Discussion
Mastodon2 said:
On the subject of head tracking, what is recommended? I don't really want to go down the VR route, nor do I want to go down the triple monitor route. My main gaming is and will always be shooters and strategy games that just wouldn't need 3 monitors. Building a full on sim rig would be fun but massive overkill based on my needs.
My PC is a monster and I've got a really nice big 4K monitor, so ideally I'd like to use TrackIR or something to be able to scan around the cockpit and look out of the windows. I'd like to hear what people think is good, or if there is a standout option in this field.
I'm using Tobii, some people seem to have issues with it, but I find it works pretty well and you don't need to wear anything to make it work.My PC is a monster and I've got a really nice big 4K monitor, so ideally I'd like to use TrackIR or something to be able to scan around the cockpit and look out of the windows. I'd like to hear what people think is good, or if there is a standout option in this field.
I would like to join a PH server/Wing.
I’m a casual player that likes to mess about in DCS. I’m proficient at the A-10CII, in a permissive environment
Which actually means I know the systems off by heart but not necessarily the most efficient methods of employment.
I have a lot of other modules that I have played with, but never learned to any degree. It would be fun to join others flying and learning modules at a similar level, particularly in A2G. I seem to lack the mental capacity to fly A2A!
Edit to add some VR opinions.
VR was a game changer in immersion. The caveat being that my lack of neck flexibility means that I lose sight of targets much more often than I would like, compared to a Track IR kind of set up. The neck flexibility is an issue with general flexibility and age, rather than anything else. Good VR performance did come at a significant financial cost though, I treated myself.
I’m a casual player that likes to mess about in DCS. I’m proficient at the A-10CII, in a permissive environment
Which actually means I know the systems off by heart but not necessarily the most efficient methods of employment. I have a lot of other modules that I have played with, but never learned to any degree. It would be fun to join others flying and learning modules at a similar level, particularly in A2G. I seem to lack the mental capacity to fly A2A!
Edit to add some VR opinions.
VR was a game changer in immersion. The caveat being that my lack of neck flexibility means that I lose sight of targets much more often than I would like, compared to a Track IR kind of set up. The neck flexibility is an issue with general flexibility and age, rather than anything else. Good VR performance did come at a significant financial cost though, I treated myself.
Edited by Matt London on Wednesday 29th May 19:10
Matt London said:
VR was a game changer in immersion. The caveat being that my lack of neck flexibility means that I lose sight of targets much more often than I would like, compared to a Track IR kind of set up.
I believe there is a mod which multiplies the X axis input in VR, so you don't need to turn your head as far to check-six. 'Necksafer' or something I think. Could be a bit nausea inducing if you set it too high though I'd imagine.LimaDelta said:
Matt London said:
VR was a game changer in immersion. The caveat being that my lack of neck flexibility means that I lose sight of targets much more often than I would like, compared to a Track IR kind of set up.
I believe there is a mod which multiplies the X axis input in VR, so you don't need to turn your head as far to check-six. 'Necksafer' or something I think. Could be a bit nausea inducing if you set it too high though I'd imagine.Matt London said:
LimaDelta said:
Matt London said:
VR was a game changer in immersion. The caveat being that my lack of neck flexibility means that I lose sight of targets much more often than I would like, compared to a Track IR kind of set up.
I believe there is a mod which multiplies the X axis input in VR, so you don't need to turn your head as far to check-six. 'Necksafer' or something I think. Could be a bit nausea inducing if you set it too high though I'd imagine.LimaDelta said:
Matt London said:
LimaDelta said:
Matt London said:
VR was a game changer in immersion. The caveat being that my lack of neck flexibility means that I lose sight of targets much more often than I would like, compared to a Track IR kind of set up.
I believe there is a mod which multiplies the X axis input in VR, so you don't need to turn your head as far to check-six. 'Necksafer' or something I think. Could be a bit nausea inducing if you set it too high though I'd imagine.OH-58D Kiowa out now for anyone interested.
I like it, but I knew before buying it was a module I was unlikely to dedicate much time to. The Gazelle is my go-to nimble light-attack/recce helo. The KW seems complicated, not as bad as the Apache, but still a bit to learn.
