Arma 3 - Sixteen Years of Serious Fun - ShackTac 2021 Year In Review

[@dslyecxi]

I'm always interested in specific feedback regarding moments you thought worked particularly well, or just general thoughts on the video as a whole, so feel free to share those if you're willing.

[@airsoftluke]

I think all of the slight pauses timed with music with "someone doing this thing / transitional cuts / explosions" and neat little events worked really well. It seemed like this year was more of a "grand scheme overview" as opposed to some of the previous' years more intense gunfight-y videos, and I love that you've done both. The slow builds with music are done wonderfully, the cuts helping build right alongside the song are superb as always. I think you've always done the cinematography of YIR's very nicely, and this was yet another improvement that I didn't think was possible.

[@jeremystone9067]

my favorite part was when you shot that guy

[@smoore6461]

Greet video sir! I've seen a lot of the videos you took these nomenfs from, buy I really enjoyed the way you formated this whole video! That's for all the awesome hours of entertainment you have given me sir!!

[@demaru983]

Just wanted to say thank you for another high quality video with the best bits of some of the best content to be found on youtube. Please pass on my thanks to the rest of ShackTac who have kept me entertained for over ten years.

[@captainrunngun1181]

this video was actually incredible!! really well edited and the music fit perfectly with the moments in the video. The pacing was solid too. It certainly didn't feel like an hour

[@dslyecxi]

Last time I did a premiere for a video, the streaming resolution was artificially low. My plan for this one is that if this premiere starts and the quality is bad, I'll just cut the stream and immediately release the full-length video. Also, the song list isn't in the description right now to avoid spoilers, but I'll add it in once the premiere has finished. For those wondering, this video is 1:00:06 and features 14 different tracks.

[@crossingthetee6733]

To paraphrase Ghostboots: "You know, Dslyecxi, I probably don't tell you this enough... Shacktac really is fucking cool" - sums it up perfectly.

[@daanimus]

I will never tire of: rocket launcher montages, and panicked fleeing in vehicles.

[@merrick3627]

That scene near the start as you dive under water and the music muffles is so slick.

[@onezerotwo]

in general it amazes me that this is a year in review, and not ten years. the amount you all get up to is astounding! i have to say I really enjoyed the little levity break about 3/4th of the way through, you injected what seems like a “troopers goofin around running their mouths” section and that was a great breather in between all the explosions. I really enjoyed that moment. that transport helicopter crash that ends abruptly with one guy saying “I love you g…” was actually rather emotional! there was some earlier part of the film where I really remarked on the incredible wholesomeness of the Dslyecxi / CraneSong partnership, that is very nice to behold. lastly, because I absolutely love your breakdown of a disaster vids the palpable dread every time those blue/grey beach landing mission clips came in was yikes :D.

[@LunyNephilem]

If there was a set of radio buttons to choose my favourite part of these Year In Reviews... I'd find a way to press all of them. I've always enjoyed that these review videos showcase all the cinematic moments, from the amazing to the hectic, to the seat of your pants "I should have worn red today" moments. I think though, the best part if I had to be honest, isn't just that you showcase all these moments, it's that you show those little moments of the community, the friendships, MG bait dying, the banter, and just ultimately the amazing community of ShackTac as a whole. Your videos of ShackTac have gotten me through long days of marking, some of my thesis (I do seem to get distracted a lot during that though), and just, some days in general. So thankyou Dslyecxi and to all of ShackTac for making videos like this, and your regular releases possible.

[@M4A1MG42]

Just letting you know that you got recognized by a PC Gamer article for the Year in Review series. Congrats!

[@originalpastaman5470]

I've always loved playing games where you feel like apart of something huge, especially when everyone else around you is an actual player and not an npc. Some of my most memorable moments playing games like Arma or BF2 PR were the times when this whole big battle is going down and here you are with a small group of guys either playing your small part in the bigger picture or just trying to survive and get out of danger. What on paper is just you walking from point A to B turns into a small (mis)adventure that always sticks out from regular moments of playing games. Even the parts where you are just walking, or driving from point A to B, these moments that feel so authentic that it just etches into your brain and becomes things that you remember years later. Watching Shacktac, especially YIR is just filled with these types of moments. Been watching for years and hope to continue seeing more content from you guys. Can't wait to see Shacktac platoon turn into Shacktac battalion with Arma 4.

