Lock On: Modern Air Combat

 PC
  • Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Release Date: Jul 26, 2005
User Score
7.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 553 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 383 out of 553
  2. Mixed: 72 out of 553
  3. Negative: 98 out of 553
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  1. CellarDweller
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    People who obviously can't run the game and have terrible system specs should not even rate the game!!! This is by far the nicest and best flight sim recently released. Yes it has bugs and that is the ONLY reason it did not get a 10 from me... Once the patch comes out it may be a 10... I agree game was released premature but graphically and physically this is one sweet sim... All the People who obviously can't run the game and have terrible system specs should not even rate the game!!! This is by far the nicest and best flight sim recently released. Yes it has bugs and that is the ONLY reason it did not get a 10 from me... Once the patch comes out it may be a 10... I agree game was released premature but graphically and physically this is one sweet sim... All the crying is from folks that have outdated or obsolete OS's and system specs that probably couldn't run PAC MAN in it's true form... Tired of all the whining... … Expand
  2. MeMyself
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Just a great game. Some people have bugs but with a good config you should be fine. The graphics and flight models are outstanding and the many planes flyable allows great diversity.
  3. EdwardC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Graphically this game is stunning. The Flight model is also fantastic, however there is no dynamic campaign and there are only a few missions for each aircraft. The Mission/Campaign builder is a good feature, but options are rather limited. If there were a dynamic and varied campaign this game would score 10/10 easily.
  4. 123123
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Troch? du?e wymagania ale gra jest po prostu wspania?a.
  5. IvanB.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    This game earns a solid 10 and here is the reason why. Lock On fills a void that has existed in the combat flight sim market for more then 5 years. It has all the base features and a visual system that is better then most multi-million dollar military flight simulations. Sure the program has it?s issues but the developer is actively addressing them. The developers understand the community This game earns a solid 10 and here is the reason why. Lock On fills a void that has existed in the combat flight sim market for more then 5 years. It has all the base features and a visual system that is better then most multi-million dollar military flight simulations. Sure the program has it?s issues but the developer is actively addressing them. The developers understand the community they are developing for. Lock ON! has a bright future and a strong fan base. Again that alone is worth a strong score of 5. Lock ON! earns the other 5 points due to the fact that you get a good mix of planes out of the box. The detail in the planes and the environment are amazing. You have strong multiplayer options and the program despite its bug issues runs well granted your system meets the games basic requirements. Flight Models feel very convincing. And the game includes a powerful mission builder. But the most important aspect of all is that you have a committed team of developers and producers that are fans of the genre. If given the chance, Lock ON may very well become the code platform for many other products. So I don't give Lock ON a 10.. It earns a 10. … Expand
  6. StrikewolfWolf
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    On the whole even on my low spec pc (if I dont mind the loading wait) it runs pretty well ...better than I was expecting but obviuosly I have to turn down some Eye candy. Yes there are a few little niggles here and there but overall for such a complicated piece of software it runs fairly well. I,m sure this game will improve over time as various patches come out and Fans produce more and On the whole even on my low spec pc (if I dont mind the loading wait) it runs pretty well ...better than I was expecting but obviuosly I have to turn down some Eye candy. Yes there are a few little niggles here and there but overall for such a complicated piece of software it runs fairly well. I,m sure this game will improve over time as various patches come out and Fans produce more and more addons etc. I cant stop playing this ..so if you dont mind the odd hiccup then I,d say go and buy it .... Wolf;) … Expand
  7. ChristopherH.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Top quality game. The bugs are being patched as we speak and any issues are USUALLY the result of people who can't tell one end of the PC from another. Top quality future-proof game that I'll be playing for years to come.
  8. RobC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    If you have spent a few years hanging around the Combat Flight Sim Scene, you know that (apart from a product I won't mention) we have been "playing" older, much tweaked, modded, skinned, theatered (spelling?), hacked, edited, and .. and ... Sims for years. Lock On is a breath of fresh air, sure there are a few problems but this a huge piece of code - and the issues are being If you have spent a few years hanging around the Combat Flight Sim Scene, you know that (apart from a product I won't mention) we have been "playing" older, much tweaked, modded, skinned, theatered (spelling?), hacked, edited, and .. and ... Sims for years. Lock On is a breath of fresh air, sure there are a few problems but this a huge piece of code - and the issues are being addressed. Only gripe I had initially (and I think it was an oversight) was the decision to place a "print shop ready PDF" manual on disk instead of the more usual "e-book" style one. Also been fixed. Plenty community activity. Just make sure you do your homework on the rig you need. I am working on a P4 Laptop and am happy. New rig coming, it was time to upgrade anyway. Don't expect to run this on your mothers Win95 PC that you started with Doom 1 on! Keep up the good work Eagle, UBI. I love Lock On ...… Expand
  9. EmmaD.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Please - ignore the reviews who say it doesn't work. How can they review a game if it doesn't work? All the bugs are being fixed in an upcoming patch and Win98 support is fixed. Top game - love playing it!
  10. Brian
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Very great flight modelling and graphics, plays very smoothly on my mid-end system (once effects are set to low or none). My only complaint is that they only included a handful of missions--only 7 for A-10 for instance. Yes you can build your own missions, but then they aren't too fun to play. The lack of missions knocks this game down from a 10 to an 8.
  11. RaymondS.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Will be a "10" when the patch(s) are ultimately available. The most immersive flight sim I've ever flown! The development team should be very proud of this effort..
