Is DCS too HARD?

[@dinglemckringleberry9429]

This isn't a game... its a hobby. How else can I justify what I've spent on it.

[@g-locmedia]

I get you 100%

[@CueDriver]

So, true.

[@hazardpay8560]

I'm at roughly 7,500.00 USD so far :/ (high end PC, high end VR headset, high end HOTAS - 500.00 on planes) The key to staying alive is to 'nickel and dime' it.... buy one lil piece this check, then another on the next... that way your wife might miss the forest for all the trees I mean maybe my 1080GTX was failing or maybe I was just seeing minor frame drops ... but the only way to fix it was definitely to drop 4 grand on a new PC.....I had no choice!

[@g-locmedia]

@@hazardpay8560 it’s amazing how much you end up spending. But my rule is that if I’m passionate about it I don’t mind blowing my money on it. Sounds like you’ve got a great setup mate.

[@hazardpay8560]

@@g-locmedia yeah and I'm STILL looking to spend more. XD

[@amygdala9857]

its almost like its a simulator

[@kyriakos2706]

You're right. It is

[@Error-33]

Indeed. I guess if we want the full answer its a training/learning level simulator (edit: but not the ones that militaries primarily use, i heard those are military level simulators and learning level sims are quite close to reality but lack some realism on some parts so basically a realistic game i guess) But you could call that a game thats also close to a simulator anyways so im just giving nerdy info for no reason i guess

[@stephendecatur189]

funniest thing I've heard all week

[@19Clutch69]

Its a game...with just button smasholgy..

[@amygdala9857]

@@qettesh6692 i was being sarcastic, durr its a sim, also personally i dont like the idea of an inbuilt training programme, have some one teach you

[@CueDriver]

You forgot that DCS allows you to adjust your levels of flight skill. You can grow with it. But when you go online that's when you get the book thrown at you. Also there's the mission editor that allows you to create your own training missions to help you learn. The sim offers so many way for you to learn. I feel that this is one of the most crucial part of this this sim that get over looked. I have been playing this one since the LOMAC days way before the high fidelity and clickable cockpits. I have watched the evolution of this sim and why it is still to this day is the best flight sim I own. I own about 90% of the aircraft for this sim. I started with a CH Product stick with a dial throttle right up through Saitek controllers, now into a Virpil HOTAS setup and VR. So yes does DCS have a learning curve. Yes it does. But like my friend said after flying his first successful mission on his own without helping him. He stated that he felt like he actually accomplished something. I hope this information helps.

[@g-locmedia]

I love this perspective. And yes one of the great things DCS does Is give that feeling of accomplishment.

[@g-locmedia]

Yea online can be brutal.

[@Jellybeantiger]

No you can't,it's impossible for me to get into. Setting up the controls is too daunting.

[@Because_Reasons]

I owned DCS and a few modules for 10 years before I finally decided to buckle down and learn it properly. 2 weeks later, 2h each day I finally was able to cold-start and take off my F14, as well as understand the AtoA missiles. It was an INCREDIBLE feeling.

[@WilliamBrothers]

I did the same this last summer. I learned the hell out of the pilot and rio and I feel so good having mastered them

[@g-locmedia]

I still haven't learn through the full cold start procedure in the F-18. So many steps!

[@79SPAS]

@@g-locmedia wait till you want to start the A10C.

[@79SPAS]

@@g-locmedia Or the Mi 8

[@siplt]

yesterday i decided to learn the f-5 and was able to do a cold start and shot someone down with guns and am now able to fly pretty well

[@nemisis_wolf]

This Simulator is used by many real life airforces around the world and they do communicate with Eagle Dynamics to add specific things into the sim to help train their pilots.

[@rhysgoodman7628]

Yep - DCS is just the public domain of what ED does. They make tailored sims for air forces around the world, but many simply use DCS. I’ve seen A-10 and M2000 pilots in training flying on DCS

[@CueDriver]

Exactly. That is there main goal is and why they get permission to make it available to the civilian market. This is also why we don't have the most current aircraft. They wait till a model is out of service. This has been the main reason behind the delay of the Black Shark 3 update. They were working on it and ordered to halt. Just like when the Ukraine map was part of the Caucasus map. After the separation they erased all detail of it but the land mass. Then moved to the east into the Georgia area of the map. Where the map for the Black Shark originally came with before they merged all of it.

[@taylorc2542]

Since they are Russian I wonder if they'll be sanctioned.

[@samicolgecen4027]

Really? So the modules are accurate?? Realistic flight models?

[@CueDriver]

@@samicolgecen4027 they might need some tweaks here and there. But they are very close to the real thing. CasmoTV was an actual Apache pilot and CPG. I have learned a lot from him. You have to do your research. You will find people that have flown the real plane and give honest input. I love the Gazelle. Found a video where they were interviewing a Gazelle A model pilot and went into detail on how to set the axis tuning to make it like how the real helo flies. What I difference it made. Dcs will always make adjustments as time goes by.

[@largamau]

I did not know DCS until I found a random video recommendation from Growling Sidewinder. I didnt have joysticks or camera trackers. So I hoped on and flew the SU-25. Then I got bored with it and got the F-18 and there was this KZbinr who plays DCS using an XBOX Controller. It took me a week to learn how to actually fly another week to know the instruments and weapons systems and finally I stayed with the A-10C II flying it using an XBOX controller and finished many campaigns.

[@g-locmedia]

Growling Sidewinder is an amazing channel.

[@darklanov]

I have been playing DCS for about 8 months now. I started with the F5 and now the F-18. As someone who comes from Ace Combat 7 with no idea about aviation, I have always had an itch to go blow some shit up and skip basic flight stuff. But that is not the way to go if one wants to be a good DCS pilot. So far I have learned how to operate the jet and how to fly and land but I'm struggling to learn BFM and BVR. Unfortunately, none of my gamer buddies with whom I play usually want to join me in DCS and so far I had to fly alone

[@g-locmedia]

It’s a long process and I too am still right in the middle of it. The satisfaction and feeling of learning is what Keeps me coming back. Where are you based?

