Noob looking to buy first module

Hello fellow flight simmers!

I've been messing around with the two free aircraft for a few weeks now.

When I first stumbled upon DCS I didn't have a HOTAS, so after a night fooling around with the keyboard I bought a T.Flight at Best Buy the next day. After realizing I was becoming hooked, I ordered a T.16000 HOTAS, and here I am looking to purchase my first module. I also fly in VR using a Windows Mixed Reality headset.

I LOVE the "clicky" cockpit of the TF-51 and learning the start-up procedure of the aircraft. I spent many nights just cruising around the skies and practicing take-off, trimming, flight basics, and landing. It's quite amazing in VR.

I moved on to the Su-25T a few nights ago, learning the various weapons systems. Blowing stuff up on the ground is fun as hell, but I want to also have something that has more of an air-superiority role and eventually make my way to a noob friendly server and cruise around and learn the ropes.

Would the F-15C be what I'm looking for? It's not a full module with the clicky cockpit that I like, but I'm ok with that for now. I figure this way I will have the TF-51, the Su-25T and the F-15C to mess around with until I become more deeply situated with the sim.

Any suggestions or help is greatly appreciated! Having a blast with this sim.

TL;DR - Is the F-15C a good noob friendly first module to get my feet wet? Looking for something with an air superiority role

F-15 is a good start.

It's cheap and maybe there will be sale at black friday or x-mas - then you can buy something different.

You can't go wrong with the F-15C.

The F-15C will be great for learning air-to-air combat. As you've noticed, it doesn't have the fully interactive cockpit, the systems will be similar in complexity to the Su-25T, with the similarly simple startup. That being said, that simplicity can be very useful if you're learning air combat for the first time, because it all happens so fast. And of course, even the relatively "simple" systems can require a bit of learning at first, like the different radar modes and pulse rates, etc. And because it's inexpensive, it can be a good companion to the Su-25T, giving you a chance to decide whether you like AA or AG combat better (and letting you switch back and forth depending on your mood). And it gives you a chance to learn a lot of the maneuvering and tactics that can be applied to air-to-air combat in general.

And then if you decide that you want a fully-modelled air superiority fighter, the best option would probably be the Mirage 2000C, although the F/A-18C and the upcoming F-14 will also have some serious air superiority capabilities, but they are still very much under development at the moment (I would specifically advise against the F/A-18C for a first module right now because it is still in early access and unfinished). The MiG-21 is also a good option for a fully-modelled air superiority fighter, but it is much more difficult and challenging due to the (faithfully modelled) ah, crude level of the Soviet technology of that era.

But yeah, the F-15C would be the best choice to try out air-to-air combat and see how you like it. The three other FC-3 air superiority fighters, the Su-27, Su-33, and MiG-29 are also pretty good, but the F-15C is the best of that bunch in my opinion. Definitely a good first-time air superiority fighter.

If you're gonna get the F-15C, just go ahead and spend a little extra to get FC-3! You'll get the Eagle, plus a whole bunch more. Much more economical in the long run, and alleviates any chance of regret...

If you're gonna get the F-15C, just go ahead and spend a little extra to get FC-3! You'll get the Eagle, plus a whole bunch more. Much more economical in the long run, and alleviates any chance of regret...

Yep, do this. I was gonna say the same thing. You get a lot in FC-3. If you do like clicking stuff in the cockpit and interacting with the systems I would recommend getting the A-10C in the future. I've had it for years and still find things to learn.

Let us know what you do and how you find it. Always interesting getting an opinion from someone with new eyes (so to speak) to the simulation.

:thumbup:

There have been a couple of similar threads in the last month or so - go and check those for more relevant advice/discussion. I'd keep this more specific to your situation, which was quite well detailed in the OP. A few more details:

Are you OK with early access products? (extra bugs, features breaking or missing, VERY long wait times for the stuff you really want)

How about Russian/vintage planes? (Eg. Mig-15 lets you go subsonic and guns only, F-5 might be interesting too and both would be easy to learn)

Do you plan to buy more modules soon or are you sure you can focus on just one aircraft for months on end?

FC3 could be your first option as the aircraft are quick to learn and you'd have multiple Russian designed fighters in addition to the F-15. Also the A-10A and Su-25A can be a blast to fly.

MAC is supposed to come soonish (no exact release date) and was announced in July news I think. It will replace FC3 with just more aircraft but you will have an option to upgrade.

Mirage 2000 obviously as well. Stable, air superiority focus, the best module from Razbam.

Hornet. Very good air superiority and ground attack features, will take years before it will be really finished.

There are differences between the fighters... not sure if you're aware. Hornet flies very well at low speeds, the Mirage is a supersonic delta, etc. I would suppose you'll eventually end up owning a couple of them.

