Can You Have AI in Multiplayer FSX: SE?
Many flight simulation enthusiasts have been asking whether it’s possible to have AI (artificial intelligence) aircraft in the multiplayer mode of Microsoft Flight Simulator X: Steam Edition (FSX: SE). The short answer is yes, it is indeed possible to incorporate AI into the multiplayer mode, with a few caveats and workarounds.
Firstly, let’s understand the importance of AI aircraft in the multiplayer environment. AI aircraft add realism and depth to the multiplayer experience by populating the virtual skies with computer-controlled planes. This helps to create a more dynamic and immersive atmosphere during multiplayer sessions, especially when flying in busy airspace or at major airports.
In FSX: SE, the default multiplayer mode does not natively support AI traffic. This means that when flying with other players, you will only see the actual player-controlled aircraft and no AI traffic. However, there are a couple of ways to incorporate AI aircraft into the multiplayer environment.
One popular method is to use third-party AI traffic add-ons. These add-ons can inject AI-controlled airplanes into the game, even in multiplayer mode. Some popular AI traffic packages for FSX: SE include Traffic 360 and Ultimate Traffic Live. These add-ons can provide a plethora of AI aircraft, realistic liveries, and flight plans, which can significantly enhance the multiplayer experience.
Another approach is to coordinate with other players to manually fly AI-controlled aircraft. By having additional players volunteer to operate AI aircraft, you can collectively create a more vibrant and realistic multiplayer environment. This requires coordination and communication among the players to ensure standardized procedures and realistic flight behavior for the AI planes.
However, it’s important to note that incorporating AI traffic into the multiplayer mode can impact performance, especially if the network and system resources are limited. The additional load of rendering and controlling AI aircraft can strain the system, potentially causing lag and other issues during multiplayer sessions.
Furthermore, compatibility and synchronization of AI aircraft across different players’ systems can be a challenge. While some add-ons offer multiplayer compatibility, there may still be discrepancies between players in terms of AI traffic appearance and behavior.
In conclusion, while it is possible to have AI traffic in the multiplayer mode of FSX: SE, it requires additional third-party add-ons or manual coordination among players. This can enhance the realism and immersion of multiplayer flying, but it also comes with potential performance and synchronization challenges. Ultimately, the decision to incorporate AI traffic into multiplayer sessions depends on the preferences and technical capabilities of the players involved.