[@darklanov]

Tunisia, North Africa

[@m2k530]

I have also the same problem and yeah it is even harder if you have no friend to fly with, I know there are servers in which you can find people but it's not the same when you play with someone that you know for years..

[@darklanov]

Indeed, playing with a close friend with whom you have chemistry and a long history is not like playing with a complete stranger. Some MMOs are inherently social where it easier to make friends, such as World of Warcraft. The friends I made in WoW became IRL friends. DCS is different, but it has an amazing community, perhaps the friendliest and least toxic community I have seen.

[@g-locmedia]

@@darklanov I'd love to see DCS make more of an effort to make multiplayer a little bit more accessible to new players. I know they have the training servers but It can still be a little intimidating for new players.

[@Trve_Kvlt]

Something I always tell newcomers to DCS is that you DO NOT need the best of the best hardware. I started playing DCS with a Logitech X-52, which I upgraded to the X-56 after about a year or so. With just the X-56 and actually taking the time to learn the aircraft I was flying, I would say I was just as effective as most other people. Then I got TrackIR and yaw pedals and my performance and effectiveness did get better. All of that equipment together was under $500 at the time, and I've still made only small upgrades over the years. You don't need to Winwing, you don't need to get the Warthog HOTAS or anything like that to start playing DCS. You just have to want to play DCS and have a willingness to take the time to learn, that's all you need.

[@hazardpay8560]

I started with the Walmart 30 dollar logitech 3d extreme Joystick, and then needed a 'proper' throttle so I bought a TWCS... cheapy plastic but totally serviceable. Now that being said... it can ramp up dramatically (And it HAS here at my house... don't show your wife the receipts!)

[@SukhoiWolf]

Just recently found your channel. Love the content and perspective you have on things! Earned a sub! Keep it up!

[@g-locmedia]

Thank you. Wow this is one of my very first videos.

[@klaus314]

that fly is a paid actor

[@g-locmedia]

Far too good at his job

[@hazardpay8560]

I first downloaded DCS in 2014.. played it for 5 minutes, and decided that I would need to do some research. Shut it down, and promptly forgot about it. I kept getting sidetracked into some other games and kept telling myself I'd eventually get around to learning the game. Then when I heard that DCS was getting the AH-64 in high fidelity, I decided to look into the game again last year. I dusted off the same Logitech 3d Extreme joystick I used back in 2014.. then realized I'd need a collective so I grabbed a Thrustmaster TWCS - cheap plastic but totally serviceable. In the intervening years I had also acquired a first gen Oculus Rift... now we're cookin' with gas! And i sat down and applied myself to learning to fly the Apache. I got pretty solid with it. (Using the VR headset as the HMD with the 30mm gun is utterly satisfying) But as fun as the Apache is... boy it sure took a LONG time to get to the targets... I bet a Warthog can get there a lil faster, and bring MORE 30mm bang-bang... And it did get there faster... but only slightly faster. I hear the Viper's pretty solid for Air-To-Ground... and it can get there a WHOLE LOT FASTER So I picked it up and got good with it. BUT it came with a whole new issue... people on my server were starting to expect me to provide air cover... fight other fighters! Well crud. Now I'm watching Growling Sidewinder's channel and learning the difference between a 1 and 2 circle fight And Bogey Dope's channel is talking me through Air-to-Air refueling And now I'm running into yet another issue. Seeing those tiny dots before they saw me wasn't working so well with the ancient Oculus first gen.... I guess I better splurge on a newer headset for more resolution (Could've went the Track IR route but I got hooked on the 1:1 look-around with the HMD in the Apache, A10, and F16) But if get a new headset, I'm gonna need a better cpu/gpu to run it and a better HOTAS And proper seating and bits and bobs to arrange the HOTAS around my Virtual Cockpit. And now my Tomcat friend tells me to try the Tomcat, (and I talk him into a Viper) We both try the Hornet - He goes right back to the Viper, I go right back to the Tomcat... (Sorry Bug drivers, we don't like it) Then the dudes from Eastern Europe on our server say I need to try the Blackshark And then we're all on a Warbird kick... I grab a P-51, a BF-109, and a Mosquito! Damnit....I need MORE planes ... holy sh!t.... where'd all my money go? Yeah... you can get sucked in, and you can blow a LOT of money. But you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a HUGE sense of accomplishment from learning how these awesome machines work. And you meet a lot of really great people!

[@g-locmedia]

Loving your DCS story man!

[@g-locmedia]

If there’s one thing I love it’s the passion from the DCS and flight sim community.

[@sporkmonster]

I love this game so much, it’s great fun once you learn it. Only takes a few days to learn an aircraft, procedures take a lot more than that but once you learn an aircrafts it becomes very very very fun.

[@gabzsy4924]

My biggest issue is not with the difficulty and realism of the simulation itself, that's to be expected and commended, but I do have issues with the entry barrier that even the menus, keybinds and tutorials offer. If I fail a tutorial mission and need to restard, I need go wait for the huge load times, forced tutorials with voicovers and locked plane features, even if I know exactly what I need to do and how already. Yes, I'm aware there's a keybind to unlock your plane and be able to freefly, but I actually had to look for it, hidden in a menu, after many, many failrd attempts of landing in a carrier.

[@g-locmedia]

Yea they could do with spending a bit of time making the transition of learning for the beginner much smoother.

[@flaviusaetius8358]

I spent 0$ on dcs. I fly the a-4 skyhawk with an xbox controller and i really enjoy it. Landing on an aircraft carrier with bad weather is a joy

[@Chaos8282]

I own the F-14, F-15, F-16, F-18, AV8, A-10A/C, Mig-29, Su-27/33 and the AH-64. I can fly and operate most systems and weapons on all of them. Started in the Lo-Fi F-15 with just a T16000 stick. Now I have a custom throttle for my right hand, TrackIR and pedals.

[@g-locmedia]

Track IR makes a big difference. Wow you've got your head around quite a few modules.

[@morganbove6759]

AH64 is a pain in the a** to fly

[@DerVagabundli]

Just learning how to start the Huey and get it off the ground and back without crashing was such a rewarding and thrilling experience!