[@speck213]

Man I love these. I don’t have as much free time as I used to so watching whole ops is rare for me, but the end of the year specials have been a staple of the last ~7 years. Love em, thanks for all you do!

[@jsteckle4897]

I got to say all of the razor close getaways are fantastic to watch. Highlight was dodging the techie then driving past the bmp and then popping up over the hill to see another techie waiting and having your passenger shoot the gunner out. Beautiful video all in all

[@throngcleaver]

All I can say, is thank you for bringing more time, talent, skill, and FUN to us, than anyone out there. And that doesn't count the amazing YIRs you work so hard to produce.

[@crankyguy135]

Wow, that was awesome - I didn't even realize it was an hour long until you said it in the comments. Thanks for the year of enjoyment, and so happy many of my favorite clips made it. That poor guy who got shot by a tank in the courtyard, lots of you getting chased around things by armor, and those moments of insanity on the airfield with the C130s. ps- Quote of the Year: " My lack of optimism is due to a wealth of experience. " GOLD -- can I steal that??

[@SpencerBurkett]

The part I love about ShackTac is that it's not your papa's milsim. They don't simulate being part of just ONE unit or branch, and they don't just fight in one theatre. They do ALL of them. Each video is never the same as the last and it's always interesting every single time.

[@bayezid122]

Wow, great to see that the group is still active! Those were the days :D

[@IMunchOnCats]

I guess Christmas comes early this year. Can't wait to watch this!

[@_Zacam_]

Despite only being a watcher of these videos, I'm always glad that I can and proud of what you all put out there for the rest of us to enjoy. These last few years have been rough, ShackTac remaining consistent and persistent has helped me at least make it through; so from me to all of you: Thank you. (KZbin doesn't let me change font size, so somebody will have to probably read this for MGBait. :D)

[@BlackShadow1991]

ShackTac's YIR remains one of my year's highlights and with this edition, in my biased opinion, you have went above and beyond of what could be expected, dear author :D Music choices are a total banger. Cinematic shots are aplenty. Editing is top notch. And even though the video lasts for an hour, the quality and pace does not drop for a single minute :) I would say that this feels like a magnum opus, but... 2022 will come and I have a feeling the bar will be raised once again ^_^

[@JanB1605]

Every time I think "Ah, I'll play with these guys once!" but then I remember that I can't. Would love to play with you guys, have fun once again!

[@Jarlerus]

Ooo! The yearly "Hey, I remember that video!" video =)

[@HMarcBower]

37:25 - the way you had the rockets hitting in time with the music... nice :)

[@rinalds637]

I am so so glad that there was a section dedicated to arma moments (tm)

[@ralphjackson2518]

19:23 is legit one of your best shots in any video period

[@pixelfox6067]

He's got a real talent for framing and capturing moments. My favourite is 41:37.

[@wafflepillow]

Your videos are what inspired me to start playing arma and form my own community and here we are 5 years on still operating, thank you Dslyecxi and Shacktac

[@chrisrotvega1646]

I just want to say you and shacktac made me get into Arma in the first place ever since I first saw your channel in 2012 and thanks to that I've met some the best people in the world thank you.

[@QemeH]

I am constantly amazed at your video editing prowess you showcase with these. I know not every video can be like that because then you'd never get to play, but I look forward to these every year. As to criticism: Not enough "let's do thiiii-argh" Ghostboots deaths. ;D [Also - I just lost it at: "WOOOOOOHOOOOOOO" - "How's it going back there R2?"]

[@Troublechutor]

How is this game, this good, and this under-played? Makes me sad... but I'm glad that shack-tac exists, because these are awesome.

