From: RWalenciak@aol.com
Subject: MS Combat Flight Simulator PR (a bit long)

Saw this and thought it might be interesting to some of you....

They've finally done it. Microsoft is entering the combat flight simulation
fray with the soon-to-be-released Microsoft Combat Flight Simulator. Many
years in the making, Combat Flight Simulator painstakingly recreates World War
II Europe, where fighter planes that are now legendary tore up the skies (and
each other) over Britain, France, and Germany.

Ultrarealism is why this product has been so long in the making. Developed by
aeronautical engineers, pilots, and programmers, Combat Flight Simulator is a
state-of-the-art simulation and the foundation for technologies Microsoft
plans to use in future versions of civilian Flight Simulator.

Flight Models Soar

They're the most realistic of all the air combat games. It's not enough to
point and shoot, you actually have to be able to fly the planes! (Eight are
included: Republic P-47D, North American P-51D, Hawker Hurricane Mk. I,
Supermarine Spitfire Mks. I and IX, Messerschmitt 109 E and G, Focke-Wulfe
190).

Engine Models Roar

They correctly re-create high-end flight details for each of the aircraft:
supercharging, torque, and propeller effects such as drag from a windmilling
prop and different prop directions.

Atmosphere Modeling and More

Certain planes fly faster and better at certain altitudes. You'll vividly
discover that the P-51D, with a great supercharger, is a superb high-altitude
fighter, attaining top speed at 25,000 feet. The Messerschmitt's supercharger
isn't as good, attaining top speeds at only 13,000 feet. External forces are
modeled too: Drag increases with the number and position of external rockets
or bombs. A fully loaded Spitfire Mk. IX behaves much differently than an
unloaded one. Bombs away!

Detailed, Historically Accurate Scenery

The area between London and Berlin is geographically correct. Key landmarks
appear — famous buildings, lakes, rivers, and roads. Import and export scenery
and aircraft from civilian Flight Simulator too. Dogfighting 737s? You bet!

Once you're proficient behind the stick, here's where the action is:

Campaigns

The Battle of Britain and the Battle over Europe. Fly from the Axis or Allied
side. Air-to-air and air-to-ground missions too. Scoring system helps you win
medals and promotions…if you survive.

Special Effects

Explosions, debris, smoke (several types and colors), muzzle flashes, sparks,
fire. Not just visual — debris, fire, and concussions affect your plane! 

Force feedback, multiple players (up to eight over the Internet),
scintillating sounds all supported.