Pilot Academy

Pilot Academy is a PSP flight simulator that covers all eras of flying, from old WWI fighter planes like the famed Fokker Triplane (passed by the “Red Baron” Manfred von Richthofen) to modern military and civilian jet aircraft like the F-15, F-16, and Boeing 747. All aircraft names and designs are registered trademarks. The game teaches the user the fundamentals of powered flight for both civilian and military uses in the first few courses. The game uses all PSP buttons to simulate flying, with the analog nub acting as a joystick. It is also possible to control the flaps, air brakes, raise and lower the landing gear, and use the tail rudder. Military aircraft are equipped with air-to-ground, air-to-air, machine guns, and flares for missile defense. The only thing lacking from the simulation is a fuel gauge, but given how short most missions are, this was most likely a purposeful design choice. After completing civilian and military flight courses, the player can select from various tasks and difficulties. Conducting a job unlocks new aircraft in the player’s hangar, which can be flown inaccessible flight mode at any time (although only on the tropical map). Distinctions are also rewarded for mission completion based on time, aircraft integrity, objective completion, and level of excitement/comfort of passengers (if any) and indicate the level of proficiency of the player pilot. Flights occur across various scenery, including tropical, desert, and snow-covered mountains and gorges, and in diverse weather situations such as rain, snow, and even storms. Some missions begin when the player is already in the air, while others need the player to taxi onto the runway, take off, then land after fulfilling the objective. Up to four players can battle against each other or cooperatively with planes from any of the four military periods; for example, a dogfight between a WWII propellers plane like the P-51 Mustang or Spitfire vs. an F-14 Tomcat or F-16 Falcon is feasible.