The Ultimate Question -- Ext Views vs Locked Cockpit

[dduff442]

Originally Posted by robtek

No problem, one can decide: game today or rather simulation.

I get very uptight about a new sim campaign -- I train in the new a/c, avoid combat during practice (if you take off in a fighter with 1 wingman, you can 'dogfight' him) etc. It takes me weeks! That's why I enjoy a bit of gaming as well.

I have to say you hear a lot about the free-for-all ext views servers, but nearly all the flyers are at least ok. Without good technique and a bit of skill it's going to be painful flying online. Some of the players are outstanding in all categories, though I'm sure many play with locked cockpits as well.

dduff

[Azimech]

There probably is a niche for the types like Blackdog and me, who like to keep the aircraft systems harmonized to that narrow line of optimal performance, in a way learning to "feel" the engine what it can and can't do. The first period when complex management reaches it's new level, people without insight or knowledge will be fighting the aircraft much more than fighting others, like it will be with the new g-limits. In time, a few develop intuition and feel what to do, when to do it, without looking at the instruments. Experts on energy tactics and situational awareness will have a new challenge when faced with a flying Montgomery Scott. Those flying engineers won't need the cockpit view as much anymore but I wonder if they really bother about the help of Wonder Woman then. I think there will be a new class of players: full real pilots with a mix of hydraulic fluid and engine oil in their veins.

Personally I jumped with joy when Complex Engine Management was introduced and have never flown without it. Then my joy sank when I saw how limited it was.