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. Mike
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    The scope of the project and the depth of the game play makes it a remarkable combat flight sim. The game is playable out of the box, but not to the full potential. Depending on your specific hardware (not your horsepower but who makes it) you may or may not be able to play the game until it is patched. If you like flight serious sims and have more patients than the average person I would The scope of the project and the depth of the game play makes it a remarkable combat flight sim. The game is playable out of the box, but not to the full potential. Depending on your specific hardware (not your horsepower but who makes it) you may or may not be able to play the game until it is patched. If you like flight serious sims and have more patients than the average person I would get LOMAC. If you don't on either of the two conditions then wait and get it a few patches down the line. It's a rewarding game, but not easy to pick up unless you are determined to learn how to fly.… Expand
  2. Dutch
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    The only thing that is stopping me having a 10 is the simple fact that I still own a GeForce3 Ti500.
  3. LarsA
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Best modern flight sim to date. I've played them all...started playing sims in 84'.
  4. Mark
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Very good, a few problems but the dev team is patching it as we speak. There's nothing like it around.
  5. MICHAELS.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Considering everything in the past, this one is the best so far. yes there are bugs, but it is a very complex game. easily fill up half a day of nothing but fun.
  6. KevinB.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Great game with a lot of replay value. There are definately some bugs they need to work out but I know its being worked on.
  7. JeffC.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    Great potential.. Going ot be the standard which others are measured by in the really near future. A must have for the aviation simmer!
  8. SteveG.
    Dec 17, 2003
    9
    A serious and ambitious flight/combat sim that meets almost all of my expectations. Problems - sure. System req. are high, but so were Falcon 4's and the bugs that do exist will surely be corrected with a patch or two. This is probably the last hurrah for the serious flight sim enthusiast for a long time and I can think of no better way to enjoy the coming sim drought than with LOMAC.
  9. RichardS.
    Dec 18, 2003
    9
    I have given this game a 9/10 only because of a couple of bugs - which I hasten to add are been sorted out! Other than that I have to say that the graphics and game play that I have experienced are excellent, bordering on the phenomenal...
  10. GeeMan
    Dec 18, 2003
    9
    Has a few bugs but with a little tweaking it will be perfect! I love it!
  11. MakahliaR.
    Dec 21, 2003
    9
    Very nice simulation. It has several problems but there is a patch that should be available soon. Despite the few minor problems I have encountered, this is one of the best jet sims I have ever played. It is detailed, complex, and very fun to play. I recommend it highly.
  12. Hardcard
    Dec 28, 2012
    9
    This review is directed to all those who are looking for a great and fairly realistic modern air combat SIMULATOR (I wrote it using capital letters because this isn't some simplistic arcade flight game) .
    You'll need a decent rig if you want to play this game in acceptable conditions (to avoid lag and low FPS), as this game works with a demanding graphics engine. With that said, there it    This review is directed to all those who are looking for a great and fairly realistic modern air combat SIMULATOR (I wrote it using capital letters because this isn't some simplistic arcade flight game) .
    You'll need a decent rig if you want to play this game in acceptable conditions (to avoid lag and low FPS), as this game works with a demanding graphics engine. With that said, there it goes:
    Do you want to fly some of the most magnificent supersonic war birds in the world? Do you want to establish your supremacy in lethal air-to-air and air-to-ground combat?
    Do you want to master the radar/infrared/ECM/Weapons systems of these warbirds?
    Do you want to do all this while enjoying one of the best graphics engine in all the PC air simulation world? If the answer to all these questions is affirmative, then here is you shopping list: 1-Lock On:Modern Air Combat
    2-Flaming Cliffs 2 expansion, which is COMPULSORY (Flaming Cliffs 3 is about to be released, by the way)
    3-A decent joystick
    4-Search the internet for free downloadable plane 3D models for Flaming Cliffs 2 (such as Gys F-15 model, 3GO Su-27 model or SimMod A-10 model...they infinitely surpass the stock 3d models from the game)
    5- Pick up pen and paper, take notes of the procedures described in the instructional videos for each plane (you can download these videos from the game's website). 6-Configure your joystick and keyboard bindings at your will. Now you are ready to fly the most complete, realistic and nice looking modern air combat simulator that currently exists in the gaming market. You'll need many hours of flight practice and systems familiarization in order to become a decent combat pilot, but if you like combat jets you'll enjoy every minute of it.    … Expand
  13. JakeyZ.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Out of the box I believe this game is an 8 easily. The graphics are amazing.. there's no question of this. It's hard on your system though, so be prepared to tune things down. Even so, on the lowest it still looks good. With a patch coming out soon to fix the minor bugs, this will be at least a 9/10!
