city lights to snow-white panoramic mountains, you can fly over everything. But nothing beats piloting a jet above your very own residence. That just hits different!
Now as precise as the simulations are when compared to the actual world, the graphics don’t seem life-like realistic. This lack of detail gets many entangled in it.
For example, let’s take the beautiful, picturesque Buckingham Palace into account. It’s the epitome of eye-pleasing English Architecture. Unfortunately, the exquisite headquarters of the monarch looks mediocre at best in the game.
Stonehenge is another relevant example here. The famous prehistoric stone circle looks bad. For something so important, the lack of detail is excruciating to see.
Now, this is exactly where modders come into the scene. Instead of relying on Bing Maps and Microsoft’s Azure AI, they are making use of Google Maps.
Google Maps were brought in to change and revamp some of the scenery and they did the job remarkably.
Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia is one example of how Google Maps added a pinch of improvement into the game.
Looking at the post above, you can see for yourself that the second-largest cricket stadium actually looks like a stadium. Previously, it looked like any ordinary round-shaped building.
“In regard to photogrammetry, we often talked about number of cities or places that have it on Bing vs. Google. However, when I was examining the same area on both platforms, to my surprise (or not), the quality of photogrammetry on Bing is a lot worse, both in texture quality and polygon counts.”
If I were Microsoft here, I wouldn’t be happy. It also remains to be seen if this issue further accelerates or not. Moreover, the application of Google Maps might also be a violation of Google’s terms of service.
However, for now, all I can say is to sit back and enjoy the view.
About Microsoft Flight Simulator
Developed by Asobo Studio, Microsoft Flight Simulator is an Amateur Flight Simulation game available for Microsoft Windows. It will also be launched later for platforms like Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S.
By utilizing intricate topographic data from Bing Maps along with real time weather forecasts, one will surely be flummoxed by setting eyes upon the game’s phenomenal optic spectacle. Its almost unjustified to call this masterpiece a simulator when its life-like realistic. From incorporating snow-bested mountain range to clamoring towns and cities, almost every little detail of this gem is breathtaking.
Not only are the graphics authentic, its gameplay too is hair-splitting and diligent. From take off and landing to engine inspection; Everything should be looked into with perfection. One will have to get used to the physics of the game along with figuring out how to travel by utilizing VFR navigation.
Innumerable challenges, dares and missions are also incorporated in order to further spice things up along with a worldwide leaderboard to see and compare the progress of countless other pilots.
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