See how Black Square’s tablet interface for the Dukes works in Microsoft Flight Simulator
The Black Square Piston and Turbine Dukes are just around the corner, and with them, the promise of two highly realistic, detailed, and immersive twin-engine AG aircraft simulations for Microsoft Flight Simulator. Leading up to the release, Black Square and publishing partner Just Flight have started to unveil the features of these two aircraft, starting with the tablet interface that will allow simmers to customize the aircraft and get extensive information about how everything is working under the hood.
It’s perfectly clear by now that Black Square is among the very best when it comes to making planes for Microsoft Flight Simulator, and the Dukes are bound to be the best representation of this yet. The developer is going one step further from previous releases by incorporating a remarkably insightful tablet, whose inspiration is reminiscent of other impressive efforts in the business, like A2A’s Comanche, to enhance the simulation experience with unprecedented realism and functionality.
Positioned discreetly between the pilot seat and the cabin wall, the tablet interface in the upcoming Dukes is nothing short of amazing. Accessible with a simple click, the tablet can be conveniently moved around the cockpit, ensuring it remains within easy reach, regardless of the controls being manipulated.
The tablet interface is divided into several pages, each offering unique functionalities. The first page presents persistent options, including a selection of avionics configurations. Pilots can choose from 12 avionics combinations, featuring both vintage and modern GPS systems, such as the KLN90B and the GTN 750s from both PMS50 and TDS.
Another expected feature in the tablet is the optional payload screen, which complements the native payload planner of the simulator. It provides detailed information on the aircraft’s payload, fuel quantity, and functional exterior elements like wheel chocks and the new propane engine heater. A graphical depiction of the aircraft’s center of gravity aids pilots in maintaining balance within safe limits.
But the real magic happens on the subsequent screens. The engine visualizer page offers a dynamic view of the aircraft’s engine components in action, very much like A2A’s implementation in the Comanche, but here with two engines. This visual aid not only enriches the visual experience but also serves as an educational tool, revealing the intricate workings of the engines.
The live schematic page is also very impressive and particularly useful for diagnosing electrical failures, displaying the status of various systems and buses within the aircraft. Black Square claims this is a first for Microsoft Flight Simulator and will allow pilots to identify and address issues with the aircraft.
Temperature and pressurization systems are also meticulously detailed, with every component subject to failure, challenging pilots to troubleshoot and manage equipment failures effectively.
The new Black Square tablet will also include a failures page, redesigned from previous models where it was displayed on the weather radar. It offers a comprehensive list of potential failures, allowing pilots to adjust the global failure rate or trigger specific failures on demand.
This tablet promises to be a really useful tool and goes on to show Black Square’s attention to detail and increased ambitions as an aircraft developer for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The Dukes are promising a lot indeed, and with just a few weeks until the release, at most, we will soon find out if they live up to the expectations.
In the meantime, watch the video above to learn more about the new tablet interface from Black Square, and stay on the lookout for new videos in the coming days as Black Square gears up for one of the most exciting aircraft releases this year for MSFS!
