I'm Thinking of Quitting YouTube & DCS World

[@AP-ng1bm]

From an old man, all I can say is life is too short to tread water doing things you don’t enjoy, keep moving and trying new things. You only get one playthrough.

[@Bronco-1776]

From another old man - life is so short that it doesn't even matter what you do!

[@OldTimerGamer-pr3ow]

@@Bronco-1776 absolutely agree. Life is short. And the quality of life is even shorter than that.

[@Spudknocker]

Hey guys, I just wanted to give a massive thank you to all of you out there for all of the support over the years as we hit this huge 70,000 Subscriber milestone, and I am sorry for the downer title to this video but I am definitely having a hard time creating videos lately and while I really don't want to quit I had to speak frankly with you all about why making videos has gotten so difficult and why I am contemplating quitting DCS and KZbin. Thank you for listening guys, I really appreciate it!

[@gradycowley5303]

Bro.....thanks for all the hours of content and hard work 💯💪🏾

[@highlanderc]

Thank you. Been a long time subscriber. I have quit DCS for a couple of years now, main issue its hard to get any friends interested in the game. And this is happening with all games in general. The game is sort of fragmented in the sense that people have their teams and they are not very welcoming, so no new players are coming in. Its amazing that DCS has still been updating.

[@FloorTerra]

Whatever you decide: please take care of yourself and thank you for all your work.

[@kennethhicks2113]

Do what feels right for you. We have many phases/stages of our life's. God bless.

[@ShatteredArchive5447]

“I have been constantly chasing the perfect video that satisfies the haters-“ That is…something. I’m not here to be one of said haters but to just be plain, that’s just another kind of delusion. These people that hate on your videos have made it their stance on your channel and aren’t going to change because you make a video that stands out, it just doesn’t work that way unfortunately. It’s corny but F the haters and worry about the people who care about the channel, it’s less taxing. But otherwise yeah I get why your considering this.

[@mikeck4609]

Spud, a piece of advise I learned long ago: Don’t create your own problems; and don’t make decisions that don’t need to be made. If you don’t need the money, then why worry about algorithms and views? Put out the content that YOU want to put out and do it when YOU feel like it. Finally, make it a one way transaction. Turn the comments off. You are putting out creative work for others to see b/c t you enjoy it and want them to..so there is no need to comments. Don’t create a problem where there isn’t one. Keep your channel and do what you want without regard to who likes it or how many watch it. You’re “free” now. Free from the need to please and beat algorithms

[@bird.9346]

Very wise advice

[@LimitlessHorizonVRSimrigs]

I couldn't agree more with this statement. I've only just started my KZbin channel and I'm sticking to making content my way, on what I want and not following any sort of trend. As long as I'm having fun it's a healthy hobby. Love your videos Spud 😊

[@luclaviolette6612]

Take care of yourself first! Thank you so much for your great work and output.

[@AIRWARFAREGROUP]

I have quit DCS thousands of times...it's easy to just fire it back up and jump back into the DCS World of things! 😹

[@fjb5894]

Same here, updated DCS and can no longer spawn into Multiplayer servers. Hourglass of death, DCS not responding.

[@jltplayz816]

@@fjb5894hey man I was encountering a similar problem. A temporary fix until, ED fixes it is to disable the super carrier module. The menu is still slow but you will be able to load into a multiplayer server without crashing. Hope this fixes it

[@Karl-Hungus]

Thats kinda where I am at right now....I have a hard time as of late trying to enjoy playing and just loose interest fast when I try and do anything. I just find its best to step back and take a break from it . Its frustrating but is just the way the mind works from time to time...

[@fjb5894]

@@Karl-Hungus I updated tonight and flew just fine. I have noticed only 6 or 7 other players instead of 20-30. Something is changing. New maps also cause migrations I’ve noticed.

[@tropicthndr]

The problem with dcs is, watching anyone’s videos ,is boring as hell. The only thing fun about DCS is being in your plane and flying it. Watching someone else in their plane is a complete waste of time, other than tutorials.

[@jaredwilson007]

Sad day if you leave. You and your channel are the reason I got into DCS. Hope you find a way to fall in love with this again......

