reece146 Posted October 31, 2021 Posted October 31, 2021 (edited) It takes a long time to develop a module. During that time there is no revenue. The external model is typically one of the first things developed as far as I can tell. Once these external models are being shown publicly and are of a basic "20 footer" quality they should be made available for purchase as an AI asset as part of the early access program at a reduced rate. A basic internal model would be pushed to production to these buyers when ready. There should be an option to buy the full module at the EA differential price once the detailed, flyable model is complete enough for EA. What this provides: - revenue earlier in module development. - access to decent AI models for mission creation while not having to fawk around with dubiously maintained user mods that come and go and break from release to release. - early review and vetting of the 3d models by a larger group. - Is the AI dynamics modifiable from module to module? Early review of AI model by a larger group. - Early experience with support issues earlier in the module lifecycle. Potential issues: - Early support of these models means module maker needs to be able to provide that support. - May cut into pure dev time or contracted resources for a small, indy shop. - Optics regarding potential bait-n-switch complaints if a module gets redesigned/repurposed later in the design cycle. - Difficult to price... 25% of final module cost? Tha 3D model is not 25% of the cost to develop a module - expect it is much less - but need to balance the value of this propsed activity to all parties. I don't know how practical this is but would partake in something like this. I would even consider buying some assets that there is no intention of turning into a full module even. For example, if the long rumoured Battle of Britain plane set ever happens, I would consider buyng a third party's AI only Stuka, especially if packaged with a few variants, AI tweaks for deployment methods accessible in the mission editor, perhaps ground assets that are Stuka specific. The module developer retains the right to turn an AI module into a full module in the future. I guess they AI only model concept already exists... Likewise, Beaufighter, Catalina, and others that might not be first picks for full module creation. This model could be used to provide modern assets as well of course. Sunday morning coffee thoughts... Edited October 31, 2021 by reece146
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