  12. DanC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Outstanding Sim! There are so many positives about this that I could easily fill a page with praise! There are a few bugs in the sim (what new release is ever bug free?) but it's the bugs that aren't there that shows just how great a job was done by Eagle Dynamics! Several flyable aircraft with sliding realisim and minute attention to detail.. and it all works! This Sim shoul Outstanding Sim! There are so many positives about this that I could easily fill a page with praise! There are a few bugs in the sim (what new release is ever bug free?) but it's the bugs that aren't there that shows just how great a job was done by Eagle Dynamics! Several flyable aircraft with sliding realisim and minute attention to detail.. and it all works! This Sim shoul dappeal to many.. Flight Sim enthusiasts can take to the skies and fly around the beautiful landscapes and do some sightseeing around the varius historic landmarks and structures of the region. Military enthusiasts can strap on some of the best combat aircraft and get some metal on target. You can even create missions where the AI battle each other using naval, air and land assets. Sit back and watch the battle unfold! A great sim which will continue to improve grow as new flyable aircraft are added in the future.… Expand
  13. MattH.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Brilliant, quite buggy for others but is working fine for me. Finally a modern air combat sim!
  14. Carl
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Initially, I had serious stability issues in Win2k and 98SE. After installing XP and a shader-equipped video card, all performance/stability issues disappeared. This game is fantastic, truly reminiscent of the "golden oldies" such as Falcon3 and Torando. Well done ED/Ubi!
  15. BrianV.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    There are noticeable bugs. However, the gameplay is customizable to preference, and I personnaly found this to be the first combat sim to be actually CHALLENGING. I recomend this game to anyone who like moder air combat. Yes, it has bugs, but what game doesn't at release. Even IL2 FB had bugs at release, especially in multiplayer.
  16. ArmandoC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Need some fixes for perfection! would be great if the developer team could develope another sim with just one or two planes with the entire avionic implemented... regards HB.
  17. CHirner
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    This is an ambitious survey sim with an eye to detail. It's a little rough in its current form, but a patch or two from the responsive developers will iron that out in no time. Fabulous gameplay and graphics (though a top machine is required), as well as first class mission builder and multi-player elements are worth your money. It's also playable by a wide range of sim pilots - This is an ambitious survey sim with an eye to detail. It's a little rough in its current form, but a patch or two from the responsive developers will iron that out in no time. Fabulous gameplay and graphics (though a top machine is required), as well as first class mission builder and multi-player elements are worth your money. It's also playable by a wide range of sim pilots - beginners to experts. Remember - every sim has its share of bugs! Buy this one - you won't regret it.… Expand
  18. DavidD.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    The new Benchmark in Jet Sims. Minor bugs, but what software doesn't?
  19. Dave
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Game is definatly worth the 40bucks, but I think it was a little trumpted up in a few of its features.
  20. Kit_
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I like the game alot, but I think it needs a better free manual, and not have to spend more then the price of the game for a nice manual $53.00USD. I would have paid more for the game in the first place if it came with a better manual, My keycard was missing too. As far as the gameplay, I'm pleased with it.
  21. Tom
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This a fantastic flight sim even with the current issues which I am sure will be resolved in the coming patch. I have flown flight sims for over 20 years and this is as close as it gets to the real thing without being overly "button pushing" realistic. I have already got my moneys worth and it will be what I fly for years to come. Be ready for some steep hardware requirements but it is worth it.
  22. JonathanH.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great; needs some tweaks here and there. Mission builder not very intuitive. Cannot place objexts with precision like IL2:FB. Cannot multi-player in to games that launch from carrier :-( Manual was (.pdf) was crap. I would kill for a LO-MAC manual that looked like F4's. VERY GOOD huds, weapons delivery, general "flight" characteristics.
  23. WouterW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    The game has some bugs, difficulties and needs tweaking, both on the user-end and by the devs. this is normal for a flightsim and it is not excessive imo. That said, once it runs, it is a dream come true for every flight simmer. The graphics are absolutely top notch, as is the 'feeling of flight' Weather effects, the detailed objects, the sound effects, everything in it The game has some bugs, difficulties and needs tweaking, both on the user-end and by the devs. this is normal for a flightsim and it is not excessive imo. That said, once it runs, it is a dream come true for every flight simmer. The graphics are absolutely top notch, as is the 'feeling of flight' Weather effects, the detailed objects, the sound effects, everything in it conspires to really put you there as you fight in one of the six lovingly crafted planes. Returning to the point of the bugs and neccesary tweakage, this sim has a very active community, working closely with the developers to make it even better, and helping new players out in mastering this very complex piece of software … Expand
  24. WilliamW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    The best graphics in a flight sim yet (you do need a high spec system). Do yourself a favour and get a mike and Shoot software to rattle of voice commands to your wingmen. Forthcoming patches will no doubt improve this sim and let me use my TrackIR effectively. Don't worry about the lack of a comprehensive manual, there are already lots of brilliant articles coming on stream. This The best graphics in a flight sim yet (you do need a high spec system). Do yourself a favour and get a mike and Shoot software to rattle of voice commands to your wingmen. Forthcoming patches will no doubt improve this sim and let me use my TrackIR effectively. Don't worry about the lack of a comprehensive manual, there are already lots of brilliant articles coming on stream. This sim is an absolute must-have, congratulaions and thanks to the ED team and all concerned for giving hours and hours of fun & pleasure… Expand
  25. VarunA.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    This is truly the state of art combat flight simulation. There may be initial problems in getting the game to be playable. But once finely tuned I feel NO OTHER SIM COMES CLOSE!!! It really feels that we are in the virtual world. I agree there are bugs and Eagle dynamics are going to solve most if not all of them in patches. I suggest everyone that this is a MUST HAVE game for any flight This is truly the state of art combat flight simulation. There may be initial problems in getting the game to be playable. But once finely tuned I feel NO OTHER SIM COMES CLOSE!!! It really feels that we are in the virtual world. I agree there are bugs and Eagle dynamics are going to solve most if not all of them in patches. I suggest everyone that this is a MUST HAVE game for any flight sim fanatic.… Expand
  26. FreyaN.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Supergame!!!!
  27. RowanN
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    I thinks it great, and i,m in love with this game. Superb graphics, and a realistic flightmodel.