[@DCSWORLDPAK]

Hey man, I feel you. Just hit 50K. The incomes gone to shizz. In my region it's down to 10 cents per 1000 views and doesn't make any sense to make effort content anymore. YT doesn't feel it yet but it will be the death of the platform because it really has creators in a cross. I feel like just flying around and engage with my community vlog/podcast style nowadays. That's the only reason to stay on.

[@woodsbikes6130]

For what it's worth Spud, Id like to add my 2 cents worth of opinion. I for one enjoy and appreciate all the work you've invested into making your videos. Out of all the YT DCS channels I've seen, you are one my favorites. I also think it's pretty amazing and generous of you to do one-on-one coaching to help folks become better sim pilots. Thank you for everything you've done for us DCS players. Best wishes to one and all. 😁😎

[@viperkeeper]

Spud, as a fellow YT'ber I feel your pain. Burn-out is real after making over 2012 videos on my channel. I've delt with the haters over the years as you're now, as well as dwindling revenue. Somebody always thinks they can do it better, just a fact of social media and society today. I learned to bush it off, as they're just jealous of my success. I think you need to come to this realize this too, your success is because you care about quality and helping other DCS enthusiasts. They make themselves feel better about themselves by putting other people down. I've learned much from you videos since starting my journey in DCS at the end of 2022. I still refer back to many of them because of your attention to detail in whatever airframe I need a refresher course. Don't let them wear you down, live you're dream as you envision it.

[@jackpatterson8389]

You do you Spud. I'll be back no matter what. Thanks for making me a better sim pilot.

[@michaelturner4357]

Amen to that. Spud explained things in a manner that made sense and certainly less scary for this 60 year old when starting the DCS journey. I hope you leave your instructional videos up, I rewatch them regularly, especially with regards to the mission editor. Take a break Spud and when you return (hopefully) …… in the best Arnie voice “I’LL BE BACK” too

[@isaacswinson5308]

Spudknocker, Thanks man for all you have done to help make DCS World a lot easer for guys like me. I have been flying in DCS World for almost 2 yrs and I have learned a lot by watching guys like you. I would say take your time and balance your life as this is a game. When I retired form the Army my Command Sergeant Major said, "First Sergeant, there are going to be 3 types of folks always out there! Those that are sad you are leaving, those that don't care your leaving, and those that are happy you are leaving". Don't let the hatters get you down from what you love to do. Good luck and stay safe.

[@Spent_Brass]

Watching this video makes me sad Spud, but I completely understand. You are one of the main reason and your videos made me want to get into DCS. I have had a few awesome training sessions with you man and very thankful those happened. You are one cool dude and THANK YOU so much for making me a better virtual pilot. Big props my man, and haters are confused admirers.

[@David52s]

Hey spud, over the months I've been watching your videos, most of your information really helped me to become great pilot in DCS world, the way you explain and the way you share your knowledge to others is just making it more easier to understand game mechanics at certain planes and all of that, I may didn't get yet in your discord / nor Any supportive server, But I just want you to know that you're best at the work that you got to that milestone, I'm still surprised how you not at least 200k subs, My point is that you keep your good work, Thank you very much for all that help to what I became today.

[@CueDriver]

Spud your videos are awesome and your stories were amazing. In the long run you do you. Your life and happiness matters the most. This is why I don't make hobbies my work. This kills the happiness of it. You only get one life and you need to make it happy for you. If we have fun with you, that a bonus. But in the end it is your decision. I am glad you are sticking it out for those of us who enjoy your content. For those that don't, go find what makes you happy and leave us alone.

[@raylemus72]

Spud! Don’t make a it a transaction. Don’t expect anything back. Do it cause you love it and don’t expect anything in return. Get the satisfaction from the great videos and on your performance based on your DCS mission goals. Is a hobby man. You do it cause you love it and send everyone who has problems with what you do to go fly a kite. Keep doing what you love man.

[@meezy9048]

I’ve been constantly following you since I started DCS (around 4 years ago). And I think I speak for everyone saying that this is "just" KZbin. Go out, enjoy your life and family !! If you want to come back afterwards we will still be there ! Our community can be pretty toxic, don’t let it get into your personal life ! Mucho love

[@fgp1505th]

Hey Spud, I just want to say thank you, you and Operation Burning Sand have been an inspiration to me as I'm currently working on my air combat story. I wish you good luck on your piloting career and hopefully I hear your voice at any tower frequency

[@hanswolfgangmercer]

Hey Spud, I just want to say I've really appreciated your content over the years! I know the haters kind of have more of an impact than positive things, but I did want to express my appreciation for the content! I've loved following the Burning Sands campaign from the start. Life is too short to get hung up about all this stuff if it isn't fun for you though. Spend time with your dog and your family and real aircraft!