Chinook later this month too, and potentially the Afghan map. After quite a quiet period for releases we've had some huge ones in quick succession.
I like it, but I knew before buying it was a module I was unlikely to dedicate much time to. The Gazelle is my go-to nimble light-attack/recce helo. The KW seems complicated, not as bad as the Apache, but still a bit to learn.
Chinook later this month too, and potentially the Afghan map. After quite a quiet period for releases we've had some huge ones in quick succession.
I’ve bought the Kiowa, had a few hours in it now.
I’m not too impressed with the quality of the graphics tbh, especially compared to the phantom (which is excellent)
But in all other respects it’s good. Systems aren’t too hard to learn, the flight model seems good too. It’s very light on instant action missions though. I think it bridges the gap between the Huey and Apache quite nicely.
I don’t think I’ll be getting the Chinook, I’ve enough modules to last a lifetime and I’m not really sure there will be that much to do with it.
Due to the ongoing razbam/ED saga (if you don’t know, Google it) I requested and recieved a refund for the F15e. In all honesty I never used it much and kinda regretted buying it from the start so I’ll use that refund to pre order the Afghan map.
I’m not too impressed with the quality of the graphics tbh, especially compared to the phantom (which is excellent)
But in all other respects it’s good. Systems aren’t too hard to learn, the flight model seems good too. It’s very light on instant action missions though. I think it bridges the gap between the Huey and Apache quite nicely.
I don’t think I’ll be getting the Chinook, I’ve enough modules to last a lifetime and I’m not really sure there will be that much to do with it.
Due to the ongoing razbam/ED saga (if you don’t know, Google it) I requested and recieved a refund for the F15e. In all honesty I never used it much and kinda regretted buying it from the start so I’ll use that refund to pre order the Afghan map.
Edited by Terry Tibbs on Friday 7th June 13:19
Terry Tibbs said:
I’ve bought the Kiowa, had a few hours in it now.
I’m not too impressed with the quality of the graphics tbh, especially compared to the phantom (which is excellent)
But in all other respects it’s good. Systems aren’t too hard to learn, the flight model seems good too. It’s very light on instant action missions though. I think it bridges the gap between the Huey and Apache quite nicely.
I don’t think I’ll be getting the Chinook, I’ve enough modules to last a lifetime and I’m not really sure there will be that much to do with it.
Due to the ongoing razbam/ED saga (if you don’t know, Google it) I requested and recieved a refund for the F15e. In all honesty I never used it much and kinda regretted buying it from the start so I’ll use that refund to pre order the Afghan map.
Given Polychop are a much smaller outfit than Heatblur I can forgive the lower quality of the visuals. The FM seems good, but I have no experience of the KW/Jetranger IRL.I’m not too impressed with the quality of the graphics tbh, especially compared to the phantom (which is excellent)
But in all other respects it’s good. Systems aren’t too hard to learn, the flight model seems good too. It’s very light on instant action missions though. I think it bridges the gap between the Huey and Apache quite nicely.
I don’t think I’ll be getting the Chinook, I’ve enough modules to last a lifetime and I’m not really sure there will be that much to do with it.
Due to the ongoing razbam/ED saga (if you don’t know, Google it) I requested and recieved a refund for the F15e. In all honesty I never used it much and kinda regretted buying it from the start so I’ll use that refund to pre order the Afghan map.
I'm still holding out hope on the Razbam/ED situation, not so bothered about the Strike Eagle (even though I have two licences on two computers), but really enjoying the Harrier at the moment, so hope they can at least maintain compatibility with newer versions of DCS and that the modules don't just die off like the Hawk.
I have a feeling that the Chinook will be well supported with logistics driven campaigns, and could offer a bit of variety to the usual stuff currently on offer. Moreso if the dynamic campaign engine ever sees light of day.
Is there any particular advantage to buying the DCS stuff through their online e-store or is it fine to use Steam?
I ordered a Virpil HOTAS setup in the end, the throttle and control panel module and the stick base unit were both on backorder, so who knows when the order will turn up, customer support said usually no more than a few weeks but we'll see.
