Lock On: Modern Air Combat stands as a significant entry in the combat flight simulation genre, originally released for PC on November 20, 2003. Developed by the creators of the Flanker series, Eagle Dynamics, and published by Ubisoft, the game aims to bridge the gap between the breadth of Jane's USAF and the intense accuracy of the Falcon series. With a Metacritic score of 76.00, the title is recognized for its ambitious scope and technical depth, though the retail version at launch presented challenges that made it a title for dedicated simulation enthusiasts.
Aircraft Roster and Gameplay Mechanics
One of the defining strengths of Lock On: Modern Air Combat is its extensive roster of aircraft, each simulated with distinct avionics and handling characteristics. Players have access to eight separate planes, allowing for a wide variety of combat roles. The lineup includes the A-10A Warthog, the F-15C Eagle, the Su-27 Flanker, the Su-33 Flanker-D, the Su-25 Frogfoot, and three variations of the MiG-29 Fulcrum. Each aircraft is simulated with stunning attention to detail, resulting in each plane having a very distinct "personality."
The simulation is far removed from arcade-style shooters. Every aircraft possesses unique characteristics that require mastery. The A-10A Warthog, a ground assault aircraft with simpler avionics compared to modern air superiority jets, still demands a deep understanding of its weapon systems. Pilots cannot simply press a button to fire weapons; they must learn how to deploy AGM-65 Maverick missiles, understanding the differences between the TV and IR versions and how they discern targets from the ground. Success requires mastering flight profiles to maximize target lock ranges and operating the cannon and unguided rockets.
Conversely, pilots flying the F-15 or the MiG-29 must master modern air-to-air radar operations. The Su-25 Frogfoot presents a different challenge entirely, offering a crude, HUD-less cockpit experience that forces players to rely on different navigation and targeting methods. The flight models reveal tremendous performance differences, ensuring that proficiency in one jet does not translate directly to another.
Setting and Conflict
The game places players in the center of a fictional conflict situated above and around the Black Sea. The maps are constructed using precise satellite data, resulting in fantastically detailed geography that offers a reasonable variety of terrain for aerial maneuvers. This setting serves as the backdrop for various gameplay modes, including instant action missions and a massive, comprehensive mission editor that allows for deep customization of scenarios.
Notable Features
- Steep Learning Curve: The challenge level is quite high, with enemy AI demonstrating a serious understanding of energy management and radar profiles.
- Comprehensive Tutorials: Each aircraft has its own specific tutorial section covering its abilities and systems, helping pilots understand the ins and outs of their chosen jet before entering combat.
- Difficulty Scaling: While the simulation is unforgiving, the game allows players to scale the difficulty by enabling aids such as unlimited ammunition and fuel, or by limiting crash penalties.
- Flight Editor: A robust mission editor allows players to create and share complex combat scenarios.
Who Should Play?
Lock On: Modern Air Combat appeals primarily to hardcore simulation enthusiasts and flight sim fans who crave authenticity. It is ideal for players who have felt the genre had moved away from serious combat flight sims and are looking for a title that demands a serious understanding of aircraft systems, avionics, and energy management. It is a must-have for those who appreciate the technical depth found in series like Falcon and Jane's, provided they are willing to invest the time to learn the systems and potentially wait for patches to mitigate early retail bugs.