[@ecirpnai1]

Spud, I love DCS. From the early Lockdown days to the present and the things that make it so good are the detailed aircraft modules, the terrain maps, the detailed manuals, etc. Plus one other thing that makes DCS so good and that is people like you and the other guys such as Cap from the Grim Reapers, Tactical Pascale and a few others. Who put in the hours to make really professional tutorial videos that really help people like me enjoy DCS so much. So whatever you decide, thanks mate.

[@cgaviator]

From one to another, burnout is a harsh reality, especially for youtubers. Perfectionism in video creation is a real hurdle and one I've yet to successfully battle. My priority, with the limited time I have outside of work, has shifted heavily towards family, friends and the outdoors. While I always have the nagging self-imposed guilt that I should be posting videos, the freedom of going for a walk without digital distraction is unparalleled. I hope you reinvigorate your passion, whatever it happens to be. All the best!

[@CaptainFantastik1]

I could never envision the KZbin content grind, I stepped away from DCS a little before the huge update months ago, more or less from burnout. I haven’t felt like stepping back in because I don’t want to tackle post-update settings updates and all that. As far as negativity, not sure how old you are but the comment sections are light years better than they were in KZbin’s early day. 99% of comments back then were nasty for the sake of being nasty. I’ve always appreciated your time and content. Take care.

[@ajgunn3277]

DUDE! I JUST MADE A POST ON THIS. A huge speel in wingmanfinder, and i had admin hammering me down. Got on DCS fb, and boom, caught the plague trying to make a point. People are being aweful. But hey: It's not our DCS community. It's just a bunch of warthunder ninnies that have come across to DCS and now infect our arenas. PLEASE stay with us. Otherwise that userbase engulfs and overwhelms the true DCS community that has been so amazing. You've been a sincere and solid pillar in this community. We're all still here. Despite the 50% include of these horrible inhuman shits. Tune em out mate. Start enjoying your work again. For you.

[@HobbyDude77]

Do what you enjoy and what makes you happy. At the end of the day misery loves company and there are so many people that just want to see other people’s happiness extinguished. Take a break, go enjoy life. When and if you feel up to it we will be right here when you get back.

[@wjgoodin]

Spud. Love your content. As a new dcs member I have gone back and watched a number of your years old vids because they still hold up to this day. In the end you gotta do what makes you happy. I hope you find that happy place quickly and wish you all the best no matter what you decide to do now or in the future!

[@JakuxOrkaza]

You are a great person. If you feel like YOU need to take a break or even quit, you always can. You don't have to always have to create content. IGNORE the haters. You are the reason why i know my shit on dcs and how to fly better on dcs. You do you. If you do leave, Thank you spud for all these years and videos you put out to help us or to entertain us!

[@gofres]

Dear Spud, We all love you and your content and totally get where you're coming from. You've been a massive help and inspiration for me and I'm sure many others too. But, you did what you did because you loved it. I think you've answered your own question in this video... Go enjoy time with your family and friends, take a break, touch grass, etc. Play DCS for fun, not as a J O B, and I'm sure in time you'll decide where you want to be in this space. I've recently taken a breather from DCS after 5 years of playing regularly, it's just gotten a bit stale. I'll be back soon I'm sure, but I'm enjoying other things for now. Peace and love dude.

[@flyingnut3752]

Spud, thank you for your time and effort in producing all this content, it added allot of value to the comunity. If you read this and for what it is worth, i have just quited my real life flying job of 18 years for the same reason, i am not on youtube, but also lived for what i was doing. New pilots arrived at the company, young low hour ones, thought they know everything, telling me i dont know. I think it is a generational thing. I also decided it is not worth my time or effort to work in that environment. Do what is best for you, if you continue or come back later, dont read the comments or switch them off. Do what you love and dont mind the rest, youve got this!

[@seanrodriguez3786]

Glad you decided to stay and not leave. I’ve been watching you videos for awhile now and really enjoy how to take a very realistic approach to flight simulation. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment. I myself am not a pilot or have a PC to play DCS so through your channel I can live vicariously through your videos. Don’t let the haters get you down.