  28. JackCurzon
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    First off, this isn't the most user friendly of sims; no doubt about it. If you want to enjoy it, you will have to put some time in. The plus side of this is, if you do, you will discover an incrediably detailed and rich sim that will keep you entertained for days, nay years! Attention to detail is at times breath taking. The most obvious example of this is are the visuals.First off, this isn't the most user friendly of sims; no doubt about it. If you want to enjoy it, you will have to put some time in. The plus side of this is, if you do, you will discover an incrediably detailed and rich sim that will keep you entertained for days, nay years! Attention to detail is at times breath taking. The most obvious example of this is are the visuals. Simply amazing. Aircraft and ground vechiles weapon system are all fully modelled, but not overly complicated - again however, a bit of perseverence is required.
    Aside from the investment in time the only other 'downers' with Lomac are 1) it has a few bugs (a patch is expected in few weeks); nothing to serious but there are some irritating issues, and 2) system requirements. Put simply this is a hog. Don't expect to ramp all the graphics up to high. A computer that can do it hasn't been made yet - but if you ask me, that's just another feather it's cap to secure it's longevity ;). Overall, if you like jets and have bit of time to spare this is somthing you can't miss!
    … Expand
  29. Jackson
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This is a very well balanced game. It's not dauntingly difficult, yet it definitely qualifies as a serious sim. By choosing to model aircraft without ground radar, it's accessible and immersive with a moderate learning curve. However, Ubi rates a 1. As far as I am concerned, Ubisoft is one of the premier game publishers on the market, and I have many of their titles. However, This is a very well balanced game. It's not dauntingly difficult, yet it definitely qualifies as a serious sim. By choosing to model aircraft without ground radar, it's accessible and immersive with a moderate learning curve. However, Ubi rates a 1. As far as I am concerned, Ubisoft is one of the premier game publishers on the market, and I have many of their titles. However, they seem to have dropped the ball with Lock On. I have an average system, and the program works decent for me, but there are so many people that simply can't play the game even though they meet the minimum requirements. I think that that is poor craftsmanship on their part, and I hope that they are able to address it with their current code.… Expand
  30. AdamW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I never thought I'd remove Flanker 2.5 from my HD before I bought this game. Absolutely amazing. Despite some teething problems, it's most definitely a top notch flight sim, and one of the most sastifying simulations of modern era air combat I've ever seen. The fact that it focuses on excellent workhorse planes that have often been overlooked in previous titles in favor of I never thought I'd remove Flanker 2.5 from my HD before I bought this game. Absolutely amazing. Despite some teething problems, it's most definitely a top notch flight sim, and one of the most sastifying simulations of modern era air combat I've ever seen. The fact that it focuses on excellent workhorse planes that have often been overlooked in previous titles in favor of countless F-16, F/A-18 and F-22 sims is even more of a plus. When this game is fully patched, and some of the problems worked out, I fully expect this to be a 10 rated game.… Expand
  31. Thomas
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Whilst the does suffer from bugs in its initial release it's a wonderful release, the attention to detail and the flight model are both superb and you can spend countless hours just looking at things while you fly, I never stop getting amazed at how beautiful it really is once you take the time to look at it. And once you start flying against real opponents you'll really get Whilst the does suffer from bugs in its initial release it's a wonderful release, the attention to detail and the flight model are both superb and you can spend countless hours just looking at things while you fly, I never stop getting amazed at how beautiful it really is once you take the time to look at it. And once you start flying against real opponents you'll really get your moneys worth. … Expand
  32. RichyR.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    The IL-2 of modern air combat!!!
  33. ChuckP.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    The learning curve is a bit steep for a newbie with zero aviation experience. I think that there are a few things that need fixed but overall the sim is very playable. I dont have huge framerate issues unless I add a ton of things to a mission. Overall I think it's excellant. Definitly has huge potential for the future.
  34. ThomasW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Awesome game! Needs to be patched though.
  35. [Anomynous]
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I give this game an 8.5 because it is just excellent...when the patch comes and a lot of the bugs removed, it shall be an excellent game..Dont judge it after 2 hours of playing...its an excellent game..
  36. Dan
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This sim is very engoyable. I have been lucky enough to not have experienced any stability bugs, so I have no complaints. It is rough around the edges, but then again what good sim isn't?
