This is a big update that includes access to the mission editor and a new vehicle, the F/A-26B. There are also a bunch of optimizations so the game runs smoother than ever before.
The mission editor is a work in progress, so it's missing some features, but you'll be able to create and share scenarios like those found in the Island campaign. You can place allied and enemy units in the air, sea or on the ground, set up paths and waypoints, configure objectives and events, and more. I will post more information in the discussion board. Over time, the editor will be improved and expanded. Please note that missions created in the current version of the editor may or may not be compatible with future updates. I've included a few example missions for the AV-42C and F/A-26B which you can play, edit, or use as a reference for creating your own.
The F/A-26B is a twin-engine carrier-capable fighter aircraft that can be equipped for air-superiority or attack roles. It has an internal 20mm rotary cannon and 10 external weapon hardpoints. It can also carry up to 3 external fuel tanks and a targeting pod. It features a new radar system used for detecting targets and locking on for firing medium range radar guided missiles. There isn't a campaign for it yet, but I've included a couple combat missions created in the mission editor.
Check out the release video.
Thank you to everyone playing VTOL VR, joining the discussion on Steam and Discord, and leaving reviews! Early access has been going great and I hope to continue to see all of you until full release day and beyond.
If you find any issues with the new features, please leave a message in the Steam discussion board or discord channel.
For the next update, I will continue to work on the editor, and improve the two flyable vehicles. I'll also be working on converting the current campaign missions to the new system -- they are still using old versions of the units that are less optimized -- and will return to working on new missions for the Island campaign.
Down the road, I'll be looking at ways to improve the map, and plan how to implement a map editor.
A full list of changes for this update are below:
Alpha v0.0.7
Improvements
= Added VT Edit (custom mission editor)
= Added F/A-26B Fighter/attack jet
- Added CBU-97 cluster bomb
- Improved optimization of missile and rocket launchers
- Added target-look mode for spectator camera
- Added external audio mode toggle for spectator camera
- Improved autopilot nav and heading modes
- Added shot lead cue for air-to-air missiles
- Added new stationary SAM and radar units for enemy team
- Added more realistic behavior and symbology to RWR
- Added sound effects to bullet hits
- Setup LODs for AV-42C AI unit
- Updated enemy fighter model and weapons (ASF-33)
Changes
- Set fuel density, capacity, and drain rates to more realistic values
- Engine tilt inputs are scaled
- Increased altitude limit
- Adjusted AV-42C rudder aero and flight assist PIDs
- Changed RWR ping sound
- Updated intro scene
Fixes
- Fixed engine audio suddenly getting louder instead of fading when opening doors
- Fixed missing fog in TGP camera view
- Fixed incorrect thumb control behavior on throttle for Vive controllers
- Fixed issue when AI pilot is chasing a target that gets destroyed
- Fixed weapon switching getting stuck on AGM in manual uncage mode
- Fixed: Free locomotion wouldn't move in the correct direction sometimes
- Fixed issues when attempting to fire multiple AGMs in manual uncage mode