[@pimedus9675]

Thanks man! I was away from your content for 4-5 odd years and now i'm back. Enjoying it immensely! Keep it up! =)

[@Nunya_Argo79]

I can't believe you've been doing this 16 years and that i've been watching for...way too many of those 16, lol. Congrats on the success and it's continuation man. Great work, as usual.

[@schtoobs]

The short clips lack some of the context of your longer clips but the music and editing does a really good job of making up for it. Plus the footage is cool as shit. Really good job.

[@sccomrex1153]

Well, got only two things to say: Thank you, Dslyecxi and well done! All the best for you and all fellow ShackTac members in 2022. See you around! *salutes and walks off into the sunset*

[@ryanbarber231]

Amazing content as always. As much as I love the cinematography when you are dead the FPS content is what really brings it alive for me. Thank you for continuing to put these together for us so we can live vicariously through you and ShackTac.

[@johnelliott7850]

With mods and DLC there is just endless fun to be had with this game. I'm only going to think of getting Arma 4 (together with a new PC, for the task) when it's had time to 'bed-in' a little, with some of its own mods and DLC.

[@benswanson914]

Thanks for another year of great content, distilled into an hour of top moments. Editing and composition top notch as always, with themes and transitions, structure and comedic interludes. A tribute to the community, to serious fun. What you highlight here, what you excerpt, what you value - this is why I'm still a viewer of yours, and your ST members, after so many years. Thank you. Thank you all.

[@raginube]

Too many good things to say about this Year in Review. It must have been a ton of work. Just want to say Thank You, for the extra effort, the tons of content this year, and a place to escape for a couple hours from all the crap going on. Its been one hell of a ride.

[@Andrew_Price]

A great compilation. Good editing, well thought out moments. Great music selection. Good job!

[@jammart1]

definitely the best cinematography this year by far

[@bengossler6193]

Pretty sure Dslyecxi brings more players to arma than any other single person / unit. Bravo. This is a beautiful video.

[@drew1878]

I've been watching since the beginning, thank you for all of the videos

[@alanlawz]

You have really spoiled us this year, thankyou so much for 12months of superb entertainment i have enjoyed every minute, cant wait to see what comes in 2022, again thankyou and have a merry Christmas.

[@sandspar]

First Class production. Music was right on, what a ride. The music muted when going underwater, that was detail, and cool. Showed ST making the greatest simulator ever made come alive. Open sourcing this was a good move, then supporting it like BIS does. It should well outlast me. Wonder if A4 will make 3 look as antiquated as 2 did? Well done, Dslyecxi, you give so much, and make ARMA what it can be. Bravo and Salute!

[@Revixy]

Damn for the length of the video and damn you for the cringe for the poggers line Dslyecxi.

[@TimChuma]

I still appreciate you doing these even though I don't get the chance to sit down and watch a lot of the Shacktac videos like in the old days (I used to watch mutiple users perspectives of the same operation.) 2022 is the 10 year anniversary of the DayZ mod. CHKilroy was the first one I watched of it. Never saw what happened to the other team in that series.

[@johanponken]

12:08 …"acceptable castualty" (in the voice of Militant) kind of defines a ST mission.

[@Zues120]

Only 16 short years! Just saw a vid on the ground tech for arma IV. Insane to think how long we've all been at this

[@mckseal]

Goosebumps with the segment from 30mins on. God damn I love this.

[@glennpeterson1357]

An hours worth of ST 2021 YiR has made my day! 😃 Thanks Dslyecxi!

[@CarterDDana]

I love these videos, the dedication to Shacktac always comes through and it’s fun to watch. Thank you!

[@muzleflash1341]

Untold hours of entertainment over the last sixteen years, enjoyment and fun, thank you to all of ShackTac and Dslyecxi wishing you all happy holidays and a very safe and happy new year

[@djcoopes7569]

That moment of the guy crouching at 21:44 looks almost photorealistic

[@yoyo992299]

What a great video Dslyecxi. It shows that a lot of work has been done in this video and in this year's content. Well done :)

[@adamvoigt14]

So Beautiful. Nothing like memorable times with the boys. This is why we play games. Because looking back it's just epic immeasurable fun. Great vid, as always!