  37. ChrisW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    fantastic sim, it can only get better :)
  38. TR
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    A patch will make it a 10 easy
  39. Adam"Moharo"H.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    The only thing that prevents me giving this game a perfect 10 are the radar bugs and padlock issues that I suffer from. These are both said to be addressed in the upcoming patch. I enjoy the induvidual challenges offered by each of the planes and the wide variety of mission types offfered by the one game. The graphics engine, whilst terribly system hungry provides beautiful landscapes, The only thing that prevents me giving this game a perfect 10 are the radar bugs and padlock issues that I suffer from. These are both said to be addressed in the upcoming patch. I enjoy the induvidual challenges offered by each of the planes and the wide variety of mission types offfered by the one game. The graphics engine, whilst terribly system hungry provides beautiful landscapes, graceful highly detailed aircraft and fantastic battles; whilst the AI provide a challenge that can be tailored from mildy challenging to downright deadly. I have no issues with recommending this game.… Expand
  40. Wolfgang
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Lock-On is a serious flight simulator which requires a fairly modern system to successfully run. I experienced a few hurdles on initial install including turning off virtual CD and updating video drivers. After that it is pure joy. The new release version omitted including a key card. A simple request to UbiSoft corrected that omission with a keycard quickly sent via mail. Solid support Lock-On is a serious flight simulator which requires a fairly modern system to successfully run. I experienced a few hurdles on initial install including turning off virtual CD and updating video drivers. After that it is pure joy. The new release version omitted including a key card. A simple request to UbiSoft corrected that omission with a keycard quickly sent via mail. Solid support is offered in forums found on the Lock-On web site. A patch is forthcoming testifying to the committment of this simulator's success. Overall this simulator is a well balenced blend of flight simulation that will provide many hours of enjoyment for years to come. Immature hot-shot know-it-alls should steer away from this flight sim.… Expand
  41. Skinns
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    A stunning achievement by ED- the sensation of flight is the best ever simple as that. As a pure simulator there is no comparison as far as I am concerned. Throw into that an extremely ambitious model of a modern combat environment and you begin the understand what ED has created here. There are obviously bugs in a product of this complexity but they are not showstoppers at all. I have A stunning achievement by ED- the sensation of flight is the best ever simple as that. As a pure simulator there is no comparison as far as I am concerned. Throw into that an extremely ambitious model of a modern combat environment and you begin the understand what ED has created here. There are obviously bugs in a product of this complexity but they are not showstoppers at all. I have flown LOMAC extensively for over three weeks and I have found it as stable as IL2 was when it first appeared- many of the reported problems appear to me more the result of users configuration conflicts than genuine bugs. My advice is to install LOMAC on a freshly formatted part ion and only LOMAC, it worked for me. You will be amazed by the level of detail and care that has gone into this SIM and given the background of ED they will support the tuning of this product through patches into the future. I only hope they have enough support to add further to a quite superb piece of software. This product deserves to be studied the more time you put in the greater will be your reward. Although I?ve flown it extensively for the last three weeks I have not even scratched the surface such is the depth of the product. I can not recommend it enough to either the seasoned flight sim fan or a new comer. You will not find a better bang for your buck A real jewel that I hope is the beginning of a long line of addons. … Expand
  42. JeffR.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Beautiful graphics, best sense of "being there" of any sim I've seen to date. Dynamic campaign missing. A few too many bugs in initial release. Great potential however. If you let the down's keep you from buying/supporting this sim then you will be missing something.
  43. AntoniusV.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    I know to some, a 10 rating may seem high, but this sim has been an outstanding performer for me. I started w/a low end vid card (ATI 7200 64MB) and it ran w/o a hitch. I upgraded to an ATI 9800 and it just plain freaks me out how beautiful it is. This sim, after all the nit picking and naysayers have had their way, will go down as a history maker and groundbreaker. I have been simming I know to some, a 10 rating may seem high, but this sim has been an outstanding performer for me. I started w/a low end vid card (ATI 7200 64MB) and it ran w/o a hitch. I upgraded to an ATI 9800 and it just plain freaks me out how beautiful it is. This sim, after all the nit picking and naysayers have had their way, will go down as a history maker and groundbreaker. I have been simming since the early 80s and it isn't often a sim has the impact on me that Lock On does. The sky is the limit for this one. Outstanding job Eagle Dynamics.… Expand
  44. Joe
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    I would say overall that it is a very good simulation. Various minor bugs w/ a major hit for win98 issues. (Not bad though considering Microsoft has now issued a cease and desist (support wise) order for win98 and earlier operating systems as of January, I believe.) Runs very well on my system. ATI 8500 AMD XP1700 w/ 512 meg of ram. I'll give them a patch or two just like FB I would say overall that it is a very good simulation. Various minor bugs w/ a major hit for win98 issues. (Not bad though considering Microsoft has now issued a cease and desist (support wise) order for win98 and earlier operating systems as of January, I believe.) Runs very well on my system. ATI 8500 AMD XP1700 w/ 512 meg of ram. I'll give them a patch or two just like FB (Wonderful sim in its own right)… Expand
  45. ZolosP.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Eye candy, CHECK. Flight modeling, CHECK. Game immersion, CHECK. Active online community, CHECK Fun, CHECK.
  46. RicardoM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Good game, born classic. Need some fixes after the 1.0 version.
  47. DavidA.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    First of all most of the user reviews here are obviously from people who didn't spend much time in the game. They're also from people that don't know much about flight sims. In relation to the other flight sims, lock on is clearly the best, and has potential to do two times better at least. Give it some time.
  48. SumonH.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    LOMAC was released with some bugs, but no biggy. Having been a fan of Eagle Dynamics since the original Flanker, I know they (the team and Carl Norman) are very dedicated and passionate about their work. I'm certain that bugs will be fixed and features will be added via patches. Best of all, they listen to their customers. And that is the reason why I gave it such high score LOMAC was released with some bugs, but no biggy. Having been a fan of Eagle Dynamics since the original Flanker, I know they (the team and Carl Norman) are very dedicated and passionate about their work. I'm certain that bugs will be fixed and features will be added via patches. Best of all, they listen to their customers. And that is the reason why I gave it such high score eventhough LOMAC was released with some bugs and broken features. And on top of that it is the best military simulator/game I've played in a long time. And I played them all. :) … Expand
  49. Powder
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    The only downfall for this game are the often intimidated newcomers or those using dated software/hardware.