[@g-locmedia]

Yea. I too, get a great deal of satisfaction from learning in this sim

[@brandonchappell1535]

grim reapers is the best channel for me to learn cuz he just gives you all the info quickly, hate watching a 40min video for 1 tiny bit of info on one thing !! DCS truly is the most rewarding experience when you complete that first full mission (and even dump it on the boat), you will not wipe away the grin !

[@g-locmedia]

100% Grim Reapers are awesome

[@neovo903]

GR is very hit and miss when it comes to accuracy

[@brandonchappell1535]

@@neovo903 its generally accurate at the time, but some times when the game updates/changes, they make update videos instead of remaking whole vid, which is understandable (and they usually change title to outdated).

[@neovo903]

@@brandonchappell1535 Not even then, Cap just gives out incorrect info

[@bikerguy9192]

If you're lucky enough to own a system that can use a VR setup and have a headset, then DCS truly comes into its own and I've found that extra spatial awareness has been they key for more delicate flying operations like air to air refueling etc.

[@g-locmedia]

My computer just won’t run anything more than a meta quest 2 and it’s just not enough resolution for me.

[@cre8ive34]

The high fidelity modules are hard, but when you master a particular airframe, it's very rewarding. I played DCS over a decade ago with the standalone A-10 game. This was before youtube was a big thing and DCS was famous for not handholding or providing instructions. Back then I didn't have the patience to read to figure it all out and quit. Now many years later, and with the availibility of youtube tutorials, it has become much more accessible. Hard, but rewarding.

[@Foxdie88]

Agreed. Wanted to learn the a10c so I picked that and I guess it's one of the hardest to learn. But I did the work and it made all the other mods just as easy to learn.

[@g-locmedia]

Once you get your head around one plane it does make it easier to learn others. I'm with you on that!

[@xJAWAx]

It was definitely frustrating starting out, but by hour 10 I was really getting the hang of it. You don't have to put that much time in before it's really clicking. I'm still always learning but capable enough now. Hours of KZbin helped as well.

[@g-locmedia]

I think with a game like DCS there’s always something new to learn or develop.

[@MrPinkster1]

The whole button scenario, I upgraded to a VR setup just the Oculus Rift, I have been "playing" DCS for 14 years or so! VR ended up being the game changer here, you can omit all of the button boxes just get a nice HOTAS stick and away you go! Awesome!

[@g-locmedia]

Do you find you have enough buttons to bind all your controls with just the hotas?

[@MrPinkster1]

@G-LOC MEDIA you can definitely make a good stab at programming 99% of the buttons that you require. Also what really helps is "voiceattack" software, for those obscure button presses/menu/radio comms I use all voice commands now. Which throttle stick are you using?

[@g-locmedia]

@@MrPinkster1 I have the TM Warthog

[@MrPinkster1]

@G-LOC MEDIA excellent, I'm looking at upgrading myself. Still have the old x52 Pro. Definitely look at the voice attack software also

[@g-locmedia]

@@MrPinkster1 I will definitely have a look at that.

[@Mepo65mc..]

I'm 14 and my first module is the A-10C, extremely hard, I have 50-60 hours in game and have learnt most of information about the aircraft but yeah it just takes determination and enjoyment in learning the aircraft, I chose the hardest aircraft to learn in the game, and have learnt most things needed in around 2 weeks, its all possible fc3 or full fidelity you just need to pick an aircraft you like. (Also when I first bought the module I didn't have a clue what to do and everything was really hard, but then a few months later I hopped into the Frogfoot, and that really helped a lot, not even learning the whole thing, and jesus christ it made learning the A-10C a ton easier.)

[@quackgarage9551]

It's amazing to see where we are at and how much flight sims have evolved in the recent years, we're finally able to experience full fidelity not only system-wise but also when it comes to the flight models. I remember as if it was yesterday when I played Flanker and FS98 for the first time, I lived with aviation all my life and was finally able to pursue my major in aviation and a pilot career. I'm around since the LOMAC days back in 2004-2006 and even managed to win a pretty decent competition that was organized by the HyperLobby guys in 2006 where the prize was a FC 2 copy, those were THE days. BTW, i'm still using my X52 PRO, as good as new. Nowadays my favorite is by far the F-14 and if I merely want kills (and staying competitive) I just pick the J-11/SU-27. But since this is not CS, LoL or some other crap and it's all about having fun and a good experience, I end up using the F-14, M2000 and F-5 most of the times. Love to shoot down some unsuspecting F-16's with my F-5. DCS does have a learning curve and if you don't have the basics when it comes to flying it will be much harder, but it's totally worth it.

[@g-locmedia]

I’m with you on that. It blows my mind every time I get in the sim. Imagine where it will be in the next 5-10ths.

[@AndyAttrition]

My advice would be to enter a squadron. There are squadrons for a lot of languages and expierience levels. And having someone with you, teaching you the plane, teaching you procedures and tactics really improves the rate of progress. The DCS community is generall very beginner friendly and there should be place for everyone.

[@Fred-rv2tu]

Been flying DCS in VR for about six years now. I remember when I first started and 😂 spent two hours watching you tube videos to figure out how to work the F-15 radar.

[@g-locmedia]

Lol. I reckon I’ve spent longer than two hrs and still haven’t fully figured it out.

[@citizenjags1309]

Bro! You just represented about 90% of us with this video. I have all the modules and tons of equipment, BUT, I never put pressure on myself to learn them all at once. I started with the simple FC3 modules witch were easy to learn, I already flew Flight Sims, so flying them came to me as no problem, and then moved on to the Mig-15 for a month , Mig-19 for 2 months, Mig-21 for 2 months, MI-8 for 3( Love Helo's) ,I imagine the more fighters to big more complicated and much longer to learn, a slow process of learning of course, BUT very very fulfilling. Thx for your honesty, I feel your PAIN and JOY...lol

[@g-locmedia]

Lol. Yea DCS can feel a bit frustrating at time but what you get back when you put the time in is so satisfying.

[@nickgrey4136]

Dear Sir, many thanks for your video. Beautifully produced.... Kind regards, Nick

[@g-locmedia]

Thank you Nick for your kind comments.

