As the article states, Mike Patey’s Draco is in game and Got Gravel is currently starting Flight Model work while we finish the 3D model and textures. Here is an exclusive look also posted on Got Gravel’s Discord Server (The best place to follow progress):
Very much looking forward to the Wildcat - That’s my kind of aeroplane!
Will all of these releases end up on the Xbox? Very much looking forward to the Wildcat if that’s true!
The Grumman F4F WildcatFish would be nice to have, something more uncommon
We will be posting sneak peek updates soon for the F4F-4 Wildcat in the near future. LOADS of exciting features, previews and information to share with all of you, from unique Flap controls to a Got Friends special announcement.
Make sure you’re following this thread to see it first.
Thank you all for your patience on upcoming previews/updates! Been busy getting the Gee Bee R3 sorted out with Asobo for the Marketplace release (SOON) and rebuilding my PC. Without further more…
GRUMMAN F4F-4 WILDCAT: DEV UPDATE #1:
Oh man, where to start? The F4F-4 has been a dream of ours for a long time. We originally talked to Carlocestra285 about incorporating his base model into the game earlier this year. After the success of the Gee Bee and hungry to bring the public a true historic simulation, we embarked on the Grumman F4F-4! Carlocestra285’s model was a perfect base model but it lacked realism and accuracy. So the first thing we needed to do was a complete 3D Overhaul. Our goal was to bring the most accurate 3D model we could. Achieving a higher quality F4F-4 than any developer in any Simulator currently in release. For this we started scouting for serious talent to join the “Got Friends” development group, and today we are happy to officially announce our 4th crew member.
Introducing Mykrode as our official 4th member and dedicated 3D Modeler!
His work is phenomenal and you may have recognized some of his MSFS Freeware available at Flightsim.to (Listed Below). He is also a dedicated 3D Modeler for Virtual Anarchy, a gaming studio developing a fully futuristic VTOL Simulator on Steam.
MyKrode’s work on the F4F-4 has been handcrafted, beyond expectation, and truly exceptional when it comes to historical accuracy. Between him and 270Inc, they were tasked to bring Carlocestra285’s base model to an accurate standard. Here is some development insights and final in-game renders:
Now let’s talk about Got Gravel! He has been working overtime to bring certain features to the F4F-4. Some of these features are first-time implementations into MSFS! First, he custom modeled a fully functional Flap system that accurately simulates the hydraulic flaps with aerodynamic push back. Next, he has done ground work for the overall flight model. Using historical data, he has been able to get the plane flying in a very stable state, more to come on that in further updates. He is also developing a custom HTML script that allows tablet control of catapult takeoffs and tail hook arrestor landings without the need for a 3rd party application. This is going to be a game changer at release and because of this we will be able to incorporate Xbox compatibility for carrier operations. After SU6, he also was able to further fine tune the Flight Model, Engine and Propeller properties thanks to Asobo unlocking deeper control.
Well, that’s all we have for you today! Hopefully this update answers some questions and places the Grumman F4F-4 on your mind for more updates! Be sure to follow this thread for more in the future. As always, Got Friends would like to thank you all for your patience and support during our growth. May we bring you more aircraft, more fun, and a better simulation experience in the future!
- Jonx (Got Friends Development Group)
Very excited for the F4F, especially integrated cat/arrestor functionality!
I would have never guessed MSFS was going to get some many amazing releases when it first came released, I feel spoiled for choice! The F4F has been on my personal wishlist for a long time and I am looking forward to checking this out. I also like the screenshots taken at Fantasy of Flight. I have watched Kermit’s video’s on his FM-2 many times!
To ease any concerns, specifically in light of the Gee Bee R3’s scaling issues, we are doing rigorous testing on the F4F-4 in VR to ensure everything modeled is to scale and working as it should in VR.
I am not that much into warbirds in MSFS (I love WW2 sims tho), but I am definitely down for a Wildcat. It is a classic in my mind after flying it in “Aces of the Pacific” and “1942: Pacific Air War” back when I was a kid. Nostalgia is powerful on this one.
I have access to a F4F (I forget which model, FM-2 I think). Do you need pictures?
Aces was my first bought game!
Have fond memories of both of them!!
Any pictures would be wonderful. Please send them in a PM or to Gotfriends.msfs@gmail.com.
We are currently working on a flight line that has access to a museum model. But aside from that reference and Google, any additional references help!
GRUMMAN F4F-4 WILDCAT: DEV UPDATE #2:
(Landing Gear, Drop Tanks, Effects, and Nodes)
I’ll keep this rather short because I know you all are more interested in the new previews rather than the details! These last two weeks have been awesome for our team. We have made many strides on the Wildcat. The highlights this week include complex landing gear animations (Video Below), introduction of drop tanks (still WIP), adding multiple effects and getting certain nodes situated, like the Pilot model.
Well, without further explanation, let’s just jump into it:
Landing Gear Testing Video (Not Final):
That’s all for now! See you all soon!
Will this be out on the Xbox?
Yes sir! Xbox for all future aircraft!
Great. Instant buy for me! Can’t wait
nice work on the Wildcat LG - pilot had to crank it up manually - it was literally a bicycle chain and sprocket that the pilot cranked by hand. Wildcats would bob a bit on takeoff as the pilot cranked up the gear…
Looking great. Look forward to flying her soon!