[688iGuy]

I think Microsoft Flight Simulator is the perfect example of the successful complex-sim business model. Eye popping graphics for the simple minded consumer, yet a highly complex and realistic simulation for the dedicated fans. With the exception of maybe flying an ultralight, I would say that game is just as difficult, if not more so, to learn, yet people buy it, including kids. Why? Graphics.


Its the same reason nobody buys Sega Genesis games anymore, people don't want to buy yesterdays technology.


It's not a matter of market. There are just as many Tom Clancy reading, naval oriented individuals out there as there are casual propeller heads, but they need to be drawn in.


Sonalysts shot themselves in the foot with this one by offering piss-poor graphics. The dedicated fan who will buy a game regardless of visuals is a very small market for ANY sim. Take away Flight Simulators graphics and I'm sure its fate would be the same as DW.



Not to mention I think the campaign was very weak, the game was riddled with bugs, etc etc. They half-assed it.


Don't get me wrong, I love the game and am one of the few dedicated consumers would have bought this game regardless, but Sonalysts messed this up, not us, and not the masses for not accepting crappy graphics. The blame falls squarely on Sonalysts. They blew it for all of us.