While most massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) are based on fantasy worlds, there is a growing trend for a new kind of game that merges the real world with the virtual. Rather than taking on the person of a mythical character who goes on quests, players of this new breed of game compete against one another in real sports, based in the real world. At first glance, these games resemble racing simulations, but with unparalleled realism and the ability to race against a large number of people, including professionals they represent a cut above the rest. iRacing is an internet-based auto racing simulation system in which drivers can race against dozens of other online participants on race tracks modelled on the real thing. But the makers of iRacing are keen to stress that it's more than just a game. iRacing uses laser-scanning technology to accurately replicate real racetracks, while vehicle-handling dynamics are reproduced using a physics engine and tire model so that each car feels different to drive.
Sky Challenge takes this link to reality a step further, allowing players to race against real jets. High-performance aircraft race through a virtual computer-generated obstacle course in the sky. The course is stored in onboard computers and the pilots flying the planes see the series of animated objects through which they must fly on a small screen display. The course is also dynamic. It can adjust to punish or reward competitors for penalties and bonuses, so that if a pilot hits a virtual object, the course for that pilot gets longer. While iRacing opened to the public this summer, Sky Challenge is yet to become available to internet participants. A test event is due to be held next week on October 2nd 2008 over the beaches of Barcelona. In iRacing, drivers are grouped according to skill level so that races are evenly matched and in Sky Challenge, internet participants start by practising alone, then once they've learnt the course they race against other online players, finally earning the chance to take on the real pilots in a real-time race.More information:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7633110.stm