Solo Dev with Aviation Background Launches "Radar Identified!" in Early Access
A solo developer with real-world air traffic control and pilot experience has launched "Radar Identified!", an ambitious en-route radar simulator, into Early Access on PC and Mac.
An ambitious new air traffic control simulator, "Radar Identified!", is now available in Early Access, spearheaded by a solo developer with a professional background in aviation. Breaking away from traditional tower simulations, this title aims to deliver a highly realistic en-route radar experience, allowing players to manage complex airspace with an emphasis on authentic procedures.
The developer, drawing on years of experience as both an air traffic controller and pilot, created "Radar Identified!" out of a personal desire for a simulator that didn't exist. The project focuses on the intricate decision-making and precise communication required for "en-route" control—guiding aircraft between airports—rather than ground or tower operations, offering a distinct challenge within the simulation genre.
Currently in Early Access, the game launched in early April with four sectors of German airspace, supporting both PC and Mac. It features over 25,000 real waypoints and nearly 200 manually checked flight routes, underscoring the commitment to realism. The developer notes that translating nuanced ATC phraseology and safety protocols, such as Short Term Conflict Alert (STCA) detection, into game logic proved to be the most demanding aspect of development.
Community feedback has been crucial for "Radar Identified!" so far, aiding in bug findings and suggesting new ideas. Looking ahead, the roadmap is packed with additions: dynamic weather systems, emergency scenarios like squawk 7700 alerts, and even voice control for issuing clearances. Plans also include expanding the operational areas to cover more European sectors and eventually introduce US and Canadian airspace.
The developer shared a key lesson from their solo journey: the importance of shipping a game to gain invaluable player feedback. Embracing the iterative nature of Early Access, they hope the community will continue to engage and help shape "Radar Identified!" into the robust, realistic simulator they envisioned, recognizing that real-world playtesting far outweighs solitary polishing.