[@wurger13]

Hey Spud, I do like your content and it has been a big help over the years so you are very much appreciated. Having said that, if creating this content has become a stressor in your life, if you’re tensing up and felling anxious just making a vid, it’s time to stop and take a break IMHO. If it doesn’t bring you joy, do something that does. We all appreciate your content, but we will all soldier on if you check out. Thank for all the hard work over the years!

[@ohdearjono]

Totaly get it - work life balance stuff and what ever you decide your a legend and you have made DCS far better sim and me a far better pilot - thank you ... Jon - UK

[@wessnyder6192]

Man I hope you don’t, You are so important to the community if you go to another platform I want to know where. There are those of us who appreciate everything you do. Take a little time off and ponder don’t make a rash decision. Remember you can’t please everyone but you do have a loyal followers who appreciate all that you do. For all of us PPlease don’t go forget the haters they’ll always be there but they’re not the ones you do this for.😊❤

[@petertress72]

Spud I appreciate all you do. You need a break from all this. I want to thank you I've learned so much from you that all I can say is thank you. My friend take a year off and when you do come back we'll still be here waiting

[@randygrossman9990]

I started on DCS a little over a year ago just before I retired and still consider myself very much a newbie. However your videos have been invaluable to me while learning to operate the F/A-18 and to get a sense of just how skilled and knowledgeable you need to be in order to do all the things required of a real world pilot in one of these sophisticated aircraft. I'm amazed and saddened that anyone would threaten you over your content as its always presented in a friendly and constructive way. As others have said, try to block it out, turn off comments, etc., and produce the content you want on your own schedule. I hope you stick with it Spud. I've learned a ton from you!

[@HenkPlaggemars]

I don't always agree with you - but that's the world right? So many perspectives. You've gone public with your thoughts - to educate, to test your ideas, for some money, for your own fun, for your ego - all good! Many of us, me included appreciate the effort and courage it takes to put it out there and many have learnt more about their flight sim passion because of your efforts. I am glad that by the end of the vid you seem to have found the resolve to continue...them's no small potatoes!

[@supersquirrel0]

I just wanted to personally say thank you for all of the excellent tutorials you've made for DCS over the years; while I don't get to play a lot, my learning curve was greatly decreased based on your videos!

[@Raymanviper]

THANK YOU SIR. your videos have made DCS accessible for a novice like me. Your efforts and time have helped me enormously over the past few years. I am sooooo sorry for the haters!!! Do what is best for you at this stage in your life. You have my support and gratitude for your time invested to date. Please know you are appreciated very much

[@indewarr9371]

I don’t care what you do I’ll support you whenever because you got me back into dcs and you will always have a place in my heart❤

[@c1500kx1]

you made me want to start playing dcs and im so thankfull for that, i love your channel and will support you with what ever decision you make!

[@dunk668]

Your videos are one of the reasons I got into DCS and one of the major reasons why I picked up the F4. I think we'd all rather you took your time and put videos out a pace that's right for you, than it become too stressful. Also, where things don't go as planned, keep the footage! It's as valuable seeing where things don't always go well as when they do. As far as the trolls go, that kind of behaviour shouldn't be tolerated and certainly not on your own discord.

[@TimberDCS]

I just want to say thank you for the videos you make. I understand why you took the video down, but I think that ‘DCS in 12 minutes or less’ video was what truly got me into this hobby. Then it was your startup tutorials, system tutorials, news, and Discord that helped me progress. Now I’ve started my own F-4 community, and it couldn’t have happened without your help.

[@jeroen299]

Hi Spud. I am one of those many who doesn't respond in text many times. But now I want to say you that I admire your KZbin content. I have learnt so much of you. I enjoyed every new KZbin content of you. Maybe take a long break. But most important enjoy what you are doing. Don't let you get down by crying and threatening idiots. All the best mate and I hope to see you back.

[@AndresM2984]

I've always thought your opinions are excelent, and im sorry for those things that have been happening to you regarding People insulting you, i can only wish you the Best in every enterprise you choose to develop, and i want to thank you for all your work and dedication for this channel. Hope we meet in a server and enjoy playing together some day

[@johnblaze3546]

Spud, your the man, I love DCS World and nothing will pull me away unless death or WWIII, Forget the naysayers your videos are great, I have leaned so much from you. Your service to the DCS community is not unnoticed. I get it bud, but you keep rocking, Keep doing what you do best bud, in the DCS World, it works. Gods Speed Angels.