I wouldn't mind picking up a map and a module while the Steam sale is on as there's significant savings to be had, but I know the DCS e-shop gives you a discount on the first thing you buy too. I'll probably start with the Flaming Cliffs 3 pack and learn the Frogfoot (my favourite plane) and then maybe pick up something else like the Viggen or Mirage (not the Razbam one) in the future.
In order to provide some quicker thrills, I also picked up a huge amount of IL-2 content on Steam for the princely sum of sweet FA due to the significant discounts in the summer sale.
I ordered a Virpil HOTAS setup in the end, the throttle and control panel module and the stick base unit were both on backorder, so who knows when the order will turn up, customer support said usually no more than a few weeks but we'll see.
I wouldn't mind picking up a map and a module while the Steam sale is on as there's significant savings to be had, but I know the DCS e-shop gives you a discount on the first thing you buy too. I'll probably start with the Flaming Cliffs 3 pack and learn the Frogfoot (my favourite plane) and then maybe pick up something else like the Viggen or Mirage (not the Razbam one) in the future.
In order to provide some quicker thrills, I also picked up a huge amount of IL-2 content on Steam for the princely sum of sweet FA due to the significant discounts in the summer sale.
Mastodon2 said:
Is there any particular advantage to buying the DCS stuff through their online e-store or is it fine to use Steam?
I ordered a Virpil HOTAS setup in the end, the throttle and control panel module and the stick base unit were both on backorder, so who knows when the order will turn up, customer support said usually no more than a few weeks but we'll see.
I wouldn't mind picking up a map and a module while the Steam sale is on as there's significant savings to be had, but I know the DCS e-shop gives you a discount on the first thing you buy too. I'll probably start with the Flaming Cliffs 3 pack and learn the Frogfoot (my favourite plane) and then maybe pick up something else like the Viggen or Mirage (not the Razbam one) in the future.
In order to provide some quicker thrills, I also picked up a huge amount of IL-2 content on Steam for the princely sum of sweet FA due to the significant discounts in the summer sale.
The main advantage of buying through ED rather than Steam is that Steam does not allow a discounted pre-order period on new modules, whereas ED do.I ordered a Virpil HOTAS setup in the end, the throttle and control panel module and the stick base unit were both on backorder, so who knows when the order will turn up, customer support said usually no more than a few weeks but we'll see.
I wouldn't mind picking up a map and a module while the Steam sale is on as there's significant savings to be had, but I know the DCS e-shop gives you a discount on the first thing you buy too. I'll probably start with the Flaming Cliffs 3 pack and learn the Frogfoot (my favourite plane) and then maybe pick up something else like the Viggen or Mirage (not the Razbam one) in the future.
In order to provide some quicker thrills, I also picked up a huge amount of IL-2 content on Steam for the princely sum of sweet FA due to the significant discounts in the summer sale.
There is FC4 about to be released (possibly on today's update), adding the F-85, MiG-15 and F-5E to the lineup, so might be worth hanging on for that.
I’m not sure if ED still do the discount for first time buyers? It’s still worth buying from them and not steam though - you can earn ED miles on purchases (as long as it’s not third party) that you can save up and use.
As for today’s update (that was supposed to be out yesterday) I’m not surprised the CH47 has been delayed. I have pre ordered Afghanistan as I used my refund credit from the F15. So looking forward to seeing what that’s like.
I will say though there is a lot of discontent in the ED community - personally I’ve moved over to msfs now most of the time. The AI in dcs needs a complete overhaul and they don’t seem to be in any rush to do it. But we now have moving grass…
As for today’s update (that was supposed to be out yesterday) I’m not surprised the CH47 has been delayed. I have pre ordered Afghanistan as I used my refund credit from the F15. So looking forward to seeing what that’s like.
