X-Plane and XPilot
X-Plane is an open source 2D space combat simulator that can be played over the internet. Players connect to a server and compete in free-for-all and team-based games such as Capture the Flag.
The first time you start the app, a tutorial will guide you through flying basics. The home screen shows a variety of options. Tap the gear at the bottom to access settings.
XPilot
XPilot is a free software program that runs on many platforms, and enables you to connect your flight simulator to the VATSIM Network. This network enables you to immerse yourself in virtual aviation, interacting with other aircraft and receiving real-time air traffic control services. This is a great way to practice your flight skills, even if you cannot afford to fly a real plane.
The software has a simple interface and allows you to choose different controls, including throttle, brakes, propeller and steering. You can also choose between autopilot and manual control. It also has a 3-level flight assist system that helps beginners learn how to fly radio control airplanes. It also has a gyro stabilizer system that helps your RC plane stay stable and in the air.
It is a multi-player video game, and its 2D graphics are similar to those of the coin-op arcade games Asteroids and Gravitar and the PC games Thrust and Gravity Force. Its gameplay consists of Capture the Flag, base defense and racing maps. It is a client-server architecture, and you can either connect to a local XPilot server or a metaserver that finds one on the Internet.
X-Plane 12 users can use a new feature called City NGP, which is designed to help you navigate through cities. This is an upgrade of Xpilot Pilot, which was initially designed only for highways. It will allow you to change lanes, speed up or slow down, overtake cars and even enter and exit highways.
X-Plane 13 and 14 users can also use the XPilot plugin. To enable it, type the command.simip 1.2.3.4 or.visualip 1.2.3.4 (replace 1.2.3.4 with the IP address of the X-Plane visual computer). You can also enable multiple xplots by using a space between each IP. The XPilot plugin is available as a free download from the Xplot website. It is a must-have for any X-Plane user.
X-Plane
X-Plane is the world’s most advanced and powerful flight simulator for personal computers. It provides a realistic representation of aircraft and the laws of physics, with a fully customizable interface that can be customized to fit your needs.
The simulator is pre-packaged with a variety of aircraft and global scenery that covers most of the world. It also includes design software titled Plane Maker that allows users to create their own aircraft for use in the simulation. Several companies that produce real-world aircraft have used the software to design new models, including Atlantica Blended Wing Body Aircraft and CarterCopter.
It is possible to connect X-Plane to the VATSIM Network (Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network) and interact with other aircraft and receive virtual air traffic control services in real time. There are two popular client applications to connect to the network, Swift and xPilot, both developed by Laminar Research. xPilot is cross-platform, allowing users of any platform to enjoy the immersive experience without having to purchase or install the full X-Plane simulator.
Both Swift and xPilot are now compatible with the new X-Plane 12, making it easy for anyone to join the VATSIM Network. X-Plane 12 is available as a physical DVD set or as a download that requires a high speed internet connection.
X-Plane 12 features include Photometric, HDR Lighting Engine that computes light intensity and spread according to the laws of physics, and Volumetric 3D Clouds that are immersive and capture the sensation of flight. Real Weather is modeled with a proprietary system that turns data from the real world into the simulation. Various airport effects can be applied such as cracking pavement, oil spills, varying water color and seasonally-aware vegetation. Microbursts, wake turbulence and thermals are simulated as well.
When connected to a flight simulator cockpit and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) X-Plane can be used to log FTD training hours. This is accomplished by using a master PC which runs the cockpit instruments and controls, while PC #2 feeds the two side view monitors.