  50. MikeC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    I can't believe all the winers reviewing this game. If you are using ME or 98, chances are your not going to have a descent system in the first place. If you want a fantastic sim that is first rate AND you have a descent PC (ferferably one with out a crapy OS then this game is for you. Most of the people who have given this game low marks are people that haven't been able to I can't believe all the winers reviewing this game. If you are using ME or 98, chances are your not going to have a descent system in the first place. If you want a fantastic sim that is first rate AND you have a descent PC (ferferably one with out a crapy OS then this game is for you. Most of the people who have given this game low marks are people that haven't been able to play the game so you can't take there word for it. I say buy it. It won't let you down. Mike… Expand
  51. MimesP.
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    Perhaps 9.5 would have been more appropriate score. 0.5 taken out only for a small manual and inability to fly a fast jet with A2A and full A2G capability, such as Mig-29k, or F/A-18 Hornet. Having said that, this absolute gem is the most impressive piece of software I have ever come across. There is simply no competition for Lock-On in the flight simulation market.
  52. SeanW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great game that needs a few patches to be the greatest survey sim yet.
  53. StuartF.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great sim with lots of features to keep idle hands and minds at work for countless hours. Does need some tweaking and an above average machine to get good performace out of it, but not too much, the community will help you out there. There are also a few bugs that need ironed out, but its a veteran development team with great customer interaction so they will be sorted eventually. Great sim with lots of features to keep idle hands and minds at work for countless hours. Does need some tweaking and an above average machine to get good performace out of it, but not too much, the community will help you out there. There are also a few bugs that need ironed out, but its a veteran development team with great customer interaction so they will be sorted eventually. Fantastic visuals, high fidelity flight and systems modeling and an absorbing level of detail makes this sim the new benchmark for modern combat flight sims… Expand
  54. HughA.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Very very good, a bit buggy but I can run it quite well on my 3 yr old machine P4 1.5 GHz GeForce 2 MX 400 786 RAM.
  55. KuleM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This is a very good simulator at the moment and has the potential to outstrip any other flightsims in the very-near future. I didn't give it a 10 because, at the moment, there are quite a few serious bugs. Bug the developers MUST have known about before releasing the game. For example, the Microsoft Force-Feedback 'return-to-centre' bug. Having said that they are working This is a very good simulator at the moment and has the potential to outstrip any other flightsims in the very-near future. I didn't give it a 10 because, at the moment, there are quite a few serious bugs. Bug the developers MUST have known about before releasing the game. For example, the Microsoft Force-Feedback 'return-to-centre' bug. Having said that they are working hard on the first patch and have said that it certainly won't be the past. Which simplt means that they are going to continue to work on it over and over again until it's as good as they can get it. As far as performance issues go, I think many users just don't meet the minimum requirements e.g. having a GFX card that runs DX 8.1. You may have DX 9 installed but if you're card doesn't support 8.1 officially, you're outside the minspec. Plain and simple. I do think that the game has been over-engineered to futureproof it but again I believe that this just means that it will still look fantastic in two or three years. Gameplay is second-to-none so if you're serious about simming you will buy this game.… Expand
  56. ChrisD.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Very good sim, NOT FOR CONSOLE ARCADE GAMERS. A few compatability issues that have to be worked out, but runs fine on my system. The documentation should have been more comprehensive so as not to frustrate flightsim newcomers. Quick System Specs: SOFTWARE: OS: WinXP Pro DIRECT X: 9.0b VIDEO DRIVER: nVidia ver52.16 HARDWARE: MB: Asus A7N266c PROCESSOR: AMD XP2000 @ 1.6GHZ RAM: 1GIG 2100 Very good sim, NOT FOR CONSOLE ARCADE GAMERS. A few compatability issues that have to be worked out, but runs fine on my system. The documentation should have been more comprehensive so as not to frustrate flightsim newcomers. Quick System Specs: SOFTWARE: OS: WinXP Pro DIRECT X: 9.0b VIDEO DRIVER: nVidia ver52.16 HARDWARE: MB: Asus A7N266c PROCESSOR: AMD XP2000 @ 1.6GHZ RAM: 1GIG 2100 DDR VIDEO CARD: nVidia Ti4400128 SOUND CARD: Creative SB Gamer Live CONTROLLERS: HOTAS1: Saitek X36 HOTAS2: TM Cougar (down for mantenance) RUDDER PEDALS: CH Pro Pedals USB VOICE COMMAND: Shoot 1.6 VIEW CONTROL: Track IR2 … Expand
  57. Aceman
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Game has great potiential. Remember falcon 4 how terrible it was at release look at it now. Enough Said!
  58. J.Williams
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great game that needs polishing. Needs a lot of bug fixes to really be solid. It seems that regardless of your machine specs this game has a difficult time running at 30 fps. Excellent graphics and flight models. Waiting for a patch before beginning the campaign mode is good advice. Even with the bugs, and fps performace, this is a stand out product.
