Virtual Sailor, created by Ilan Papini and published by Quality Simulations and Hangsim, is a shareware program which allows users to operate a wide variety of vessels (sail & powered) in world-wide locations. Both the graphics and boat dynamics have been designed to be as realistic as possible, and the software also features multi-player capabilities. Users can create add-ons including boats, sceneries and marine animals to share with other players.[1]
Gameplay
Screenshot of command bridge of a cruise ship
Players may control a variety of sail and motor powered vessels above and below the sea, interacting with other vessels, changing weather conditions, marine life and dynamic wave movements. Racing against either AI or online competitors is possible, as is exploring, recreating voyages or naval combat.[2] It is also possible to create and edit both vessel types and marine scenery.[1] Control panels feature compass bearing, wind speed and direction, speed, rpm, fuel level, winch settings, sail settings, radar and GPS are also included.[3] Unusual for a vehicle simulator, users of Virtual Sailor can often roam the interiors of their ships. Weather and sea conditions are adjustable, enabling different levels of play. Vessels may be controlled by keyboard, mouse or customisable game controllers.[4]
Virtual Sailor was first released in 1999 and since then has seen 13 major release versions, with many minor updates released each year. Version 7.5.1 was released on July 25, 2017.[6]
In the nine-year period between versions 7.0 and 7.5, developers turned to a new program called "Vehicle Simulator". Vehicle Simulator, first released on March 27, 2009 expands on Virtual Sailor by allowing for the simulation of automobiles and aircraft as well in addition to watercraft, while remaining backwards compatible with many of the add-ons created for Virtual Sailor.
Critical reception
GameSpot said of the game "Virtual Sailor simulates the entire marine environment and makes a complete sailing experience, it's multiplayer capability for online sailing and racing creates an extremely immersive marine experience."[7]
