Tactical Fleet Simulator (TFS) is a total overhaul with the aim of transforming Homeworld2 into a tactics-oriented strategy game. Initial versions aimed for a more immersive tactical "simulator" orientation, the current version provides a more refined and consistent RTS experience.
Modernized FF-25C Interceptor (v2.9)
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Description
This is an updated HOD for the Hiigaran FF-25C Interceptor featuring retractable wings and a retractable missile launcher pod. The wings and launcher deploy when the Interceptor engages enemy ships, and retract when the Interceptor is idle.
i like it, gives it the airplane feel
Looking amazing Battlecry, can't wait to play it
Why in the world would u use retractable wings in the space? O_o though for missile launcher it is ok, to keep em safe from small caliber weapons, but wings? O_O
Why would the interceptor require a lifting body with small wings in the first place...? Unless it was also intended for atmospheric flight... but I think a more plausible explanation is that the developers thought it would give the ship more character (realistic looking space fighters would look nothing like the Hiigaran Interceptor in the first place).
So the addition of retractable fins is keeping in the tradition of Homeworld ship design philosophy based on favoring aesthetics over practicality.
Initially I was going to add two missile launchers to each fin, which would retract when in combat, but decided against that for the sake of simplicity.
I always told myself the "wings" on various craft actually housed sensors equipment that needed minimal interference to function properly. Much like the equipment on modern navy warship conning towers.
Of course, as you said, the real reason is ship aesthetics. There'll always be somebody that disagrees with what you think fits within Homeworld aesthetics. Myself, for example.
More importantly, unless TFS has fewer and smaller strikecraft squadrons than default HW2, all those animations are probably going to bog down people's computers. I argue the visual effect of animated ...stuff... on small, rarely examined ships is not worth the lower framerate. If you must add wings and missile pods, fine, but the animations are overkill.