[@rizla7708]

Enjoyed the video, felt inspired. Thank you 👍

[@g-locmedia]

That’s mean a lot thank you so much for sharing.

[@deathsicon]

I started in the tf51 on keyboard/mouse for a few days, then got into the f16 and learned some of the systems and dumb bombs until I got a hotas setup, then learned some basic A/A stuff before beginning my upgrade path, I will say once you learn one jet others start getting easier, the f18 came fairly easy because I already knew how most the weapons would behave, knew the concepts of radar and how it works, and so on learn one craft fully and the others come quickly from there

[@DerekSpeareDSD]

DSD has been making button boxes longer than anyone! I've been flight simming for almost 4 decades. I recommend to take a piece of DCS at a time...if you try to eat the whole thing, you won't. Learn one piece at a time. Oh, and use vr!

[@g-locmedia]

VR. Now that’s a whole new topic. I have some controversial thoughts on that one. Will be creating a video soon on it.

[@falcon88h]

@@g-locmedia Controversial it is...... indeed. but...!! when it comes to pure VISUAL EXPERIENCE..... (with a good set...)....

[@Hustler9g]

HOT TIP: Fastest way to learn dcs and it's modules is to join a popular discord and ask questions. Ask if someone knows the thing you want to do and ask them for a quick one on one. Everyone is a massive plane nerd and wants an outlet to share their knowledge. That being said have something specific you want because saying "can someone teach me the hornet" is gonna get a lot of crickets bc that's a huge ask and simply isn't possible at once.

[@hotjonmw90]

when I first started the mil sim group I was in had a 30 min ground school before training flights in discord and check rides for skill level before you are mission ready

[@go_dzilla5921]

Chill bro, have fun😁 If you ever get tired practicing there's tons more stuff to do in DCS World. If you're an artistic person you can always create skins. There's a list of user request skins on the DCS forum. If you're more of a strategic person you can always create missions and campaigns for the community. If you can code, you can always work on mods or create new lua script files. And of course you can always create various kinds of you tube videos from tutorials to showcasing to cinematics to just plain funny ones. There's lots of stuff you can do other than flying.

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

It took me a month just to learn the editor and all the ways to use it. If you don't even fly, you can still use it as a sandbox and create unlimited missions as complex as you can muster. That's just the editor. Then you start adding in modules like the Carrier and Combined Arms and the game just took another huge leap. With study level modules like the F-16C, F-18C, the Apache, the Huey...anything that you scratch the surface and it's all there will lose your attention fast. Something that you have to peel one layer after another and you will still never fully get is what drives most of us and keeps us plowing deeper. You want to cruise around Hawaii in an Icon A5 and enjoy the beautiful sunset? Get MSFS. You want to know why you take a AIM-120D AMRAAM instead of an AIM-7M or the difference tactically between the AIM-9M and the AIM-9X, or the 1 circle dogfight vs the 2 circle, or how to use the TACAN system, or the targeting pod vs the weapon mounted cameras...you go to DCS. DCS is about combat and the weapons used. It's not a fluffy eye candy dispenser. The maps and terrain are modeled well enough to provide a sense of realism in combat. And that's the main difference

[@g-locmedia]

The editor is a whole best in itself

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

@@g-locmedia Yes it is. I remember getting my first trigger set up and when it worked I was so jacked up. Something so simple yet so gratifying. That's why DCS is superior to any other sim. Well, perhaps Arma III but that's an argument for another day!

[@Jellybeantiger]

I bought this game the a10 module and fc 3,a long long time ago but have hardly put any time because trying to remember all the buttons is ridiculous.

[@gh8079mu-ur]

Adding in VR adds another layer of difficulty as well. I knew I wouldnt be able to proceed without at least a HOTAS setup along with pedals as fumbling on the keyboard and peeking under head set is a no go, VR or not. Need many many buttons. Highly recommend F5e as starter plane just to get used to basic jet flight and instrumentation. Once I could navigate and land in one piece I checked out, as the weapons are ancient and not much fun at all. Learned instrument flying, tacan, pre fly by wire and primitive radar. Put her in hangar bought a Hind, an A10, and an F16. But fly the Su25T the most.

[@shaneduc]

Flaming Clifts 3 was the best mod. I have ever gotten. Use RedK0d clickable cockpit mod and I was set. 6 airframes for 50% off that's $25 usd for my first buy you can't go wrong. And I have found that most free airframe mods use FC3 as there basics. I also say take your time. With FC3 there is LOTs to do and learn.

[@g-locmedia]

Yea, flaming cliffs is a superb module and for the price im you can’t beat it as a beginner and seasoned pilot.

[@shaneduc]

@@g-locmedia I don't see much FC3 and the 50% off your first buy from DCS web site promoted. That's I feel is one of the best buys ED has that go far and byond there sales they have. And yes DCS is hard and I'm fine with it.

[@Jellybeantiger]

Too many controls,a hard pass

[@bigcomputerman4482]

underated, keep grinding bro you're gonna be so popular one day ❤

[@g-locmedia]

Thank you so much mate.

[@abdulmismail]

I first bough the Harrier and MiG-21. My first HOTAS was the X56. After several attempts of taking off and throttling up, I nosed dived and kept crashing. Couldn't figure out why so I just left it for 4 months. After having a chat with someone online, I learned that there's not an automatic binding as with other games/sims and with DCS, you have to assign and remove dual-binding which infuriated me. I now have the Thurstmaster Warthog with the F-16 and F/A-18 stick as well as TPR pedals. I also made the mistake of literally buying all modules. I don't have time because of work/studies/flying so I tned only to do instant action but flying in VR is one hell of an experience. I only have an Oculus Rift S but would love to get a Varjo Aero. For those who don't want to use VR, you definitely need something like TrackIR 5.

[@g-locmedia]

The X56 is a great entry HOTAS but the Wartgog is next level. I’ve always fancied the F18 stick for mine.

[@ascherlafayette8572]

This is a simulator for enthusiasts. Anyone who is turned away by the difficulty probably isn't in the right place.

