Great Planes: RealFlight Add-Ons, Volume 4

Model Airplane News, Apr 2003 by Bell, Rick

PRODUCT WATCH

Add more excitement to your G2 flight sim

One of the things we really like about the Great Planes RealFlight simulator is that you can upgrade the program with "Add-Ons" that allow you to experience new flying fields, airplanes and helicopters. The newest edition, "Add-Ons, Volume 4," expands your virtual hangar with 14 exciting aircraft, three popular helicopters and four very cool flying sites. There's sure to be something for everyone.

The most exciting model in this Add-On is, without a doubt, the Harrier Jump Jet. Just as with the real jet, you can rotate the nozzles to take off vertically, and once you're airborne, you can rotate them again for conventional flight. To take full advantage of this feature, you need the new G2 USB Interlink Controller. Not to worry, though; if you have the older controller, you can use one of the switches to rotate the nozzles between horizontal and vertical flight. Flying the Harrier is a blast; as you take off vertically and increase the thrust, dust starts to blow up all around. Very cool! It takes some practice to fly the Harrier, but you'll be a better pilot after you've mastered it.

The four new flying sites are also very cool. If you like flying over open ocean, then flying from the battleship will provide many thrills. It's quite a kick to be launched from the catapult. If you're a chopper pilot, each site holds fun challenges for you. For example, Snow Park has openended hangars right next to the runway. I had a ball flying through them inverted and backward with the Caliber 30 heli.

This newest release from Great Planes has a lot to offer and is a lot of fun. The Harrier alone is worth the price of admission. RealFlight Add-Ons, Volume 4 costs $29.99 and is a great addition to RealFlight G2.

Great Planes Model Mfg. Co. (800) 682-8948; greatplanes.com.