[@nicksmith2361]

Whatever you choose to do the people who are true supporters of yourself and your channel will back you in the choice you make Spud. Your videos have always been a great help to my DCS flying and it would be a shame if you quit but ultimately you have to do this for yourself! Unfortunately in the world at the moment there seems to be a huge amount of hate on social media which is really sad! I wish you good luck and success in the future and a massive thanks for all you’ve done!

[@sosagegaming2193]

Just fly for you Spud. Ive been playing/streaming DCS for 4 years now. I've built up a little virtual Squadron and I'm also at the point of is it worth streaming. Unfortunately I'm not a twenty something girl with a tight t-shirt so wont be going viral. Found that I'm enjoying DCS more when not streaming tbh, with my mates. Also, your profile for TrackIR has been pushed by me to loads of people. It's legendary.

[@sosagegaming2193]

Must add that in the 4 years I've been flying DCS, I've been following you and Redkite from Day 1. Wouldn't have got started in DCS if it wasn't for yours and Redkites tutorials.

[@BenReeve]

Spud, whatever you decision, know you make amazing videos, there are few out there so passionate about this topic, your videos inspired me to take DCS more seriously and thanks to them I now enjoy the sim so much more! Thanks for all the amazing effort you put in so far, in the end real life must prevail.

[@JackGogan]

i’m sorry about everything that’s going on but i wanted to say thank you for helping me learn aircraft even though i’ve never virtually met you, your post notification always brightens my mood when i’m down thank you

[@acullinger]

Would be a massive loss to the community. I’ve only just picked up DCS and your content has helped me overcome the massive learning curve. Your dedication to the community, and to educating new users. Best of luck.

[@johnrobie196]

Hi Spudknocker. I apologise as I have truly enjoyed your content yet this is the first time I have posted a comment saying how much I appreciate all the hard work you obviously put into DCS/KZbin. Especially your incredible F/A-18C tutorial videos. Quality of life needs to take preferance over quantity so don't apologise for stepping away - let alone - taking a break from KZbin. From a 53 year old 'escapist' thank you so much for all you do and I hope you have many more enjoyable Sunday 'Discord' missions.

[@Yurisminator-RC]

Hi Spud, allways remember that you dont owe us anything, the content you provide is free and we cannot dictate how you spend your time. I hope you turn your burnout around and keep on producing stuff, i dont follow you or watch your content religiously so i couldnt care less. But just remember that you enjoyed making these videos for fun at some point. Keep doing it because your having fun, if its not fun then dont do it

[@spookylukemg7552]

Hey mate. Really appreciate your videos and understand your thinking here. You'll never please the haters. Once you stop enjoying it, it's time to go. If you manage to find the spark, then keep going.

[@VyperHellcat]

Bro, subscribed about 3 or 4 years ago, not a constant watcher but enjoyed and was informed, don't let the haters rent space in your head, as far as I'm concerned they can go f themselves.

[@EvasiveSnail]

Sometimes you need to take a break, catch a breath, do something different and stimulate the mind with something fresh. I've quit dcs 67555 times but I always come back to it after a break and it's a nice feeling to get back into the swing. Burnout is real. You have got to do what you've got to do but just remember there are some of us that are long standing subscribers and we will always be here for you. Your contribution to the dcs community is outstanding and I thank you for the tuition and entertainment! Take care and hopefully you figure out a direction.

[@BulletMagnet44]

Hey Spud, Love your videos and have watched them many times. You helped me learn the F-18 in so many ways. I just joined the Spud's Buds Discord server but have been a little affraid to actually pop into some of the channels because I am not the best pilot. I would very much like to fly with other people and have more fun in the game. Hope you are not giving up DCS all together...That would be sad. Hope to fly with you one day!!

[@bleeno6187]

Thanks for sharing Spud and just a big thank you for all your clear and concise tutorial clips. Good luck and have fun 😁

[@manoelbarrosmarin2698]

Thanks a lot for your videos. They have been very helpful for me and many others. Just ignore the haters, it is very easy complaining behind a screen. I hope you feel better soon and continue enjoying DCS

[@anthonydallalio5716]

Don’t let the haters ruin your life. I watch a lot of your videos and I’ve learned a lot from your videos. Just keep enjoying DCS and life.