  14. Extreeem
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    The game is outstanding I just wish that the current systems were able to run the game at it's full potential. Since multiplayer is my biggest interest I can't comment on campaigns but for MP is has most all the features I've wanted in an air combat sim. Although the game is capable of an almost arcade like setting those who play in that mode are not the ones who will The game is outstanding I just wish that the current systems were able to run the game at it's full potential. Since multiplayer is my biggest interest I can't comment on campaigns but for MP is has most all the features I've wanted in an air combat sim. Although the game is capable of an almost arcade like setting those who play in that mode are not the ones who will really appreciate the game .... now those how enjoy the emersion and learning curves, this game is for you.… Expand
  15. HåkanJ.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Even though the game has some bugs in it it's the best flight sim availiable together with FB. It got great potential for addons and further development. Good graphics and FM/DM. But i wont lie, it takes a lot of your PC!!!
  16. RandyN.
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    This is the best combat flight sim to date. Falcon 4 Gold is around the corner and will surely give it a challenge. It is nice to see our favorite genre of game get a boost this year. :P
  17. Baranth
    Sep 2, 2006
    8
    Having been a Lock On player for quite some time I feel I can cast this accuratly... my only real gripe is with the developers.... Black Shark looks good.. and anyone with the Flaming Cliffs LOMAC is probably quite happy with it... all and all it is a good game but "I Feel" the developers are missing the boat with the whole adding helo's thing and should first go for getting all the Having been a Lock On player for quite some time I feel I can cast this accuratly... my only real gripe is with the developers.... Black Shark looks good.. and anyone with the Flaming Cliffs LOMAC is probably quite happy with it... all and all it is a good game but "I Feel" the developers are missing the boat with the whole adding helo's thing and should first go for getting all the planes flyable... and making accurate Flight Model for all the aircraft in the game... not just the magic 6... then add the helos in after... granted... the mods out there to make them all flyable... but these mods don't use accurate flight models or cockpits... BUT it IS comparable to Falcon 4... oh... and developing different theatres would be nice as well... but all and all.... good game none the less.… Expand
  18. ChrisCatchlove
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great game, patch is coming soon, best flight sim I have flown for awhile. Love it.
  19. AnonymousMC
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This is not for the weekend arcade gamer. LOMAC makes a great attempt to keep it as real as a flight sim game can. From the modeling to flight charecteristics all the way to the graphics, hands down this is the best looking modern combat sim around. Worth every penny!
  20. PILOTA-1
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I have'nt had 99% of the problems people list below, runs great on my winXP system, I dont have a completely top of the line PC but with settings on mostly medium, runs great and considering the graphics and details its the closest thing you'll get to flying a combat jet (and not just 1 but several!) A patch ot two should fix the problems people are having and theres NO pc game I have'nt had 99% of the problems people list below, runs great on my winXP system, I dont have a completely top of the line PC but with settings on mostly medium, runs great and considering the graphics and details its the closest thing you'll get to flying a combat jet (and not just 1 but several!) A patch ot two should fix the problems people are having and theres NO pc game that has'nt needed a patch soon after release. Eagle Dynamics should be congratulated for breathing life into an all but dead genre..what else is out there..Jetfighter 5 or that hack which is Falcon5.… Expand
  21. Silverfox388thVFW
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Superb flight characteristics, The graphics effects will knock your socks off. At first glance you will notice the beautifull flight models and enviormental and lighting effects(unsurpassed) but you will need to spend a lot more time in the game to really appreiciate its genius. One note however it dont get frusttrated with getting the grphics set correctly. With some patience and Superb flight characteristics, The graphics effects will knock your socks off. At first glance you will notice the beautifull flight models and enviormental and lighting effects(unsurpassed) but you will need to spend a lot more time in the game to really appreiciate its genius. One note however it dont get frusttrated with getting the grphics set correctly. With some patience and research you can fine tune the sim to run on your system provided it is not near or below recommended. Definetly a must have! … Expand
  22. FerryW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    The game has a lot of potential, looks fantastic and has a very high replay value. This combined with the power of hyperlobby and soon come 3rd party software and the patch which should fix the main issues... It holds a great future.