  59. McCallaway
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    The game is beautiful, deep, fun to play, but it is a simulation, and it will need the gamer to wish to go in deep. A big computer is needed to fully appreciate it though, and some issues REALLY need a patch. Overall, if you like jets, go get it :)
  60. MattD.
    Dec 16, 2003
    9
    Stunning, no other word for it - the best flight and combat simulation yet. The attention to, and breadth of, detail is astounding. Somehow they have manged to make you feel part of a war, it is a difficult feeling to describe but it is truly a sublime experience watching the world around you unfold as you play your part. There is also a fantastic multiplayer capability, that 'feels Stunning, no other word for it - the best flight and combat simulation yet. The attention to, and breadth of, detail is astounding. Somehow they have manged to make you feel part of a war, it is a difficult feeling to describe but it is truly a sublime experience watching the world around you unfold as you play your part. There is also a fantastic multiplayer capability, that 'feels like' the single-player game - Lock On will grab your attention and not let go whether you want single or multiplayer action. To see it at it's best, you will need a top-end machine, but the game is scalable in terms of what graphics settings it will run on and you should be able to find a happy balance between beauty and performance. I should add that the game is also scalable in terms of difficulty, so it will appeal to novices and experienced simmers alike. Some reviewers have given this game an unjustly hard time. There are a couple of _minor_ bugs (don't all games have them?) but they'll be fixed. It is truly a gem and the most impressive game I've seen for years, right up there with Doom 3 and Halflife 2. Additionally, it will only get better and better - just like IL-2 and IL-2 Forgotten Battles have. The community is also a great resource for new missions and aircraft 'skins', not to mention being very supportive. There is even an additional, leather-bound, manual available at extra cost. It's well worth getting as it has a wealth of extra information in it. Ultimately, if you want to be able to fly a great range of aircraft, feel a fantastic level of realism, have great multiplayer and single player games and marvel at jaw-dropping visuals - there is simply no other choice. Lock On is THE BEST flight and combat sim around. Go and buy it now, you won't be dissappointed. Matt.… Expand
  61. JimC.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    An amazing achievenment for a combat flight simulation. The graphics, flight model, AI, and avionics all combine to give an excellent immersion. You really feel like a fighter pilot!
  62. LudgerW.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    Best jet simulation out there. Wide variety of jets and missions. For beginners and pros. Should be a definite buy for every serious flight simmer.
  63. Chimp=UKLF=
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Truly mind-blowing - IF you've got the system to run it on - and IF it feels like running properly. I feel like a manic depressive playing this game, I either leave my PC wanting to tear my hair out or in a games playing euphoria like I haven't felt in for years....... I so want to give this game a 10, but its just not possible yet. You simply must buy this game but if it Truly mind-blowing - IF you've got the system to run it on - and IF it feels like running properly. I feel like a manic depressive playing this game, I either leave my PC wanting to tear my hair out or in a games playing euphoria like I haven't felt in for years....... I so want to give this game a 10, but its just not possible yet. You simply must buy this game but if it doesn't work don't blame me....… Expand
  64. kaloS.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    Just the greatest air-simulator ever created alongside with Il-2FB. There are bugs, but they could be corrected and are being corrected. It is ade for top rigs, but this is called to look in the future. I play it on my P3 1000 Mhz, 512 RAM and GF4 MX 440SE, I don`t get all the great effects, but still I love this game.
  65. STMYST1100
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Best Flight sim out there. Some minor bugs, but no show stoppers.
  66. DavidC.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Awesome fricken game!! Very great graphics and FM's for all planes. Terrian is outstanding. This is the best sim of its genre out there right now and probably will be for some time. I am running it with Windows 2000 with a P4 2.4GHz, 512ram, Geforce4 and I have absolutely no problems. I have everything turned up in game options and it runs smooth as buttermilk for me!
  67. JimD.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Best sim out in a while. Yes it has some problems and needs a Patch. But don't they all these days. Over all its a very injoyable game. Even for a Falcon 4.0 junkie like me.
  68. GarrethW.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    This game is superb, admittedly theres a few bugs here and there but it is playable out of the box, whether you want to fly around and practice landing or takeoffs, shooting air/ground targets, or maybe get into the campaigns and fly one of the 8 aircraft available this game is for you...Its been a while since I played a modern flight sim with such depth and even then only one flyable This game is superb, admittedly theres a few bugs here and there but it is playable out of the box, whether you want to fly around and practice landing or takeoffs, shooting air/ground targets, or maybe get into the campaigns and fly one of the 8 aircraft available this game is for you...Its been a while since I played a modern flight sim with such depth and even then only one flyable aircraft to play in. This is one of those games you hope will have lots of expansions because its visually superb to play and watch. A few people moan about the specs and the graphics detail adjustments being ineffective but with a patch it should hopefully suit lower end PCs better. I even went out and brought a new Joystick (Saitek X45) and graphics card (Radeon 9800XT) because this game is an investment in terms of longevity and playability, and I want it to last as long as possible and look and play as well as possible. Its one of those games that deserves all the flight sim hardware you can get your hands on to make the experience as real and mind blowing as possible. Whether you buy this game now or in a few months I assure you it will be a worthy purchase...… Expand
  69. DolAmite
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    Best flight sim today Falcon Was dood in its day but nothing can touch the playability for all and multiplayer ease,sure it has bugs and is system hungry but what new game is not.
  70. JohnA.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    In terms of graphics and immersion...this sim is just off the scale. and complexity? --don't get me started. I get more of a rush from one afternoon flying LOMAC than I ever got flying that "other" sim.
