Well, I've done it, again. Almost every year at this time I teach the Aviation Merit Badge for our Boy Scout Troop Merit Badge Day. Every scout in our District who's intersted in getting this merit badge eagerly anticipates my class, because word has gotten out over the years that I use Aces High a one of the teaching aids. After about 1 - 1 1/2 hrs of lecture they get about that much time (collectively) playing AH (under strict supervision, of course). Invariably the first question asked when th electure part is over is "Can we bomb stuff?" To which I reply "No, there'll be no bombing or killing or shooting down planes, today." The groans quickly dissipate, though, once they hear the roar of Pony's Merlin/Packard V-12 roar to life (I have a very good speaker system, turned waaaayyy up).
Once I get the plane airborne I turn it over to the 1st kid in line, whereupon I talk him through some simple manuvers, progressing eventually to stalls and spins. Just enough for them to get a better understanding of the dynamics of flight, and how the control surfaces work. I love teaching this class, and always look forward to it. Then, with an evil grin, I give them the web address to HTC and tell them this game is FREE, and they should ask their moms and dads to let them d/l it. And that for a modest fee of $14.99/ month + tax the can play online, or fly free online in the H2H arenas.
I expect to see an influx of 10-12 wise-ass preteens to make their presence known on the virtual skies very soon now.
