Summary: Hosted by Eric McClintock, Jordan G, #38; Adam J. Listen Here: Subscribe to automatically get the latest podcast: iTunes, Zune, RSS XML, E-Mail, All Other. Support Flightsim This petition is to serve as an open letter of support for both the ACES studio members and the Microsoft Flight Simulator franchise as a whole. Over its 25+ year history the franchise has built an unmatched fan-base stretching across generations. With the closure of the ACES studio, we, the loyal supporters of the franchise are concerned with the continuity and quality of the brand. Though the franchise remains the property of Microsoft Corporation, the real value remains in the dedication and creativity of the ACES studio members that have now been lost. Check it out and sign the petition at SupportFlightSim.com. [Link] End of an Era, Part III New blog post from Phil Taylor where he wraps up the various press coverage Microsoft has gotten. Is the FS Franchise dead? Here is some information from Phil: Two groups being formed, Group one involves using using character animation, that was supposed to be in Train Sim 2, in a social networking environment lead by Microsoft Research. Group two is the most interesting, it will be centered around a flying game - NOT FS11 - But still a flying game. Group two has 30 employees, and plan to take on 15 more over the next year. The job postings last week which mentioned a "flight orientated game" were for the second group. Also remember that some employees from the ACES studios were asked to find another position in the company, presumably to 'group two'. So what does this mean? Phil speculates: This is a serious change in direction for the hobby, but the jury is out in terms of the exact details until Microsoft Game Studios releases more information. Phil mentions the possibility of a pay to play type system, similar to other games like world of warcraft, where you pay a monthly fee in order to play the game. He also has said that it could be a possibility that it might not feature the entire world, and not as a deep simulation experience. Question? If this were to happen, what would happen? Would you pay to play a FS? Online Surveys#160;#38;#160;Market Research Tell us what you think! Use the form on our contact page, email feedback@fsbreak.net, or call 513-201-5426 Phil ends the speculation by saying that it is clear Microsoft has SOMETHING in the works, but we will just have to wait and see. Until then FSX is a great platform to build on. View the full article here. [Link] New Film from JaggyRoad Films Imagine you are watching an amateur edited video with a bit of music in the background to spice things up a bit. Nothing crazy, just a relaxing but fun experience you might find at a friend's TV on a late night while tipping back a few beers. Video: Watch this video and JaggyRoad's other videos here. [Link] GoFlight Integrated Communications Console Features a Full-size COMM and NAV stack Includes a prewired USB hub, just plug it in and use the configuration software. Will run you about $900. View more about the console here. [Link] Picture of Jordan's friend's setup: [nggallery id=2] Share your home cockpit! Use the form on our contact page, email feedback@fsbreak.net and include an attachment or a link to your home cockpit! Quick Links Sandspit "X" Airport This is one of the most popular and yet often forgotten airports in North America. From the very detailed and unique terminal building to animated "birds in flight" and Orca whales "splashing about" just off the coastline, we have done our best to capture the area's overall peaceful and serene feel. Both FS2004 and FSX versions included. Price: $15.00 USD. More info at this article. [Link] Sky Diver 2009 A skydive 'simulator' for both FS2004 and FSX. Features 5 different types of animation. Also features a watch with Altimeter and different canopy colors.