  71. -325th-SixGun
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    Liking the game alot! It's a huge amont of fun especially when flying w/ all my friends online. It is a system hog, but I'm having VERY few issues w/ the game right now. It's only gonna get better. You better get a HOTAS!
  72. L.M.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    Bugs aside, best flight sim to date.
  73. LuisL.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    This game was obviously a huge undertaking for the developers, but I feel strongly that they came up to the task. Out of the box, this game runs exceptionally well, considering all that there is to it: combining complex graphics with flight modeling for all types of aircraft is no easy task, and patyches will certainly be needed to pull together all the elements, but when comparing to This game was obviously a huge undertaking for the developers, but I feel strongly that they came up to the task. Out of the box, this game runs exceptionally well, considering all that there is to it: combining complex graphics with flight modeling for all types of aircraft is no easy task, and patyches will certainly be needed to pull together all the elements, but when comparing to some other sims out of the box, this LO-MAC really smokes. One the bugs are squashed, this will be remembered as the best flight sim in a long, long time.… Expand
  74. DaveCarpenter
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Great sim I'm running it on a mid level machine and it works very well for me. I've had to back off on the graphics settings somewhat to get a reasonable frame rate but the game still looks great and runs well. Documentation is a weak point but the interface is pretty friendly.
  75. Wakner
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Has the foundations for a great game ... but still a way to go in terms of bugs and immersiveness.
  76. Aries
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Great gameplay... i mean real gameplay, not seen from the times of Gunship 2000 on the Amiga... Hardware requirements way too high...
  77. FULCRUMwhateva
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    The most complete, immersive, beautiful, fun, complex, modern combat sim ever made. OUTSTANDING!
  78. JuergenD.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    This simulator will be the reference for some years to come. Flightphysics and graphics are at totally new level.
  79. KentB.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    One word....AWSOME!
  80. KarlSchmidt
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    THE NEW SIM-STANDARD! Fantastic graphics, real war- simulation, superb flight-feeling, powerfull editor, genius atmosphere. But be aware of the hardware requirements.
  81. RobertB.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    All I can say to sum up this game is that it has turned me into a flight sim addict! I am fairly new to flight sims having only really used MS FSim5 a few years ago and only then using a basic 5 quid joystick. But since playing this game, I have not been able to put it down! I've even forked out for a Saitek X45... I couldn't help it, this title draws you in and the sunlit All I can say to sum up this game is that it has turned me into a flight sim addict! I am fairly new to flight sims having only really used MS FSim5 a few years ago and only then using a basic 5 quid joystick. But since playing this game, I have not been able to put it down! I've even forked out for a Saitek X45... I couldn't help it, this title draws you in and the sunlit clouds, fog-covered hills, planes and aircraft carriers are fantastic! Before you decide against buying this game because of the negative feedback, consider that there is a very active community for LO-MAC ensuring there will be a multitude of patches, enhancements and fixes released to perfect this wonderful game. … Expand
  82. TommyF.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Good.. but..terrain should be better i think...they're not so..."photograpic"as i would like them to be. yeah...a manual...it should be in the confection.
  83. JuanL.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Awesome.
  84. CliffT.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Amazing experience of flight, and it has all the bells, whistles and toys. An outstanding simulator. Yes, it has bugs which prevents it getting a 10, but it still can't be beat. And it runs on a wide variety of hardware as long as you dont extract the urine over how much detail you expect.
  85. AndrewL.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    Best modern flight sim ever made to date.
  86. ChrisJ.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Great game for fans of military flight simulators. It models the complex systems of 8 aircraft but simplifies the controls enough that you aren't forced into a Falcon4 like click fest. Amazing graphics, don't listen to the FPS detractors. Play the game on medium settings, it still looks great and runs fine. This isn't Quake3 don't expect 300 FPS. My only complaint is Great game for fans of military flight simulators. It models the complex systems of 8 aircraft but simplifies the controls enough that you aren't forced into a Falcon4 like click fest. Amazing graphics, don't listen to the FPS detractors. Play the game on medium settings, it still looks great and runs fine. This isn't Quake3 don't expect 300 FPS. My only complaint is the skimpy documentation. I miss the big manuals of the past but I understand cost constraints. However, the PDF manual is still pretty bad. Still a highly recommended game, you wont think of anything else for months.… Expand
  87. DanE.
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    A+++++++
  88. RickardS.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    It could be so much more than it is... Still a really good sim though.
  89. Savo4c
    Dec 17, 2003
    10
    beautifull and enjoying a lot that revolutionary sim!
  90. AnonymousMC
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    This game is a bundle of joy to play and a truly amazing simulator both graphically and technically. What you get is a very detailed simulator of not one but 8 different aircraft from both NATO and ex-USSR forces, with a very high level of realism combined with a high entertainment value.
    Graphics: 10
    Even at medium settings, this game easily matches the image quality and detail    This game is a bundle of joy to play and a truly amazing simulator both graphically and technically. What you get is a very detailed simulator of not one but 8 different aircraft from both NATO and ex-USSR forces, with a very high level of realism combined with a high entertainment value.
    Graphics: 10

    Even at medium settings, this game easily matches the image quality and detail level of IL2:FB, the current benchmark for flight simulator graphics. Set to max this game looks nothing less than amazing, but with a definite performance impact. Like the Janes series from EA, this game was written with an intention of a LONG lifecycle and so the graphics engine was written to use the added performace of current and upcoming high-end products as well as what is common in the market today. Unless you own a radeon 9800PRO or GeForce 5900FX, setting detail to max is madness and completely wasted as your hardware was not designed to handle this amount of load. As I said the game equals or surpasses IL2:FB even on medium settings so do not let the previous sentence in any way deter you from buying this game if you do not own todays state of the art graphics processor - my own config is decidedly midrange by todays standards and I am getting 30 fps average dropping to ~15 only for short times and when things get very crowded.