[@JamesHussey404]

Have to say that this was amazing which shouldn't surprise me at this point but you never fail to amaze me and thank you Dslyecxi for the hard work and effort you put in not for just this video but for all your videos. Also imo best year in review but I say that every year 😂😂

[@Viper1Zero]

Hey brother! Phenomenal look back on a kick ass year. Was hoping to reach out to you on Discord. Cheers, mate.

[@dslyecxi]

I added you through the A3 Discord.

[@snaggletooth1773]

I have a lot to catch up on from this year but it has been a great time as always Dslyecxi. Thank you and your group for the years of entertainment.

[@Vimichi]

I absolutely love watching these every year! Always very cinematic and well made! Keep it up ShackTac and Dslyecxi. :D

[@Razzlion]

Hell yes! Look forward to this video every year! Thank you for making the months fly by with amazing and fun content :)

[@dakaodo]

After so many years, is it somewhat second nature now, to earmark certain moments almost as they happen, b/c you know they'll be probably shortlist candidates for EoYR clips? I imagine you don't just blindly rewatch your entire year's output to find clips, and that you have a pretty good sense by now of what is likely to work well. Do you copy those clips and store them right after each mission, to save editing/review time at the end of the year? The number of brutal squad wipes, total mission wipes, narrowly avoided wipes, and very-near-misses this year seemed to jump out at me. Maybe I was hoping for more, so I noticed them. I've always found it bleak yet motivational how you all will soldier on to the last person. It was great to see some of those moments of realization here, when the sinking feeling hits. I love how you edit this into "acts" with assorted setups and building action, then climaxes and falling action, epilogues, etc. However it is supposed to be described in literary terms. :P Also, some great use of juxtaposition. The occasional WTF moments of extreme surprise or quiet anticlimax that directly contrast against whatever previous clip you used in the previous moment (like a low key sardonic observation after a crazy 1-in-a-1000 incident; or the opposite with an extremely violent red mist splash after some slow movement) are pretty great. Timing w the music is also really on point. The opener with action and then your question "Can you guys see anything out there? No? Hm." was great. The jokes like "What if ShackTac was actually boring?" "Well, *I* wouldn't be here." Or one of the guys talking about being bad at surfing on his honeymoon, "Well, you haven't quit Arma yet..." In-mission, I've seen how random and uncommon they are, scattered in a few seconds throughout a 1-2 hr video. Here, I feel like you use them well to convey that sense of occasional Catch-22 esque black humor in lulls between mass pixeltruppen death. After so many years, a lot of the old hands also have a 4th wall awareness of what might get into a EoYR -- like in mission I hear when people make bets on an incident making it into the video. Still, there's plenty of random conversations about life, pets, anime, or actual in-character jokes and straight man cluelessness that you guys naturally have, making ShackTac definitely not-boring. I particularly loved Lil Fuzzy Seal's Captain Obvious moment (not to pick on him too much, b/c a lot of us have those moments) after your legs got perforated by the BTR. "Are you legged?" Love those moments of spontaneous, unintended comedy. "Clear my field of fire. ... Or that works too." "Heavy gun to the north. Yep, you found it." "It's like a scene from Zulu." "Bravo's in a world of shit." "I"m gonna give you epi, and then you're going to run and provide another target. That's our plan for getting out of here." I'm not going to list all the approximate quotes (b/c that would be picking on Lil Fuzzy Seal again), but they're ALL great. Perfection in every natural moment. Having watched maybe 2/3 of these missions on your initial posts, I have some vague memory of where some of the clips happened during the mission. I remember the one where your mechanized unit advanced over bright sunlit grassy fields (with the BTR, BRDMs, and T-72s fording the river) was actually the somewhat anticlimactic end of that mission, but here you used the countryside Sunday drive for several "rising action" moments leading to climaxes from other missions. Maybe not a big deal, but I thought it was nicely creative to repurpose an actual ending as a beginning. At the time I watched it, you had some moments where you panned your vision across the scene and, as you've previously commented, sometimes you also genuinely just enjoy taking in the spectacle, the view. I felt some of what you were feeling then, as the BRDMs rolled across the gentle dips and swells w troops riding on top. Those shots seemed right away like good candidates for the EoYR. The pacing overall is on par with something high-octane like CoD or fill in the blank rah rah war movie, but here I know it's all unscripted (even when it's somewhat premeditated pranks, like parking the helos between hangars at the end of one mission, or dropping off passengers on top of the ATC tower). I think that's indicative of both the quality and sheer quantity of raw material, to turn up so many natural gems. The only thing missing is some craft beer and a handwritten sign advertising artisanal mass murder. And I'm only 12 minutes in. Yep, same themes for the next 48 minutes. :) Great snark, nail biting, and despair. AT and air support rocket strikes look amazing in the dark. The short interlude of gaffs and deployment hijinks ("It's an MTLB! An MTVR! Mike one zero eight three papa!") was a good breather for pacing. AT montage had nice, tight editing that escalated. I would say the review alone was as long as an entire mission video, but you've been posting more 90-120+ minute videos, as well. Great finish to a content-packed year. Happy holidays to you!