[@g-locmedia]

Yes, I agree somewhat with that. But I'd love to see the community grow more by DCS easing newbies in more gently. But you are right, you have to be in the right mindset before you even turn the sim on.

[@davewills6121]

Common sense advice, but getting the basics under your belt can be a bit of a slog, fun slog, but deep learning. Its solid advice to 'choose the plane you want to learn', its the same mentality with exercise, choose a sport/exercise/piece of equipment you enjoy, you'll get the most out of it, and stick with it. Kudos

[@sasquatchycowboy5585]

You could always start off the way all us old time players did. Get the FC3 pack and learn to fly and fight in those. Then move into a full fidelity module.

[@g-locmedia]

Flaming cliffs 3 is still one of the best. Low fidelity or not. I love it.

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

I don't even have DCS yet and am researching to find what gear I want, including the whole VR vs track IR debate, etc.. One thing I have found from those that have done it both ways is they say some things are easier to perform in VR, such as aerial refueling. Also they say some aspects of dogfighting they found easier as well. That said it is typical that the resolution is poorer so keeping sight of a bandit can be harder at times. I'm sure if your gear will run VR at a high enough resolution and frame rate for DCS then VR is probably a better way to go for most IF you can afford all that. I was just watching a video earlier though with the guys from Grim Reapers and was very surprised to find that their rigs were actually quite basic. Only one of them was using VR and only one other was even using multiple monitors and he didn't even bother going into his monitor specs or anything, never even mentioned them. I don't know how old that video was but still.... Another one that surprised me was Spud Knocker. His set up is very basic with a single standard monitor, maybe 27"-32" and his old X56 stick and throttle, a keyboard and mouse. No additional panels or monitors. I couldn't see his pedals and again I'm not sure this is his current rig. The fact that he flies as well as he does while making videos with that system is very encouraging for us to get started without all the toys.

[@g-locmedia]

That's the great thing about flight sim. You can have a great time with some very basic stuff. Having tones of gear definitely doesn't make you a better pilot but it certainly ups the immersion factor.

[@comradesascha3734]

The 1 module at a time is a big problem in DCS, i meet so many who are frustrated at their skill level, and when i ask them they are trying to fly between 4-8 modules all at once, not only does it make it hard, think of the amount of money per module they payed to not get the most out of them.

[@g-locmedia]

Yea I think sticking to the one module will actually speed up your learning in the long run.

[@comradesascha3734]

@@g-locmedia Not to mention when you spend so much time in it, if you have to come back to DCS after a while its easier to remember, I have notebooks for the Hind and F-16 so when i come back i can be back to flying in a day or two

[@revdaddy6934]

I remember giving this a try last year and being so confused when I started it, and given the amount of space it took up I saw it as not worth it and deleted it. But my buddies finally talked me into redownloading it and giving it another go, this time trying with a Xbox controller. Much much easier and fun. I still need to invest in a good head tracker, but so far I have everything down the way I need to. And the best thing is I'm learning aircraft alongside my homies, because they decided to try and learn the Flaming Cliffs DLC with me. So we're all equally inept

[@g-locmedia]

So you are playing this with an Xbox controller?

[@revdaddy6934]

@@g-locmedia Yep. Works pretty well

[@canconservative8976]

Planes actually use Joysticks, throttle quadrant and rudder pedals... if you don't have those 3 then you are missing 90% of the simulation.

[@revdaddy6934]

@@canconservative8976 I can't afford them right now. Besides, controller works perfectly fine until I can afford them so I'm not a huge rush. Would be neat though

[@tanberjan]

@@revdaddy6934 I use VR with a gamepad and the touch controllers/keyboard for clicking in cockpit, works perfectly well. I don't have the space for all the accessories and they are quite expensive.

[@OLIV3R_YT]

Rumor has it there is also a Game mode somewhere in the settings ;)

[@g-locmedia]

Yes there is a game mode but I prefer to fly the full simulation. Can be easy to develop bad habits in game mode.

[@OLIV3R_YT]

@@g-locmedia true!

[@nutillion9334]

Yes, DCS is hard, but it's really all about practice and knowledge. I have dcs for around a year or so and I fly the FC3 aircraft and the F18. The FC3 aircraft was a great beginning. After feeling comfortable with them, I stuck with the F18. DCS is challenging but that also makes it fun. It was fun learning about how to use guns, missiles bombs, etc. and after a while, once I understood how to do everything, the game is VERY satisfying. Once you know how to do most things, it feels very rewarding and cool. The F18 is also a good aircraft to practice landings and learn how to land. It took me 2 tries to land the F16 when doing the free trial and it wasn't that hard. Some tips for begginers: either get the FC3 package (package with 7 different planes), or get the F-15 and/or the Su-33. Both very good planes to learn and start dcs with. After some time I suggest you choose a high fidelity module (plane/helicopter with interactive buttons and stuff like that). You don't need a hotas but it is better to have one. There are many models and you don't need the $1000 joysticks or VR sets. But nice video! The fly was funny

[@g-locmedia]

I still fly the FC3. Love the F15

[@nutillion9334]

@@g-locmedia Yes. It's an amazing plane

[@POLSKIKAJAK]

ive been into simming for about a year, flying full fidelity airlines on vatsim such as the pmdg 738,which for record i've learnt in a single day got into dcs straight away with the f16c, 28 hours of flight later and i know eveyrthing about the f16 and complete missions, the time i spent learning the f16 is arguably the best time ive had in a simulator, but hell, its damn complex

[@AdnAds]

I like that most the aircraft are on the same difficulty at learning them so you can learn what plane you want to fly like I would have chosen an easier plane than the f16 but since they’re all the same at learning it makes the game fair and fun since you choose what plane you want to fly not what’s easiest and there is not really a op plane it’s mainly whoever is the best at flying

[@stopthemadness398]

i fly everything and want more.. it wasn't hard for me to cause i love dcs and all the planes.. it is the ground unit i have a hard time learning

[@mikenunn8696]