  23. ChuckC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I give the game an 8. The graphics are stunning especially down low. The cites are very well modeled. People have had troubles running it in Win98/Me but if your a gamer you most likely aren't using those old versions of Windows anyway. I use Windows 2000 and it works fine. There are some bugs but that is to be expected. None of the bugs I've had are game stopping. Great I give the game an 8. The graphics are stunning especially down low. The cites are very well modeled. People have had troubles running it in Win98/Me but if your a gamer you most likely aren't using those old versions of Windows anyway. I use Windows 2000 and it works fine. There are some bugs but that is to be expected. None of the bugs I've had are game stopping. Great visuals, realistic flight model, good enemy pilot AI. It's a great game. System I use to play Lock On AthlonXP 2600, 1GB of RAM, Geforce 4Ti 4600 Windows 2000… Expand
  24. ElyP.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    A very good game for you modern day simulator freaks. It will take some tweaking to get to run at full effeciency though, and it will take a pretty powerful system. Nevertheless, a very good game that I'd recommend if you've waited for a A-10 simulator for a long time.
  25. EricM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Very good game, too many bug in the relase :(
  26. VaporB.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great game with lots of potencial but a FPS killer.
  27. JohnS.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    If you are an avid flight sim nut then you appreciate the beauty of LockOn. It is great currently but has some few growing pains. One thing to remember is all the best flight sims had growing pains. Be patient, get the patch when it comes out and watch your 6.
  28. MJ
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Needs work, but has the potential to dethrone Falcon 4. Steep Hardware requirements, but third party hotfixes to tweak FPS are out already, a patch to squash some bugs mentioned earlier is on it's way. A must for fans of Migs and SU's.
  29. RCRC
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    An excellent, if not revolutionary game in most counts. The reasons why I don't award it a full 10 are: lack of a good (dynamic) campaign system, which would add immersion to the game; lack of a dynamic weather system; and although I am able to run the game perfectly, it does have bugs that cause some people a lot of problems - in some cases preventing them from playing them. An excellent, if not revolutionary game in most counts. The reasons why I don't award it a full 10 are: lack of a good (dynamic) campaign system, which would add immersion to the game; lack of a dynamic weather system; and although I am able to run the game perfectly, it does have bugs that cause some people a lot of problems - in some cases preventing them from playing them. Overall, the best flight models, scenery, and graphics you have ever see in a flight sim. It's a must see!!!… Expand
  30. BrettF.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This game was meant to push hardware to the limits like so many other flight sims in the past.. F4, F18, etc..etc.. Each are still being played today. If you want a fun smooth arcade game, go back to a XBox. You want to simulate a flight experience in a smooth enviroment (medium setting will do just fine for most people), then this game is for you. 2 bad points. 1. UBISoft's This game was meant to push hardware to the limits like so many other flight sims in the past.. F4, F18, etc..etc.. Each are still being played today. If you want a fun smooth arcade game, go back to a XBox. You want to simulate a flight experience in a smooth enviroment (medium setting will do just fine for most people), then this game is for you. 2 bad points. 1. UBISoft's cheapskate tendencies showed up with a manual that is barely readable. (tho this has been rectified with a higher res version on the website) 2. Some game play bugs that effect most older hardware/OS users. These are being address in the first patch, which is expected before this year's end. Like F15, F18, F4 and others, they were as buggy if not worse in some instances during their intial release. Instant gratification types (XBOX PS2 types) need not apply with this game. I enjoy it immensely and have the time of my life with it.… Expand
  31. JohnM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Il2 with modern jet combat. Requires a superlative video card to make the most of its graphics, some of which can't be run on the fastest of todays PCs, however - the best of it genre.