[@Harryherbet]

Curse you dyslecxi and causing and continuing to make my arma addiction worse, thanks for all the great videos

[@Elfalpha1]

Hell of an awesome year Dslyecxi! Life's been so busy I've got a backlog of your vids to work through. I recognize plenty of these awesome moments, but there's quite a few that make me look forward to watching the rest!

[@Tali_the_Dragon]

Thank you for another year of fantastic content, I am not lying when I say that somedays your videos are the only good news I get and it literally pulls me out of depression. Have a wonderful holiday season and look forward to everything coming in 2022!

[@zadtheinhaler]

Bloody stellar as always. Cheers, and here's to another great year of ShackTac!

[@DarkReaver921]

Absolutely wonderful, as usual. You continue to knock it out of the park

[@ceilonc]

Great video as usual. You always give me the urge to jump back into arma 3

[@tawwicky7909]

A Pog af year in review

[@jeffreypurcell4681]

Thanks again for another great year !

[@madbrainsurgeon]

ace loving it

[@Phenosi]

Amazing video, good pacing, Love the use of DOOM music :)

[@Navistar-cu2po]

Congrats by being publish on PC Gamer last month. This vid made it to Evan Lahti's column

[@backfire2966]

Very well put together.

[@kerdajan]

Goosebumps. Less of the funnies this year, but damn, that's one hell of an advert for A3

[@freudbow4045]

Beautiful work.

[@Mariotonio]

Definitely the best fps ever... No doubt.

[@jamesgibson661]

When I need a fix I look for the nearest Shac Tac video. Thanks.

[@PrismBoss]

I want 'My lack of optimism is due to a wealth of experience' on a t-shirt

[@realgrumpyjoe]

Nice edit

[@CoverSlaves]

Well played :)

[@charliep7448]

Amazing!!!!

[@HMarcBower]

"My lack of optimism is due to a wealth of experience." :)

[@tnarggrant9711]

Very well done.

[@thedangermouse1991]

Noticed he included shooting down helicopters but not his mid-air collision, hmm. But great video as always.

[@dslyecxi]

That was 2020.

[@thedangermouse1991]

@@dslyecxi my bad years blend together

[@burchocolate]

[@FBH991]

the last segment is very metal gear solid.

[@Taytayflan]

Does anyone know the mod that creates the aircraft camera with cardinal directions overlayed? That would have been real useful for me in an orbiting aircraft a few days ago.

[@williamhutt2588]

I wonder that Ghostboots? thinks he did ask

[@urint3902]

Congrats on making onto PCGamer lol

[@johanponken]

16:35 Do you survive jumping out of a heli going down like that?

[@dslyecxi]

Generally no, but it can happen.

[@Rasbiff]

Which is the video with the WW2 Brits in the jungle?

[@dslyecxi]

It’s not out yet.

[@LanierHb]

maybe I see @13:38 da dude think he Nicolas cage :)

[@perhaglind7142]

is there anyone here who has counted how many times you have died in battle in this game! 🪖