I only have a x56 ATM with mountd and a full metal rudder control on the floor I play alot of cold war mig 19 or mig 15bis and ww2 fighters . I have a few newer su 33 and mirage jets . I honestly like flying thr mig 15 bis and mig19 along with ww2 are my fav cuz they're hard to fly. The mig15 bis and dora are some of the hardest planes to fly just as in fly ..goo to fast in the mig 15 u can no longer turn or turn to hard u get into a flat spin or u wing stall or worse stall the turbine . I think the early cold war modules are some of the most rewarding planes to fly and Don forget the mig21. I've been playing for about 3 months As for helos I recommend the mi8 cuz it's hard to land and the gezalle cuz it's hard to hover and use . Alot of ppl say the gazelle isn't realistic but that's how that thing Flys. I think j it'd only around 4000ilb . But they're all fun . I just like the older stuff and use them to take on the better jets like the f18c or f15 and f16. Honestly too many ppl useing those jets . The systems take tike to learn but flying them and landing is easy . Too many ppl useing f18c against mig23 ai or mig21. U won't learn much and it's not a challenge . U don't learn as much Anyways I recommend dcs cold war modules and ww2 ones personally . Less f16 and f18c spam It's very rewarding to take them on in a mig21 or mirage 2000c or even the mig19p .

[@g-locmedia]

My favourite plane from that era is the spot fire and P51.

[@Aizazell]

OK just, Subscribed!! So What are you using for monitors.....????? I'm looking at Samsung Ark, G9, or on some type of 3 curve monitor set up up. What would you recomend after running what you have?? I just built my system about 2 weeks ago. Asus z790 Maximus Hero motherboard, I9 13900K CPU, EVGA 1300W PSU, MSI Gaming TRIO GeForce 4090. Any advice would be helpful. thanks

[@pogo1140]

Fly the plane you love, yep, I chose the F-14, I'm a masochist. I use a CH Fighterstick that I've had since 2006/7 and a 2nd hand X56 throttle quadrant. I'm testing out DCS in VR with Quest 2 but the short battery life is a bit of an issue, I use 1/3 of the battery charge if I use the cold start option :( After a year, I'm still working on my carrier landings, though I can now reliably land the F-14 on any land base, even the WW2 era landing strips without crashing (bind the left and right wheel brakes and don't use the nose steering) or damaging the tail. I also don't stall in a knife fight anymore, even when flying against the Su-27 family or MiG-29

[@g-locmedia]

The F-14 is a great plane. Pretty difficult to fly for me. WOW that CH Stick has lasted you quite a while. The X56 is an old favorite of mine. I struggle with VR because of the lack of clarity in the distance. I tried a night carrier landing just last week in the F-18 for the first time, 5 attempts, still couldn't do it. lol. Feels like i'm trying to land on a postage stamp.

[@pogo1140]

@@g-locmedia lol, I know it's not real, but my ass clenches the closer I get to the wire.

[@Alessio654321]

Hey, trying to help, I’ve just seen a comment talking about how u need 5W to the Quest2 from pc for it to maintain charge, and he done that with a pci usb card and an official link cable instead of an off brand one, I’ll link the source if I find it again

[@ligmasack9038]

@@g-locmedia VR is the only way to fly in DCS, IL-2, MSFS2020, etc. Depth perception is a must when landing, A2A Refueling, and even Dogfighting.

[@Protoforge11]

I no wana know the f-18 hand book inside and out

[@speedbird8326]

With your three-panel monitor setup, have you found a solution to displaying the HMD as you look left or right without rotating the entire image across the three panels ?

[@g-locmedia]

Are you talking about when I have track IR enabled?

[@speedbird8326]

@@g-locmedia Yes. Is there a way to move just the HMD display and not move the image on the three panels ?

[@g-locmedia]

@@speedbird8326 no I haven’t. At least I’m not aware of a way to do it.

[@speedbird8326]

@@g-locmedia ok thanks. If you take a look at this guys project he has an absolutely sensational setup but you can’t use the HMD. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2jGY2usicatsNk

[@dale3869]

You can use the HMDS to do such a thing if the aircraft systems allow. F-18 for example has this. Beyond that, its a sim and if you can't do it in reality, they don't model it in the sim.

[@Lochaby]

The fly in the thumbnail is hilarious. I see him IRL.

[@g-locmedia]

He’s a descent pilot

[@localbreadyboy401]

I'm learning multiple aircraft (F14, F18, F16, and A10) it's difficult but way more fun in my opinion

[@g-locmedia]

I envy you. I couldn’t do that. I have to stick to one at a time.

[@NLarsen1989]

I dont know what it is about this game. I've gone from playing MSFS2020 with an xbox controller to trying DCS then buying a HOTAS, desk mounts, track IR (ps3 mod) and most recently a 11" screen which I've attached two cougar mfds in front of to create a mini harrier/f18 ready cockpit on my desk which until now was basically for WFH and coding. I've also upgraded to 32gb ram and now tempted to upgrade from a 2060S to a 4080. I don't even have that much free time any more for games but DCS just hits different - this gives hobby level passion and indulgence. If DCS ever gets cancelled and there's no replacement there's going to be a whole bunch of us virtual fighter pilots just lost 🤣

[@g-locmedia]

Its the feeling of progression that gets me with any flight sim really.

[@Tome4kkkk]

I gave this video a thumbs up but I don't agree on the main points. Example 1. I've got hundreds of hours in DCS Ka-50 (the coaxial combat helicopter) and I'm considered a veteran. And yet I haven't completed a startup procedure from the top of my head even once! Example 2. You can pick up a Su-25T and start blasting ground targets using guided rockets and the display system in one evening without even learning to takeoff and land at all. Better yet, you can keep doing so for as long as you like playing non multiplayer missions. In both cases you can use full realism settings. See? The difficulty level is your choice. Second point: Stick to one module... when you intend to go in deep into mastering it. With the approach from the previous examples you can hop around and try different modules. For free!

[@g-locmedia]

It’s great to share your point of view. I think sharing that kind of stuff right or wrong it’s great for the community. Thanks for the like!

[@Tome4kkkk]

@@g-locmedia In a sense I do agree with you if a general approach is considered. I just proposed alternative approaches which have a high chance of providing easier entry for beginners. Then there's the beginner tier issue. There are beginners who easily identify topics they need to study. Then you have beginners who after a month in DCS don't quite grasp the concept of angle of attack and stall.