  32. Tosch
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Best military flightsim i ever played. Has the potential for a 10.
  33. MikeH.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Rushed out the door, but still a worthy and solid "8". Had the patch been out, and some of the bugs worked out radar and otherwise- It would rate much higher. Lock On is a deep sim, and is worth getting and learning on even before the patch is due to be released (soon). Add this one to your Christmas list folks.
  34. PhilipC.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    A very good combat sim! Excellent graphics and very realistic!
  35. ChuckB.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    It doesn't get much better than this in a jet flight sim. It's going through some growing pains, but every decent flight sim does. It's as good or better than Jane's FA18 just because of the wide variety of aircraft that you can chose from. Anyone who is seriously interested in flight sims of current aircraft is missing the boat if they don't get this one.
  36. MarkT.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Although a problem playing from the box after running some simple tweaks and replacing some files you have a very smooth and playable flight sim with great immersion value. Cooperative online play brings you closer to the war raging. You will need to honestly be 'into' flight sims to play this but even for fairly new flight sim player like myself I found it easy to get in to. Although a problem playing from the box after running some simple tweaks and replacing some files you have a very smooth and playable flight sim with great immersion value. Cooperative online play brings you closer to the war raging. You will need to honestly be 'into' flight sims to play this but even for fairly new flight sim player like myself I found it easy to get in to. XP2000+ with Ti4200 (64) and 1Gb Ram works with medium gfx settings very smooth (after the tweaks). Buy It!… Expand
  37. Devothaan
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Not perfect, has some issues but it also has the potential to become by far the best flight sim ever.
  38. Stephane
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    This is a fantastic game. No one could imagine such a game released without any bugs. Any flight sim fan knows that a game is stable 6 months after its official release, when user inputs have been used to correct the game's problems. Anyway, even with those bugs (some are bad I admit), this is a GREAT game and I enjoy it every evening.
  39. CoolSpy
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    This sim has some clear potential to become the top one for the years to come. Sure, it has its issues for now: crashes, choppy framerate, bad TrackIR 2 support. But my friends, sims always suck when they come out, don't they ? Remember Falcon 4 at its beginnings ? Look at how Falcon 4 is like now !? When we get the proper patches, this will become an amazing product. The only BIG This sim has some clear potential to become the top one for the years to come. Sure, it has its issues for now: crashes, choppy framerate, bad TrackIR 2 support. But my friends, sims always suck when they come out, don't they ? Remember Falcon 4 at its beginnings ? Look at how Falcon 4 is like now !? When we get the proper patches, this will become an amazing product. The only BIG COMPLAIN about the game (which explains my rating) is for me the ridiculous manual and missing keycard i found in the box ! Sure there is a PDF, but Jesus, we are talking about a flight sim ! We need a decent manual with the game, even if we have to pay a few more bucks for it ! I still remember the Falcon 4 doc or the Flanker 2.0 one: this is what we needed guys ! Except this, Lock On is a jewel: great graphics, great flight models and radar modes, great HOTAS support ... really you will love it for the years to come ! … Expand
  40. JensF.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    This game is good... it need some tweaks... but is great 2 have 5 planes to fligh...
  41. AdamB.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Fantastic sim, graphics and flight model. Few bugs but they should be ironed out in the upcoming months. It does exactly what it says on the tin.
  42. WaiW.
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    Good sim with bugs.
  43. MarietaJ.
    Dec 19, 2003
    8
    Really good game, but still need some improvement, hope the incoming patches would upgrade the rate....
