This video explores the notorious flyby feature in GTA San Andreas, explaining why planes often crash unexpectedly during gameplay. Through a detailed analysis of game mechanics and design challenges, it reveals how the AI and spawning algorithms lead to these chaotic incidents, transforming them into a beloved 'boogeyman' of the game.
The video starts with a humorous take on the unexpected plane crashes in GTA San Andreas, considering both player's joy in avoiding them and the frustration they cause.
Players have coined the term 'ghost planes' for the aircraft that seem to crash for no apparent reason. The video highlights how this phenomenon has sparked myths and debates about whether plane crashes are intentional.
Insights from Rockstar developers reveal that the chaotic nature of plane spawns and crashes was incorporated intentionally for a unique gaming experience, despite acknowledging the features were buggy.
The video explains the mechanics behind the flyby feature, detailing how planes are spawned based on player location, and the specific checks that determine their flight path.
Key flaws in the AI's collision detection system are discussed, explaining how these oversights frequently lead to crashes as planes ignore their wingspan.
The impact of in-game weather conditions and the speed of different plane models on crash rates is analyzed, with slower planes generally having better survival rates.
The clunkiness and limitations of the AI controlling the planes are criticized, particularly how it struggles with real-time obstacle navigation, contributing to unpredictable crashes.
The developers faced hardware constraints and thus made certain design choices, including limiting collision checks and spawning locations, which significantly contributed to the crash issues.
Player experiences, including unexpected crashes affecting missions and challenges, emphasize the memorable chaos planes add to the gameplay, reinforcing their status as the game's unusual feature.
The video concludes by reflecting on how these plane crashes have become an iconic, albeit chaotic, part of the GTA San Andreas experience, fostering both frustration and fondness among players.