[@Mernoxie-Gaming-Airsoft]

Spud, i love your video's a lot. Your channel is my best and most watched dcs channel. Every time i watch one of your video's i got a lot of fun and makes me desperate for DCS. T You're inspiring me. But do what you think is the best thing to do. If you don't have fun anymore stop it. If you have fun, go on. We all support you Spud, thank you.

[@nickwaterdrinker]

Thanks for all your tremendous work Spud! Im a fan for sure. And just know that the negativity always comes from a small insignificant minority. Against them stands the huge wall of the silent majority. They will always have your back. Lets go!

[@mustezdcs6329]

You are amazing Spod ! I hope you can move on from all these shadows and find your peace again and come back to putting up quality contents like this to us DCS guys .

[@Rathgor89]

Just want to speak up and say you are doing great Spud. Your videos are always informative and entertaining. You have been the biggest inspiration for my learning to fly the F/A-18 in DCS. Keep up the great work.

[@mathewseverson8399]

Hey man don’t let the haters get to you! From a fellow airline pilot I get how busy life can be. Don’t let the toxic part of the community get to you, all games got them some or worse than others. I mainly play single player stuff in this game and I have decent time in most of the aircraft. Not sure what multiplayer is like other than KZbin videos but give me a call I’ll fly with yea.

[@billyjoe415]

Spud, I hear you about video's and other issues also. But friend, you are a major impact here in DCS and You tube. Please reconsider walking away. Make videos YOU want to make only. You are an awesome asset for all newbie pilots Spud. Just pull back, rest your mind and your body and still fly with us, we NEED you Spud!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@freighterjohn]

Nothing to apologize about, sir. It takes a toll and I believe all of us who have played DCS for years have thought hard about smashing the hard drive it is installed on. Can’t imagine the toll video production and toxic haters take. In short, thank you for everything to date. Take a break, make a pro and con list about continuing and run from there. Semper Fi, A DCS player who enjoys your content.

[@virgilioracca8588]

I know I'm a drop in an ocean but when the level of the content is high as yours I don't mind if I get a video every two months. For the trolls ... well, they are everywhere, as in real life. Sorry to hear you struggle.Keep it up man and stay strong (and enjoy your life).

[@planespottingfargo1174]

Love your stuff Spud. Whatever descision you make the community will respect. RDAF forever.

[@caydenracing71]

Spud you have come so far man since I was a kid you've inspire me to do DCS and even when I do DCS I still watch all your videos you shouldn't let people get to your head so quickly if they hate they hate. There are just jealous of what you have achieved in life, and they couldn't achieve it or they're just trying to bring you down for no reason whatsoever. Keep pushing man build up self confidence and keep moving. Make a schedule for yourself during the holiday take time to yourself and see your family. When you have work, I think everyone would understand why you couldn't upload you don't have to upload every day you can do this we believe in you.

[@eggsdooley]

Your work is timeless and will continue to teach people so much as they go on through their DCS journey. I am a new flyer and your videos are essential. The sooner you get back to just enjoying the sim a bit, the better. Just fly for fun.

[@171-OC]

I walked away from my Entire Sqn of 4 yrs, my server, everything - All because of this kind of stuff. I cant have Fun anymore in a platform that is so charged with negativity. I wish you well and thank you for everything. If you choose to leave then dont feel guilty about it, Your real life should always come first...

[@phantomplays1109]

The one op I was able to run with you was one of my favorites. You're one of the coolest people I've run into in the community. So whether you quit or stay, I'm gonna hang out.

[@colbycollins2553]

Even though I am a fairly new follower, I enjoy your content and sometimes you just need to take time for yourself! I know it’s hard but don’t let the trolls get you down! At the end of the day it’s your content and what you love to do! Keep your head up and take as much or as little time you need!

[@tdub8719]

Spud. Releived your not leaving YT but only create content while you enjoy it. IMO your vids are top level "as always". Thanks.

[@TheDegenerateLord]

Don't leave brother Learning a new model won't be the same without you !