[@Tome4kkkk]

@@g-locmedia No to mention the yt algo favours comment activity ;)

[@er3bor323]

What piece of music is playing in the background? Good video, thanks!

[@g-locmedia]

It sure if the name. Think I got it on Artlist.

[@pauldanrich3919]

Check out Growling Sidewinder’s U-Tube channel. You can learn a lot from his entertaining videos. GS is also the go to air to air server. Make sure to DL Beta version of the sim. I went with F-16 eight months ago, stuck with that/nothing else since my primary interest is air to air combat (now daily on GS server). Can’t beat going against experienced players to learn, can’t get the same training with AI. GS and U-tubers like Bogey Dope will help you learn, just takes time and dedication, only true fighter jet enthusiasts get anywhere with this sim.

[@g-locmedia]

Love growling sidewinder!

[@billy8663]

Well said

[@joshuamoabi2783]

Great vid man. Needs some love ❤️❤️

[@g-locmedia]

Thanks Joshua. Do you play DCS?

[@charliekray8391]

Dude, that fly needs to be dealt with asap. lol

[@g-locmedia]

Tell me about it. He’s the best pilot between us.

[@Xenomorphine]

Honestly, if 'VTOL VR' just had a HOTAS option, instead of forcing the user to use the VR controllers, it would be ideal. It's depressing how there isn't really any middle HOTAS-compatible ground between DCS and dumbed down arcade fodder, like 'Ace Combat'. I keep getting tempted by DCS, because it's the only thing close to a modern 'EF-2000', but every time I look up tutorial videos on it, it's clear that it requires five billion commands done in a specific order, just for some basic checks and taking off, which is utterly ridiculous. I love military aviation, but I have no desire (or the necessary time) to learn the degree-level intricacies of canopy hydraulics and battery management. 'EF-2000' got that balance between realism, functionality and (most importantly) accessibility just right, IMO. Have hopes for 'Falcon 5', as that not only will include the F-35, but will allegedly make an effort to be accessible for players new to it.

[@Xilophonenumber]

Hey ! Great vidéo, very helpful thanks ! What is the music in the background ?

[@g-locmedia]

It's a track from artlist. I'll try and find out for you

[@Xilophonenumber]

@@g-locmedia Thanks ! That would be very nice :)

[@andresilvasophisma]

You just neet a good steck to deal with those phesics.

[@g-locmedia]

love the physics in DCS.

[@theflyinggasmask]

The biggest tip i have for people wanting to get into DCS is DON'T buy the Hornet or F-16 and jump straight into it. Start of learning the free SU-25T, then moving on to Flaming Cliffs. The F-15C is great for teaching you how a radar works, what RWR's do and how to use those in air to air combat. The Free Frogfoot is such a capable ground attacker and can teach you how most ground weapons work. Once you've learned the basics of flight and fight with those you'll be ready for full fidelity modules.

[@g-locmedia]

Thanks for you insight. Always great to hear the varying opinions and it’s great for newcomers trying to get a handle on the sim.

[@pspicer777]

Yes. But that is a good thing. It is like any other hobby .. you can go lite or all in. Unlike other 'games', it has depth that keeps your interest pretty much forever. Again, a good thing.

[@g-locmedia]

Totally agree.

[@dishdoggiegaming7254]

Good Advise and I will add this. We all are different and we all think differently. So we will all enter into DCS differently. I Thought I would Learn to fly jets and to this day I have learned to fly 0 jets. I started out in the P-51 like a child playing WWII pew pew pew I almost quit DCS this was the first plane I learned to fly and it killed me every day but I fell in love with it. What I did not expect WAS the next thing. I moved to and still fly 99% of the time now. The Uh-1h Huey. Like a drug needle in my arm I again learned to let it kill me everyday. Lol I'm much better now. Lol I Fly the Huey like a pro (in my mind) Point is I never thought I would end up here. I never thought of the Huey when I started. It was on sale one day and I bought it on a whim for no reason. It just sat there as I jumped around trying this and that. Then with my VR on I got in the Huey one day. watched Matt Wagner lesson on how to land it from a flying start and started killing myself everyday for a year or however long it took for my brain to understand everything that was going on. Enjoy killing yourself my brain don't work like yours so you may only spend 3 months killing yourself. Have fun. You will EARN your WINGS.

[@g-locmedia]

Love your DCS story and how you got in to it.

[@pnksmigge5324]

I'm 3 weeks, 50 hours in, I can cold start and take off, sometimes land, sometimes even well. That's it. Nuff said.

[@g-locmedia]

Cold starts are something I have given up on. I applaud you in your effort to master them. Is that in the F-18?

[@pnksmigge5324]

@@g-locmedia Jup, I somehow got in my head to learn everything proper... but it's slow and I don't think it's very effective :)

[@davidjames7382]

It's not ...just takes time and training. I found a great bunch of fliers in the Squadron I am in. They have a good time, offer tech support and advice. Teach you without ridicule. Good bunch of people. Only thing is right now, my complete gaming system was stolen in a burglary about 3 weeks ago. Lost everything

[@g-locmedia]

Yea if you can find good people it makes the experience so much better. Sorry to hear about your stuff getting stolen. Hope you get back up and running soon.

[@maskajon]

I can't even get the engine started. Gave up. Someone bring back Fighter Ace. pls

[@g-locmedia]

You just need to persevere mate. Don’t give up. You can use auto start function.

[@Gabriel4Drummer]

Good words :)

[@g-locmedia]

Thank you @gabriel4Drummer

[@MKRocker2012]

Tbh if you think DCS is too hard but you don't wanna quit, just get the Jeff. Puts the entire game on easy mode.

[@darktears9215]

I warm up with DCS before playing COD

[@g-locmedia]

Lol. I like that one!

[@kentchristen6048]

This belongs in the same category as complaints that the F-16 is "OP." If they make is more realistic (it's still not real life), that's not "imbalance" or "too hard," it's just making the simulation as real as possible with the available data and models.

