In May of last year, we previewed an ambitious project aimed at bringing one of the Roman Empire’s most iconic landmarks to Microsoft Flight Simulator. Now, Hadrian’s Wall 180AD has officially launched, allowing simmers to explore this monumental structure as it stood nearly 2,000 years ago. Developed by Time Machine Designs, this add-on is the culmination of extensive historical research, technological innovation, and creative collaboration.
This project represents a significant effort to recreate Hadrian’s Wall in its entirety, complete with milecastles, turrets, and forts, all set against a digitally reimagined Roman-era landscape. It’s a fascinating application of Microsoft Flight Simulator’s technology that extends beyond just a playground for virtual flying, adding a historic and educational aspect to the experience!
Hadrian’s Wall was built under Emperor Hadrian in 122 AD, stretching across Northern England from the Solway Firth to the River Tyne. It served not only as a defensive barrier but also as a symbol of Roman authority and a means to regulate trade and movement.
Reconstructing the wall for MSFS 2020 was no small feat. Time Machine Designs worked closely with boomsatsuma Education, an organization specializing in creative technology education, to realize this ambitious vision. The project drew upon excavation reports, historical literature, and expert consultations to ensure an accurate and immersive recreation.
The initial version of Hadrian’s Wall 180AD focuses on the military aspects of the wall, offering simmers a detailed view of Roman engineering and logistical prowess. From the placement of turrets and forts to the alignment of the wall itself, every detail has been carefully considered to reflect its historical context.
Collaboration and expertise
The project’s collaborative nature is a core part of its identity. Students and recent graduates from boomsatsuma played key roles in its development, gaining valuable experience in digital artistry and game design.
Hannah Maggs, a concept artist involved in the project, said: “This project has been an incredible learning experience for me, offering both professional growth and valuable studio experience. I am so genuinely grateful to have been part of such an amazing project—especially one that is a world first.”
Phoebe Gibson, a technical and concept artist, shared: “It’s been an incredible experience working on a project of such scale!”
Historians and archaeologists also provided critical input. Dr. Richard Cole, Lecturer in Digital Classics at the University of Bristol, praised the project as “a remarkable achievement” that captures “the environment, the imposition, and the integrated system and culture of it all.”
Meanwhile, Lee Newton, Senior Archaeologist at North Somerset Council, highlighted how the project offers a unique perspective on the wall: “Visiting the sites, even as an archaeologist, I still think it’s hard to envisage that this was one continuous, coherent structure. This project really brings that back to life.”
What’s included in version 1
The first release of Hadrian’s Wall 180AD focuses on the military infrastructure of the wall. Key features include:
- 73 miles of Roman wall, accurately following the terrain of Northern England.
- 158 turrets, 78 milecastles, and 18 individually modeled legionary forts.
- Over 140 unique building models.
- Three Roman bridges, with corrected river courses.
- Over 5,000 terrain modifications, including the creation of an 11-mile “park” through Newcastle to restore the wall’s original route.
- Two Romano-British villages.
- A detailed User Guide that provides historical context and insights into the project’s design process.
This release sets the stage for future updates, which will include nearly 200 miles of earthworks, night lighting, and additional civilian infrastructure such as the Roman harbor at Arbeia and the town of Coria (modern-day Corbridge). A planned update will also introduce a sailable Roman cargo ship, allowing simmers to explore Arbeia’s harbor from the water.
Available now!
Hadrian’s Wall 180AD is available for purchase through the Time Machine Designs website for £12.99, with a Marketplace release expected soon. For Xbox users, the add-on will be available as soon as the ingestion process is complete.