[@lilletrille8998]

If you are not having fun in DCS, then I support you decision, I also imagine making youtube videos is very time consuming. At the end of the day - do what makes you happy! As of the internet crowd - I try to have as little interaction as possible, which is why I almost never read comments to my comments and usually do not respond to comments. At the end of the day, it is your life and your choice Spudknocker. Do what is the right thing for you! I enjoy your videos and would hate to see you leave, but in the end it is your time and your life. Thank you for all the videos you have posted so far! Stay safe Sir and I wish you the best of luck!

[@RebelNine]

I have to admit to empathising with many of the points you make. I’ve put a few DCS videos on my own channel, never monetised, I do it as I enjoy the creative process & to record my own progress. Comments left are often soul destroying! Your young, have a commercial license so the world is your oyster. Maybe get yourself something open air, seat of the pants flying & have a blast. I can recommend a Renegade Spirit, the most fun I ever had flying 🤷🏻‍♂😎

[@jakec5550]

You can't go, I just found DCS and your channel! Obviously kidding, but I think you put forth a pretty level headed point in your video. Burnout is real and when idiots get weird on top of that, I certainly understand why you'd want to end things with KZbin. I hope you continue, but if not, I hope you continue to have fun with DCS. Best of luck regardless of what you choose.

[@cleberbastazine4903]

Hey Spud, I'd like to thank you for all your time and knowledge you shared in you videos. You made me enjoy DCS and make it my personal hobby. I'm really sorry to hear that you are facing haters. I can tell you something, this people cannot do what you do. And the only escape for losers is hating someone else: the ones who are a success! Take a breath my friend... You can be really sure that there are more people who appreciate all you efforts. As always 😉

[@phelan1777]

SpudKnocker, if you happen to come across this: I have been one of many silent followers for a long time of your work here. You do GREAT videos. I'm not brown nosing here. You need to do you. Meaning if you need time off from the channel, take it. Stop listening to the negative people. They are not constructive or benefit you. The net is filled with toxic people. You have to build your self a solid base of identity and personality, and mental health. Thicken that skin. It will serve you well in life. You create content for you. Those of us that enjoy your work, will find it. Don't do something you feel you should. Do it because you desire it and enjoy it. - Just my .02.

[@jeug5207]

I just want to say that I have always enjoyed watching your videos and your command of the technical aspects of military aviation has been very good. You create these videos with such zeal that I cannot see you ever wanting to seriously give this up. I will keep my fingers crossed that you will make it past this disenchanting moment and go back to creating more video content. Thank you for all the good times Spud...

[@jrg_2777]

Learnt a lot from your videos. Helped me navigate the DCS world. Always comes a time to reset. Good luck.

[@Timboslicce]

Get the frustration out. Then get back to work homie. You do great work and everyone definitely appreciates it. Keep doing what you’re doing man we love you

[@staceywebb5415]

Don't quit, because us novelties need someone like you to guide us to make us professionals not just on DCS but also in the real world I thank you for this type of training you and many others are😁🤠 do credit for this

[@hoot999]

Many thanks for your huge effort and sharing your knowledge with others! There are always ups and downs in everything, be it the best activity all over the world. And haters gonna hate, there are always such losers. I know, easy to say. In the end you are the only person knowing the price and the only person to decide. I just want to say it would be a giant loss not to have you here with all your passion. Please let us know if there is any support we can offer that could help. And again: thank you for all your time, involvement, passion and effort!

[@eriklacey710]

You do you. If you need to check out for a while, do it. Most us will be here. I have enjoyed your content for years. Your tutorials are awesome. If you decide to go, I wish you the best in your other career and in life in general. You don't get time back, if it isn't fulfilling any more, I say follow your heart with what you want to do with your time. I will miss your content, but I will be happy for you.

[@TravisPrybylski]

you don't owe us anything; Focus on your career, and hopefully we can see you more in the future. We all have lives to live. Thanks for all your help getting me and many others started in this community. Take care, and best wishes.

[@sergeantairborne]

I don't comment much on YT but I wanted to let you know how much I love your content and I will miss it. I know there are a bunch of idiots in life who can bring you down but focus on guys like me. I am a military vet and your videos are among the few I can stand to watch. I love your professionalism and attention to detail.

[@dimitriskatsoulis4834]

Sometimes the best solution comes when you step back for a while! Do it and we will be there for you! I can fully relate with your thoughts! Best of luck on anything you will do! It would have been an honor to have our paths crossed if you ever make it to Greece!

