Very interesting project here…. not new, but new to us: based on Google Earth and it’s API’s and following an earlier javascript based development here comes ‘Ships’ an online Ships Simulator from PlanetInAction.com where you can be the helmsman of  a bunch of vessels, from barges to cruise ships… and to stay more inline with our main interest here, you can steer an Airship through the virtual skies of Google Earth, and you know that means EVERYWHERE.
This video shows it all, play the game here and you will find more reading details after the jump (oh.. and MS: Digg it! <g>)
And of course you should not forget to take a look at simMarket’s Shipping Yard for further ocean dreams.
From the PlanetInAction Website: Â “In this ship simulation program you get to be the helmsman of your own fleet of ships. “Ships” will take you past worlds incredible scenery at a leisurely pace. All you need to play ships is a small Google Earth plugin.
The idea to use Google map data for a game came almost 2 years ago. The “Ships” concept was initially written in Scratch Since the release of the Google Earth plugin and it’s versatile programmers interface it became feasible to write a comprehensive application using Google Map data.
“Ships” is a case study / Technology show piece that demonstrates what can be achieved with Google Earth. While map data has a tremendous value for practical purposes, it can also be used as a backdrop for a range of games.
Special thanks go to Frank Taylor. As a blue water skipper and a well informed blogger on issues related to Google Earth he was a valuable source of knowledge and I enjoyed the many hint’s and tips that came my way. Keep an eye on his excellent blog. There, You’ll read the latest news related to Google Earth. Visit GEarthBlog.com here
Of course we are always looking for new projects or contracts that involve simulation or anything related to Google Maps. If you have a need for a map related application be it business or leisure, We may be able to help.
In the mean time we will pursue a range of interesting Google Earth projects with the simple desire to get even better and learn more. “Ships” will become a small module in a much bigger game concept for which we seek investors.
If you wish to talk about your application needs then feel free to contact us”