I will say though there is a lot of discontent in the ED community - personally I’ve moved over to msfs now most of the time. The AI in dcs needs a complete overhaul and they don’t seem to be in any rush to do it. But we now have moving grass…
Terry Tibbs said:
I will say though there is a lot of discontent in the ED community - personally I’ve moved over to msfs now most of the time. The AI in dcs needs a complete overhaul and they don’t seem to be in any rush to do it. But we now have moving grass…
There is certainly a lot of grumbling on the forums, but things aren't all bad. BMS is years ahead in terms of AI, comms, campaign engine, and (arguably) aircraft systems fidelity, but it is essentially just a Viper sim (all of the other types are just modded F-16s, with the exception of the new F-15C). DCS has more modules, from different eras, including rotary wing, and even limited ground unit control. There are more theatres of operation and a much more detailed ground environment and (for now) better VR & control input integration. ED are improving things, but the pace of change is incredibly slow, and the fact that we would even think of comparing DCS with a legacy sim from 20 years ago speaks volumes about the work still required. DCS is great if you understand the limitations of the engine and work within them. With a bit of imaginative scenario creation, it is possible to set up very realistic operations, but it requires a lot of time invested, and a lot of poetic licencing when it comes to the correct unit substitution.MSFS is a visual spectacle, but of course lacks any combat element.
Terry Tibbs said:
I’m not sure if ED still do the discount for first time buyers? It’s still worth buying from them and not steam though - you can earn ED miles on purchases (as long as it’s not third party) that you can save up and use.
As for today’s update (that was supposed to be out yesterday) I’m not surprised the CH47 has been delayed. I have pre ordered Afghanistan as I used my refund credit from the F15. So looking forward to seeing what that’s like.
I will say though there is a lot of discontent in the ED community - personally I’ve moved over to msfs now most of the time. The AI in dcs needs a complete overhaul and they don’t seem to be in any rush to do it. But we now have moving grass…
I’m a bit fed up with DCS I have all the maps and about 15 modules but until they sort their sAs for today’s update (that was supposed to be out yesterday) I’m not surprised the CH47 has been delayed. I have pre ordered Afghanistan as I used my refund credit from the F15. So looking forward to seeing what that’s like.
I will say though there is a lot of discontent in the ED community - personally I’ve moved over to msfs now most of the time. The AI in dcs needs a complete overhaul and they don’t seem to be in any rush to do it. But we now have moving grass…
t out it’s now on the back burner.The F15 and I had just started using the Harrier which may stop working after each update ( yes I know the F15 radar is stuffed now )
No dynamic campaign still and like you say concentrating on daft cosmetic updates.
I had really been looking forward to the F4 but I’ll never buy a module again until it’s out of early access if I ever buy again.
I’ve been playing Falcon BMS over the past couple of weeks after digging my old big box out of the loft and it’s been a bit of an eye opener compared to DCS !
I’ve got falcon bms but haven’t got around to trying it yet, probably will come winter when I’m in the house a bit more.
The F4 is very good, peak dcs I reckon but you’re right, until they improve the core game it gets boring very fast.
Today’s update (that was supposed to come yesterday) has been delayed again. Can’t say I’m surprised but I am disappointed.
Most of my sim time now is spent flying the just flight 146 in msfs, that thing is great!
The F4 is very good, peak dcs I reckon but you’re right, until they improve the core game it gets boring very fast.
Today’s update (that was supposed to come yesterday) has been delayed again. Can’t say I’m surprised but I am disappointed.
Most of my sim time now is spent flying the just flight 146 in msfs, that thing is great!
Terry Tibbs said:
I’ve got falcon bms but haven’t got around to trying it yet, probably will come winter when I’m in the house a bit more.
The F4 is very good, peak dcs I reckon but you’re right, until they improve the core game it gets boring very fast.
Today’s update (that was supposed to come yesterday) has been delayed again. Can’t say I’m surprised but I am disappointed.
Most of my sim time now is spent flying the just flight 146 in msfs, that thing is great!
Agreed, the F-4E is brilliant. I never got into the Tomcat, so was sceptical of the Phantom and genuinely expected it to become another hangar queen, but it is currently my go-to and really enjoying the challenge of a manual, non-FBW heavy fighter. It makes a great substitute F-4K/M/FGR for patrolling the GIUK and Nordkapp.The F4 is very good, peak dcs I reckon but you’re right, until they improve the core game it gets boring very fast.
Today’s update (that was supposed to come yesterday) has been delayed again. Can’t say I’m surprised but I am disappointed.
Most of my sim time now is spent flying the just flight 146 in msfs, that thing is great!
I spent a lot of time in the 146 in X-Plane 11, not used it much in MSFS though as my system seems to struggle with it a bit, but it is a well made module of an interesting British Boeing/Airbus alternative.
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