  44. JohnHarrian
    Feb 16, 2004
    8
    Very beautiful sim. The graphics are truly stunning. I've had some problems with performance but thanks to the reviewer below that mentioned the new 1.01 patch, I am running very smooth now. Thanks. I have only started the campaign for the F-15 but so far it has been lots of fun. It's hard, but really fun. I am glad I ran the training missions before patching to V1.01.Very beautiful sim. The graphics are truly stunning. I've had some problems with performance but thanks to the reviewer below that mentioned the new 1.01 patch, I am running very smooth now. Thanks. I have only started the campaign for the F-15 but so far it has been lots of fun. It's hard, but really fun. I am glad I ran the training missions before patching to V1.01. Great job Ubi Soft! This is a great game.… Expand
  45. Konkussion
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Absolutely stunning sim. Issues that can't be fixed by tweaking settings are: 1. an extremely poor manual. 2. the editors of missions and aircraft are horribly complicated. They look user friendly at first glance, but they are really uncooperative. 3. multiplayer lobby is bizarre at best. But I have been spoiled by Nova- the best or at least easiest multiplayer setup there is.
  46. JohnD.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    This game has good emersion and excellent graphics even at lower settings. Still some bug but seems to be well suported by Ubisoft.
  47. 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.
  48. 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.
  49. 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.
  50. 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.
  51. 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.
  52. 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.
  53. 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.
  54. 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.
  55. 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
  56. 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
  57. 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
  58. 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
  59. [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..
  60. 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?
  61. TR
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    A patch will make it a 10 easy
  62. 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.
  63. SeanW.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great game that needs a few patches to be the greatest survey sim yet.
  64. 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
  65. 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.
  66. 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
  67. 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
  68. 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.
  69. 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 :)
  70. 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.
  71. 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
  72. 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
  73. 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.
  74. Wakner
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Has the foundations for a great game ... but still a way to go in terms of bugs and immersiveness.
  75. 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...
  76. 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
  77. 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.
  78. RickardS.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    It could be so much more than it is... Still a really good sim though.
  79. 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.
  80. 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
  81. JohnH.
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    A diamond in the rough, but packed with potential and definitely one to watch.
  82. JonathanM.
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    This is a high quality game in every way, but the only thing that annoys me is the amount of bugs in the game and the fps issue. Superb game but a patch is needed.
  83. BillJ.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Some minor issues but overall sim is a winner. Definite must buy for hardcore simmers.
  84. KayronM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    The game is extremely great! Though I first thought of rating it as 10/10, I have to degrade it to 8/10 because of the many bugs, both minor & major... I realize this game is very demanding on specifications, but there have been reports from all sorts of users with all sorts of machines (including top top top of the range), that Lock On doesn't run THAT well, and by THAT well I mean The game is extremely great! Though I first thought of rating it as 10/10, I have to degrade it to 8/10 because of the many bugs, both minor & major... I realize this game is very demanding on specifications, but there have been reports from all sorts of users with all sorts of machines (including top top top of the range), that Lock On doesn't run THAT well, and by THAT well I mean that it can get to an unplayable state... For example, I can't play online or on LAN until a patch comes out that fixes the major issues Lock On has with nVidia nForce II motherboard chipsets (FPS loss & synchronization loss in LAN, and EXTREME lag online)... 8/10, for now, 10/10 when a patch or several patches come out to fix what's wrong with it!… Expand
  85. StuntieS.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Superb graphics and loads of atmosphere. If you've never flown a fast jet sim before you can scale down the complexities for a barrel of fun, or for the more advanced you can crank it up a sweat out your own personal hell of archers inbound. Some bugs and a couple of bits to be rounded off so not a 10, but from a developer with a history and reputation for fixing and expanding so the Superb graphics and loads of atmosphere. If you've never flown a fast jet sim before you can scale down the complexities for a barrel of fun, or for the more advanced you can crank it up a sweat out your own personal hell of archers inbound. Some bugs and a couple of bits to be rounded off so not a 10, but from a developer with a history and reputation for fixing and expanding so the 8 is only temporary till they get to work. … Expand
  86. IsaacA.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    great graphcis fly models i love to fly the A10 and Su25. its a good option for all sim fans out there. the only point if that i would like to haev more air to ground ordenances ....
