SWS Weekend update on the Kodiak, remodeled cabin, new cabin configuration and compatibility with MSFS 2024 are the Highlights.
Starting with the 3D model, we managed to get the interior broken up into Submodels successfully. The next task is to get the exterior to the same point, which is expected to happen on Monday. While this doesn’t mean much to the end-user, this allows for two important advantages:
— Smaller download size: instead of exporting large, monolithic models of the aircraft, it is broken down in reusable parts that can be exchanged across variants.
— Expandability: Submodel-capable aircraft can be modded, whether by us or 3rd parties. Do you want a medevac variant that the bad folks at SWS doesn’t give you? Make the cabin equipment and stretcher and add it in yourself!
Additionally, we have added the new pilot and more detailed passenger seats, while replacing the “Tundra” seats with the more modern “Timberline” design. The new cabin shell won’t be part of the update as we are still fixing things on it, and we won’t be able to finish it before the holiday break.
In the flight model front, we worked on the flight model, improving pitch stability and handling across the envelope. The plane feels smoother, and pitch response is not as abrupt as before. The engine was also modified to respond quicker, and we think that we fixed the bug that caused reverse to produce forward thrust in midair. The flap autotrim was also modified, and nose ballooning is now less.
Systems-wise, we have implemented most of the features that the Working Title G1000 supports. No labels have been added to the Engine Indicating System yet, we intend to do a plugin with the correct indications as well as flaps and elevator trim after the PC-12 avionics chapter is closed.
We want to have the Kodiak (and other product) updates out before Christmas and are working full steam to get it to you!
This work is also done with FS2024 in mind, as we are trying to make the FS2020 version of the plane work as well as possible in FS2024. It will also be among the very first planes we will upgrade to FS2024 native (paid upgrade), as it can fill many roles in the career system and has been a community favorite since its release.
Finally, next week we will report on all our aircraft updates, as well as some important changes we will be doing to our website and infrastructure next year.