Digital Integration #39
Games developed: 8 Games published: 2 Period: 1987 - 1997
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Not so long ago, flight simulation games used to be a "niche" genre, because realism in flight simulators demands a lot of hardware processing power and graphics capabilities-- something for which computers of yore were ill-equiped. Before the advent of 3D accelerators and super-fast microchip that is more capable than dozens of mainframes only a decade ago, flight sim designers had to be creative and ingenious in circumventing or taking advantage of hardware limitations. Digital Integration (DI) is one company that always brings out the best in current PCs, even in its humble beginnings over a decade ago. DI's sims are always a cut above most sims on the market for: 1) great level of realism and detail - subsequent sims get more and more authentic as PCs become more powerful, and even the earliest DI sims offer much more realism than its contemporaries; 2) well-balanced design - even with its emphasis on realism, DI never loses sight of the all-important fact that games should be fun to play. Their sims therefore offer multiple realism levels (e.g. Arcade & Realistic modes) from which armchair pilots can select to suit their skill level and gameplay preference. Unlike most sims that are either arcade games in disguise or hard-core sims obsessed with details, DI sims appeal to both camps; 3) great "extras" to sims - in addition to the solid flight model and gameplay, DI also goes above and beyond other sims by offering excellent additional options that truly enhance the game's play value. These have included excellent "mission planning" feature (Tornado) and comprehensive training missions (Apache Longbow). Digital Integration is alive and well. In addition to continuing excellence in flight sims, the company has lately diversified into the RTS (real-time strategy) arena with Rival Realms. The company was acquired in 1998 by Titus but continues to exist as a separate company. Related companies: Titus
Related companies: Titus
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