Dear pilots,
We proudly present the first update of 2011 - Version 1.017 is now ready for you. The main subject of this update is a famous German bomber the Gotha G. V! We started work in this iconic aircraft back in December and we finally finished it just a few days ago. We had to do quite a bit of research about its equipment and design of its cabin along with many other unique characteristics of the aircraft. Some of this data was in doubt and we had to check and re-check it repeatedly and build a table and look for discrepancies and try to reconcile the information. As a result, we feel we have the most accurate copy of this aircraft, both in terms of appearance and flight characteristics ever in a flight sim and maybe even since the real aircraft actually flew. Building something nearly a hundred years removed from the era in which it flew is very challenging. By building planes such as the Gotha from the origin of aviation has shown to us that we do not only make a game, but also engage in real historical research.
The plane turned out excellent and it flies as well as it looks. In comparison with its historical opponent the British HP 0/400; the Gotha is swifter in both its lines and in its capabilities. It possesses wonderful agility, a better ceiling and a high speed for its class. This aircraft is capable of performing missions to the rear of the enemy and when used at high altitudes it makes for a dangerous opponent.
The Gotha features a diverse bomb load, bombsight with optical zoom, two machine guns and three crew members. The aft gunner can also fire underneath the plane thanks to a tunnel designed into the fuselage. Early Gotha operations had a third gunner who shared the same cab as the aft gunner. Due to this, the gunners had to choose awkward firing positions when the threat came from certain directions. Later this additional gunner was eliminated after recognizing it as ineffective and adding unwanted weight to the bomber.
The Gotha V has nice piloting characteristics, but has several tendencies pilots should be aware of. In exchange for better maneuvering, the machine has a tendency to enter into a spin, including during takeoff and landing. The aircraft is also prone to nosing over, but these issues are typical symptoms of "thoroughbred" aircraft like the Gotha.
Special thanks to all who pre-ordered this aircraft. It allowed us to think more about the quality of the simulation of this aircraft.
Also Version 17 contains of a number of fixes and additions to the various modules of ROF. As always, the full list will be posted on the forum.
Many thanks to the editors and members of SimHQ.com and CombatAce.com for the awards they have bestowed on our product! Rise of Flight: Iron Cross Edition - SimHQ Best Commercial Software Update / Add-on / Mod / DLC 2010; CombatAce Editor’s Choice Award 2010 (5 out of 5 stars). It gives us strength and motivation for further high-tempo development and confidence in our chosen path.
In parallel to the work on the Version 17, we are still working on the new Career Mode. We like the preliminary results and we hope that our Beta testers will be able to begin flights in this mode soon. The work on this mode is going strong because we know that you have been waiting for it patiently. In February we will populate and test this game mode in earnest. Believe us when we say that this has been the most interesting part of the development thus far. Also, we plan to release the first couple of two-seater scout aircraft for ROF in Q1’. You will see the first images of the Breguet 14 and DFW C.V very soon. Then we will work on other highly sought after aircraft for ROF.
Big Aircraft Sale! February 1st – 6th
In celebration of Update 1.017 we are happy to offer you our best aircraft sale to date! If you have not completely filled out your ROF hangar, now is the time to do so. All planes are on sale! The Gotha G.V and Handley Page 0-400 are just $11.99 each and ALL other planes are just $2.99! Go create your own special bundle at awesome savings!
Don’t forget that you can purchase planes as a Gift for your friends and squadron mates.
All aircraft are available at the ROF Store.
Thanks and good luck in the virtual sky!