[@ImJiom]

it will take some time to learn but once you do it is basically war thunder but more realistic I regularly have the highest score on some servers and only use a flight stick and my standard keyboard

[@g-locmedia]

amazing with just a flight stick and a keyboard

[@ImJiom]

@@g-locmedia the brain so easily adapts to whatever interface you provide it with enough practice....some humans even can echo locate like bats

[@MrEshah]

The question whether something is hard is a bit moot, as it is a subjective experience. The point of simulators though is to simulate real life, so just as the systems and mechanics, ranging from simple to complex, can be difficult and time consuming to fully grasp, they're not impossible to learn if you're willing to. Conversely of you aren't willing to put in the effort of learning, a simulator, be it flight or driving or what ever is likely not best suited for you.

[@rhysgoodman7628]

I wish there was a FF F-15C. 😭

[@aviationdesigns_mg7883]

Welcome Fighter World....

[@mustezdcs6329]

I worship DCS

[@g-locmedia]

If I could only play one combat sim it would be this one.

[@CB-ii2uy]

Is DCS too hard? Yes - if youre a war thunder/arcade cartoon graphics kind of person than yes. If youre a person who is interested in real world weapon systems and history - no. If you grew up building model aircraft kits and have a general interest in avaiation DCS is a challenge but the pay off is like nothing you have ever experienced in another video game.

[@g-locmedia]

It does indeed have a massive pay off.

[@MB-THX1138]

Did you kill that bloody fly?

[@g-locmedia]

Never got him.

[@g-locmedia]

I didn’t realise he was there until the edit

[@MB-THX1138]

@@g-locmedia 😅

[@ej123a]

but that fly tho!

[@g-locmedia]

Lol. Deserves an Oscar!

[@samspeed6271]

DCS isn't a flying game. A flying game is something like War Thunder or, at a stretch, IL2 Sturmovik Great Battles, where you can hop in a plane and be flying in a few minutes or even seconds first getting the game. DCS takes time to learn even how to start the plane. DCS is a cold, hard simulator. The learning curve is steep and long and punishing and that's just to get the plane flying properly. That punishing learning curve gives way to such a rewarding experience though. Even just setting up a free flight mission at sunset over the Caucasus mountains in a Hornet, getting her all started up and then flying over those beautiful snow capped mountains is rewarding. Flying with friends on a combat mission is so much fun.

[@frontlinestudios2298]

Thats the point. Its supposed to be hard. Its supposed to be realistic. Great game though.

[@g-locmedia]

It is an amazing game

[@satchking6861]

No. The difficulty is as rewarding as you're willing to make it. If you want something easy, there's nothing wrong with that. But that's why ace combat exists. Never change, DCS

[@g-locmedia]

Totally agree. Nothing great ever comes easy.

[@randyreal5871]

Cool 🙂

[@joshelguapo5563]

Nah it's fine, just grab the free su25, go to instant action, shoot down a couple a10s, watch a few KZbin videos, do the close air support instant action missions, have fun. Is it learning? Yeah of course, but there's ways to just jump into the action and have fun.

[@macewindu1532]

It’s a game. Very realistic game. VERY

[@ejb6822]

of course you can fly right from the start. just select the free flight and there you are. thing is: that's probably freaking boring, and for everything beyond pointing your plane into one direction and fyling there you need to learn procedures. and in the same way you can learn to use sidewinders in 15min, and there you have your arcade game if you want to. it's simply not a great arcade game, so why would you want to play this one. dcs in a nutshell is for people who like to spend their nights comitting the soi-procedures of the a-10 to memory and study the reason why this stuff solves problems that arise. that's what you're really paying for. but if you want to have a dozen 2-week-trial acrade games that still are authentic, you'll get this in dcs as well.

[@thekirby53]

hardest part was/is mapping all the different keybindings.

[@g-locmedia]

I think the worst part is when you attach something new it auto assigns new bindings and creates conflicts.

[@RougePOV]

without even watching the whole video yet imma say no its not too hard its a simulator to emulate real life aircraft and effects it takes practice to get better most times hours to get the feel of the aircraft and how to properly fly if someone new is getting into dcs they should know it could take them hours of training to figure out what your doing.

[@g-locmedia]

It’s the difficulty that keep most of us coming back for more.

[@RougePOV]

@@g-locmedia tbh just bought my first hotas the t16000m as a starter and supposed to arrive Tuesday and can not wait to give it a shot. I was thinking about getting the x56 but hear there's just some unwanted problems so decided to just go cheaper with something with less problems just to give flight sims a shot considering I am into aviation :)

[@g-locmedia]

@@RougePOV I have a mate who used that stick for space sim and loves it.

[@swadeisno1]

Start small and build from there - you can be proficient in the basics of most planes - within 30 hours - if you structure your time and focus on one thing at a time - start up - take off - navigation - landing - radar - flight handling - then focus on your weapons - or - just get FC3 and jump straight into the f15 and jump into quick action - its can be as indepth or as basic as you make it. I dont think that DCS is harder to master then most complex games - takes a similar amount of time to get good at as other complex games - it just not as intuitive to learn - you need to do some study away from the game.

[@g-locmedia]

I love this. “Structure your time” thanks for sharing.

[@swadeisno1]

@@g-locmedia by no means am i good at this game. But compare dcs to tarcov.. tarcov is objectively harder.. its just easier and more intuitive since dying brings lessons.. dcs requires a pdf reference. Both reward your time with git gud feelings.

[@Hyper2235]

theres an fly in your studio

[@g-locmedia]

I know. That little shit was flying around and I had no idea.

[@splitt_1923]

i don't understand whats a all the seriousness about this game. I think its pretty easy. I fly all fc3 planes, f14 in both seats, f16, f18, ka50. So safe to say i have some experience.

[@Jetvlogger]

i'm still learning F18 till now 😅 ...

[@g-locmedia]

I think we’re all still learning. Anyone that says there not is well talking ****.

[@BenProg]

i don´t play multiplayer anymore.... i wan´t clean nice videos for myself and others.... It´s way to hard for a working guy ... i like to play campain´s but most of them are also... way to hard.... gg to the best - DevilDog,Spud and the funny Guy´s from GrimReapers ! lg