  87. DmitriM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great Game. Graphics are absolutly outstanding. Flight models are to die for. Unfortunalty in order to appreciate this game fully you would need to spend some time learning how to fly which can get pretty complicated. My biggest disappointment is the lack of good story line and good missions to fly. The flight simulator is there but the "game" is missing. I can't wait for dynamic Great Game. Graphics are absolutly outstanding. Flight models are to die for. Unfortunalty in order to appreciate this game fully you would need to spend some time learning how to fly which can get pretty complicated. My biggest disappointment is the lack of good story line and good missions to fly. The flight simulator is there but the "game" is missing. I can't wait for dynamic compaign and will buy any product with LOCKON on it.… Expand
  88. ChrisB.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Great graphics, some bugs and lan/multiplayer inop-buged.
  89. MarkD.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I give it 8.5 out of 10...excellent game, don't judge it after 30 mins of flying..
  90. Daveweber
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Well how to start off ,I've been waiting for this game since Flanker2.5 & IL2 since then much hype, I thought I would never see the light of day on this title , then the demo came out! Wow what a let down for me :( , then the retail box OEM hit EB I purchased it,, "I can't say this enough , THE RETAIL IS SO MUCH BETTER THAN DEMO!! , I love the gameplay, alot faster for me than Well how to start off ,I've been waiting for this game since Flanker2.5 & IL2 since then much hype, I thought I would never see the light of day on this title , then the demo came out! Wow what a let down for me :( , then the retail box OEM hit EB I purchased it,, "I can't say this enough , THE RETAIL IS SO MUCH BETTER THAN DEMO!! , I love the gameplay, alot faster for me than Flanker 2.5 cleaner , but that goes without saying , this is a fresh start, HIGH's Graphics, Flight Model, flight characteristics,Terrain Buildings , ATC, Lows Some FPS issues , but nothing that will stop me from playing , track and save video for later playback no center of my FF2 joystick. Conclusion , great game for me I really don't see why some people can't get good Fps or they have a CTD, I have yet to get one . WTG Eagle Dynamics Eagle Dynamics Intel Socket 478 Pentium 4 Northwood,2.6GHz (400MHz FSB) ABIT BD7 RAID Latest Bios Western Digital 40 Gig 7,200 RPM 2*512 Samsung Pc 2100(1024) GeForce Ti 4600 128DDR (DR 53.03) Hercules Game Theater XP 7.1 (ver 4101,Cpl v1.33 Microsoft Sidewinder Force Feedback 2 DirectX 9.0b … Expand
  91. GlenT.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    I give the game an 8 because its a very good sim, but it does have its bugs. Eagle Dynamics has always been good to patch most of the problems, so I'm looking forward to the improvements in the future. I'd definitely by the game again.
  92. DaveL.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    The best sim to date. This game has everything, but does require top of the line computer to run the game with all the details. The game can be tunned to any system with many options in graphics, sounds, game play.
  93. HaraldS.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    a must for everyone interested in military flightsims - BUT: a real fps-monster! Hope the patch fixes the drastically dropping fps while flying through smoke...
  94. JoshG.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Fun!
  95. AlexisSpitfire
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    Excellent game, graphics, etc... but there are too many bugs, hope the patch'll help
  96. AndrewM.
    Dec 16, 2003
    8
    great potential still need procesing and polishing can be fine-tuned after some hard work impresive in video and complexity after patch will see again.
  97. JoeD.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Remember all that the developers said that "Lock On was written for the next generation of computers" But it plays great and from what I understand is still being developed
  98. AlanA
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Can't fully enjoy all it has to offer yet on my older PIII system but what I've seen so far is awesome. This sim will be around for a long time.
  99. TomM.
    Dec 17, 2003
    8
    Okay, so it has some bugs, but I don't doubt for a moment that they'll be patched soon enough.
  100. CalogeroC.
    Dec 18, 2003
    8
    LOMAC has the potential to be part of the video game/simulation canon. I say "potential" because there are a few bugs to be worked out. Great inital effort though.
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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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