COMPUTER GAMES AND SCIENTIFIC VISUALIZATION.

The article focuses on computer games and scientific visualization. In the light of recent advances in game hardware, software, image rendering and virtual environments, it really is not too difficult to appreciate the promise of these scenarios. For example, the Institute for Creative Technologies, a program begun in 1999 by the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Army Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation Command, to tap resources and talents of the entertainment and game development industries, jointly operated with the University of Southern California, is developing combat video games to enhance the strategic, combat and decision-making skills of next-generation military field commanders. One potentially commercial game result called C-Force could be released as soon as next year on popular consoles, including the Xbox and PlayStation 2, allowing armchair generals to test their instincts and judgment as squad leaders under challenging true-to-life situations in the field and under fire.