X-Wing HD mod shows off latest advancements with new video
XWVM, the HD mod for the 1993 classic X-Wing game, recently received a new video showcasing its latest advancements.
The video covers a lot of new tweaks since I last covered the mod back in March. The mod itself promises improve the original X-Wing “in almost every way”, but will keep the game’s original gameplay aspects and content.
You can check out the 22-minute video below. I’m especially impressed by how sharp the new planet system looks:
Here’s a summary of the improvements covered by the video:
- HDR and light improvements: Sun and lasers emit glow. Missions will also feature different lighting/mood when retrying.
- Multiple test missions added to the mission selector. Mission descriptions show text crawl or description.
- New planets: They are higher resolution, 3D and animated.
- Planet animations: Planets rotate, have city lights at night and clouds move. They’ll be at different “times of day” every time.
- Planet and sun positions are randomized at the start of the mission for variety.
- Different planets for each mission.
- AI uses torpedoes against bigger ships; improvement AI aiming with ion cannons.
- Improved explosions.
Overall, this mod is looking very promising! I’m definitely excited to eventually play it. Of course, no release date has been announced just yet, so we’ll have to wait a bit longer.
To follow the mod’s progress, check out its Moddb page or Facebook group.
Note that if you do want to give this mod a go once it does release, you’ll need to own a copy of the 1993 X-Wing game. That game can be picked up on GOG.com and there’s also a version on Steam. Both cost US$9.99 when not on sale.
