AUTHENTICATION FAILED [ERROR]

Fun and Addictive! I like the requirement of time management and plan ahead on every moves.

Having discovered this game within the confines of the internet, and remembering myself coming across this game a few years back, back when I would mindlessly watch whatever came across my recommended on YouTube, I was excited to begin my journey with this game.

Although I may only have a few hours on this game as of yet, I find that the quality, craftsmanship, and overall detail within the game is outstanding. From the reverse thrusters, to the flaps, to the gear, to the spoilers, every inch of every model of plane found within the game is marked and considered with much detail. The scenery, however, could be remodeled. Especially within the surrounding areas of Haneda Airport, which is the only airport I have decided to purchase so far, the scenery tends to be sparse, and one can tell that this game is lacking when it comes to the modern age of games. In the end, however, the scenery does not take away from the experience, and does add some charm. Even the boats in the background have been animated to slowly meddle within the bay, which, when I discovered this fact, was a wonderful revelation.

The game, when it comes to the variety of aircraft, is not lacking, and is abundant. One can experience handling aircraft from 747's, 777's, A321's, A320's, 737's, etc. However, more models could be introduced in the future, with future updates.

When it comes to the liveries, yes, it is disheartening and disappointing to have airlines named after colors, from Black to White, Green to Blue, and one can sometimes tell which airline they are mimicking. I do realize and understand why actual corporations have been removed from the game, for it may be within the Steam TOS that one must be endorsed or approved by a company to show their likeness within the game, and getting approval from all Airlines mentioned or presented within the original game will be a hassle, and untimely. These airlines can become repetitive, and mundane, for I do not believe that the creators have attempted to recreate or introduce a copying airline for all of the original liveries shown in the game, which is unfortunate.

Now about the game itself, and first off, the game play is absolutely wonderful, and challenging. This is a puzzle game, and is unlike any other ATC game out there to date, (Tower 3D, etc.) and it truly provides a captivating, and enjoyable experience for those wanting to have a taste of the experiences Air Traffic Controllers have. Starting off, with Haneda at least, the game is quite easy, slow, and relaxed, but, with the introduction of new levels, they progressively become much harder, even with certain automatic controllers aiding with the control of aircraft. Starting around level 3 or 4, one can become overwhelmed and confused from what to do, and how to prevent collisions. Sometimes however, certain warnings and repercussions occur without any context as to what you have done, further adding to the confusion, and maybe frustration one may feel. The movement in the game, I must say, is unique. When in the tower, viewing planes, etc, one must move their viewpoint by dragging on their screen first, and then the game will follow. Once you experience the game you will understand, I find it difficult to explain, one can become used to it in the end.

I do feel that this game is somewhat needy when it comes to performance, for even with an i7, 16GB RAM, NVIDIA 4070 computer (I recognize that the specs provided are the recommended specs for the game, mostly) the game at times can have reduced frame rates, and slightly putter. I have even witnessed some videos where it seems as if the computer is struggling to process the information being thrown at it.

The price is another story, I do believe that this game provides more than other ATC games, and is more enjoyable in the end, but it has fallen to the same level as others due to its pricing. Much like Tower 3D, and others, the game, for one airport, costs a whopping $60, and that's the base game. If you would like to experience a separate, differing airport, like Osaka, or Nagoya, you need to cash out another $50. I understand, and realize that this game is independently created, but for the price you pay, one may expect for more than what you ultimately receive.

This game as stated, is also by now ten years old. I expect that a quintuple, version of this game is in the makes, but I do not know. It seems that more previously, a more stylized and arcady game was released earlier this year, so maybe I am wrong.

Overall, I do recommend this game to others if they are interested in Aviation or other similar industries, for it introduces and provides challenging game play and an enjoyable experience. However, I would recommend purchasing this game during a sale, most likely one succeeding a new airport release, for at $30, this game is most definitely worth the price. I do hope that the Steam Workshop, or modifications will be more streamlined in the future, to prevent the deturance that is the mock liveries, for it would help to increase the appeal and worth of the game.

Overall enjoyable, fun, intuitive, exciting, challenging, and detailed.