    That being said, it the game could have been even more future-proof had Eagle Dynamics implemented DirectX 9.0 shader support as well - this would have added even more eye-candy in the future when those products become more prevalent.
    Sound: 8

    Very high quality sound, and to a non-pilot like myself everything sounds pretty much right. You may prefer to turn up the cocpit volume a bit, to make it easier to hear your engines, gear and flap noises etc - the soundlevel you get at default setting is realistic (a fighter pilot is cocooned inside a bulletproof class canopy with a helmet and headset) but personally I feel that the exaggerated noiselevel improves the feeling of immersion.

    A minor detractor is the rather sparse ambient voice comms from other aircraft - compared to Jane's FA 18, this is a bit lacking, and I do feel that those wannabe fighter jocks out there would have appreciated a more 'realistic' amount of voice comms in what is after all a combat environment, but I guess the developers chose to 'declutter' the voice comms and focus on the information relevant to the game player. Fair enough and a minor point.

    Gameplay: 10

    This is a tall order but I really mean it: this game is so much fun to play and has such an amazing replay value that it deserves the top rating for gameplay.
    Buyer please note: Most of the bad ratings given on this website have one thing in common: people having problems with their local OS installation and jumping to the conclusion that the game does not work at all on either Windows ME, XP, 98 etc. While there are issues that need resolving, these problems are NOT indicative of the general quality of the product. I personally run the game on WinXP on an AMD XP2400+ and GeForce 4 4600Ti with 1024MB ram, and it hasn't even crashed on me once.     … Expand
  91. KenH.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Best jet sim in 5 years! Needs some fine tuning but is very deep and offers tons of replayability. I think about playing whenever I'm at work and thats a good sign.
  92. SmokinBob
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    At first, there were some teething pains for me as system configuration is an absolute must with a sim of the complexity and fidelity, but as the days passed, LO:MAC has turned into a nice little gem, and I am enjoying it very much. Be aware of the steep system requirements, and I know it can get frustrating, but there is help out there and I have not run into any showstoppers yet. Aside At first, there were some teething pains for me as system configuration is an absolute must with a sim of the complexity and fidelity, but as the days passed, LO:MAC has turned into a nice little gem, and I am enjoying it very much. Be aware of the steep system requirements, and I know it can get frustrating, but there is help out there and I have not run into any showstoppers yet. Aside from the poor documentation included in the box and on the CD, LO:MAC is a nice sight in what I hope will someday no longer be a niche market. The sim is a worthy successor to the Flanker Lineage, all spruced up for the 21st Century :) And who cannot resist having fun with Depleted Uranium??? The A-10 is an absolute joy to fly, and a conversation with an Air Force type told me the cockpit layout, gauges, etc. were pretty darn close to the real dea. Nice :) Although the lack of a dynamic campaign was a dissappointment, the highly detailed mission editor should help to fill in that gap. If you like flight sims, you must own LO:MAC!! Smokin Bob… Expand
  93. JohnH.
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    A diamond in the rough, but packed with potential and definitely one to watch.
  94. ErinM.
    Dec 18, 2003
    9
    Were it not for a few bugs it would be a 10 for sure. Definitely has the potential for a "15" after patching.
  95. CharlieW.
    Dec 18, 2003
    9
    Best jet sim available.
  96. DaveS.
    Dec 18, 2003
    10
    Great stuff!!!
  97. GavinR.
    Dec 18, 2003
    10
    Fantastic game - runs great on AMD64.
  98. MathieuC.
    Dec 18, 2003
    9
    Awesome graphics, impressive flight model, great job on avionics.
  99. GaryW.
    Dec 18, 2003
    10
    If you have not ever flown a real Fighter jet or have disired so your whole life! Lock on is as close as you will ever get. You will spend many palm sweaty hours just getting carrier landings or inflight refuleing mastered. Let alone dodging enemy missles! Beware this is a serious Jet Sim. Arcade Players will have trouble getting used to this sim. Settings can be set to tone down the If you have not ever flown a real Fighter jet or have disired so your whole life! Lock on is as close as you will ever get. You will spend many palm sweaty hours just getting carrier landings or inflight refuleing mastered. Let alone dodging enemy missles! Beware this is a serious Jet Sim. Arcade Players will have trouble getting used to this sim. Settings can be set to tone down the realism, but even though in the right perpective are not for the average arcade player!… Expand
  100. MarcoU.
    Dec 18, 2003
    10
    The best combat flight simulator around, no joke.
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Awards & Rankings

66
#66 Best PC Game of 2005
2
#2 Most Discussed PC Game of 2005
66
#66 Most Shared PC Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. PC Format
    88
    Our favourite is the A-10 Warthog – cruising at 50 feet, on the prowl for enemy tanks, it’s one of the most exhilarating missions available in any recent simulator.
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  2. Computer Gaming World
    70
    Detailed terrain, buildings, water, and effects lend an unprecedented feeling of speed to low-level flight. [March 2004, p.82]
  3. Gamer's Pulse
    70
    It has great graphics, fairly simple controls, great scenery, a decent choice of planes, and a great editor. Although the sounds easily get on your nerves, it will be the load times and need for a computer upgrade that will have you pulling your hair out.
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