[@Viper1Zero]

Hey brother, at the end of the day you have to take care of you first. Always. The haters are garbage that should always be ignored like the trash on the side of the street. Make what YOU love, always. Your following has joined you to watch what you love to make. I hope you keep the channel, but a healthy break can always help recover the spark to create more videos. Regardless, thank you for all your hard work in your videos. They’ve been a blast to watch.

[@ABitBrit-Twitch]

haters are just people trying to get to u and get ur attention because they don’t get it from anywhere else . anyway love the stuff u post ur one of the greats of dcs in my eyes thanks for being a good creator :)

[@djackman1968]

Thanks for everything you have done for the community Spud. I learned a lot from your videos and I enjoyed all of your content. Thanks man, and I hope you return later after a nice break. I have taken a cpl of long period breaks myself to reignite my fire.

[@thexpatplanner]

Whether you decide to continue or not, Spud, I thoroughly enjoy watching your videos 👍🏻 I love relaxing after work to a DCS mission.

[@shaunlavoie6183]

1. Don't try to placate the haters in any way shape or form. 2. You gotta do what's right for you man. Maybe scale back a little bit? Fewer uploads? Wherever you decide, I fully support it man. 100% you gotta do what you feel is right. I was going to get a private lesson one day, maybe you could keep in the online DCS community in that way? I've loved your videos so far, I got the F18 and DCS because of you. Your tutorials are fantastic. Screw the haters and negativity!!!

[@HEATER_]

Thanks for all the help over the years man. I even flew with you once. That was awesome! Whatever you decide to do... I will follow. That quote at the end was true. Step back, take a break, re-evaluate, re-invent yourself, then perhaps dive back in when you feel the time is right. Just remember, you might be in the Hell Week phase of BUDS. I wouldn't want you to ring that bell.

[@andrewchr]

I feel you man. Life can be hectic. There are modules and maps that I purchased and didn't manage to fly yet. I have a kid coming up and my job is getting tougher requiring a lot more man hours. I sometime wish that I was a teenager again without a job and responsibilities.

[@jhglaze]

There soooo many aspects to the fight sim activity if you like teaching that might be a way to go find another aspect of this flight sim business and do that for a while take the pressure off making the massive videos for a minute. I’m already a member following you on Patreon waiting for reply . Good luck, Fair winds and following seas with whatever you choose to do.

[@jhglaze]

Hey Spud, when do u read the posts on Patreon? I sent you my background and experience in flight simulation I am a willing student who would like tutorage. I’m willing to pay for your knowledge and experience. Looking forward to a response.

[@owouwu3152]

Your vids helped me when I was new to DCS in 2018 So thank you for your effort I switched to BMS after got tired of AI, Sandbox, Simplified aspect of the game and havent played DCS for years but These are just video games for hobby. You can come back when u feel like to play the game again Anyway good luck with your life sry for terrible English

[@Osvaldo_Oz]

Don't take a permanent decision for a temporary problem, just take a break man! We love you and will be here waiting if/when you decide to return.

[@chrisvanegmond3157]

Hey mate, what you said makes complete sense and I am sorry you feel this way. But don't feel like you owe this community anything; you've given so much already. I'm pretty sure the first videos I'd seen that got me interested in looking into what DCS was, were some of your high production quality videos, so I'm very grateful to you for that. You should do whatever is best for you. I'd be sad to miss your videos but I completely get it.

[@Dazeski]

Look where DCS was 10 years ago, and consider where it could be in another 10 years. All industries/genres go through what might feel like lulls. But the snowball keeps rolling and you can continue to become a larger part of that. However, if you personally are feeling burnt out and don't want to continue, then there will be absolutely nothing wrong with making the decision to stop. We will support you either way!

[@jhglaze]

Please don’t quit, block out the negativity tune that stuff out. I just started following you on Patreon. I tried posting a message to you not sure you got it . Anyway I’m struggling trying to learn everything on my own because most talented people don’t have time for strugglers, but it’s all good I know if I keep at it will learn what I want to know. I’m not giving up neither should you.

[@kellyhall8104]

Spud It would suck not having new videos from you. I get it though. I would like to thank you. I am a 50 something gamer just getting into DCS and have learned so much from your videos. I hope you find next passion or better yet return to this one. I wish you the best. " As always "