With the high-fidelity modules, learning is faster if you can utilize community resources like Chuck's guides or direct help from more experienced pilots.

TL;DR - Is the F-15C a good noob friendly first module to get my feet wet? Looking for something with an air superiority role

I'm going to differ from the majority opinion - when I tried the F-15C as a standalone module, I found it was missing the basic training I'd come to expect from my experience with the Su-25T, so was disappointed.

DCS 1.2.16 included depreciated F-15C FC2 missions that could be made serviceable by adjusting loadouts, etc. to compensate for changes in the FM, etc. - unfortunately they are no longer included in 1.5.6/2.5.x

So IIRC, you get 2 Instant Action, 2 SP Missions and the F-15C Bear Trap Campaign with the standalone F-15C module.

IMHO the foundations for flying the F-15C are found in the Su-27's training missions, etc. so it's best to buy FC3, learn the Su-27 and then move onto the F-15C.

Note:

If regardless, you decide to buy the F-15C, I'd recommend feefifofum's "Eye for an Eye" SP/Coop missions as a good introduction (AFAIK the 1.5 version still works in 2.5).

You'd still need to pickup the F-15C's basics (radar, etc.) via youtube, etc. but it might be all you need to practice what you learn.

I think the module I have flown least of them all is the F-15.

Too superior, too easy, too non-fidelity. Where is the thrill ?

With MAC being announced and it's upgrade option...I wouldnt buy into FC3 anymore but wait for MAC and get a proper Module now. The Mirage is maybe closest to the F-15 role, just full fidelity...and french HAHA

*there is an "engl. cockpit" option ;)

I would also agree with getting flaming cliffs 3.

good starting point, basic aircraft knowledge, how to read instruments, utilize each aircraft, etc. even the "basic modules" are alot of self teaching. the su 27, su 33, and mig 29 all have similar radar systems if im not mistaken( correct me if im wrong) and the f-15 radar is another one that takes time too. no manuals. i would recommend you tube cause the guys who post tutorial videos on there have the experience and knowledge on how to explain the use of different functions and how to effectively use them.

the f-15 is awesome, but the sukhois are pretty awesome as well.

campaigns are fun, carrier campaigns for su33 are sweet.

flaming cliffs, if used properly, is a teaching tool for how to actual produce when you get into the detailed flight cockpits. im still kindergarten with the f-18, but unfortunatley the warthog hotas, track IR,and rudder pedals have sunk more of my time into the f-15. been playing collectively for two years, just got the hotas, and man does it make the difference.

hopefully i can learn how to dog fight here soon, the right way. mastering radar systems first though is essential. without it your blind.

have fun!

Even using the DCS program, you can get the modules that steam has available when they go on sale. just input your product code from steam into your DCS module. also gives you more options on the sales.... but ED does a good job with sales as well, esp on older stuff.

Migrating between Steam and ED standalone is much harder than it used to be a couple of years back, the DRM/licensing systems have changed.

Buy whatever interests you. DCS' difficulty curve is greatly over stated.

As a recent newbee to the DCS world myself, perhaps my experience and thought would be helpful...or not. I started with the su-25T and p-51 with the free 2.5 download. The value of these aircraft is that it allows you to experience the really nice Caucuses map and learn to fly the aircraft, and while not as complex as the more modern ones, are a good introduction to the basics of both jet, and non jet flying. Lots of help on youtube and other resources.

I then bought the hornet package with the Persian gulf map and Su-33 bundle...which was a great deal. I also bought the Nevada test range map. The Hornet is a great aircraft, and in the last month that I've owned it, all I've done during my DCS time is to spend time learning the systems and flying it to what I think is reasonably well so that I don't make a total fool of myself when I think I'm ready for the step to online play. I made it a priority to learn proper startup, takeoff, landing, weapons and then case I to case III recoveries. Currently, air to air refueling is my bane and I know I will eventually get consistent at it( well that's the plan ). At this point, I am less interested in bombing stuff and A-A although I've done a few missions in that regard. Yes I know that a lot of work still needs to be done on the hornet, but I am patient and with spaced out updates, gives you more time to learn the basics and then incorporate the new stuff.

I guess what I am trying to say is that pick an aircraft or two that you really like and enjoy just the thrill of flying and learning the systems. I already ordered the F-14 on pre-release...another one of my favourite aircraft. I know we all have favourites...but think about what's best for you and then decide: a) level of interest you want to put into the sim and b) concentrate on what you like and make purchases to that end.

Well, my 2 cents worth; sorry to be so long winded

ks

startup, takeoff

Many players in Finland go online at this point and have a great time. The DCS learning curve can have many pitfalls and there's little to be ashamed of if some things are slow going or difficult. It all depends a lot on your environment.

Many players in Finland go online at this point and have a great time. The DCS learning curve can have many pitfalls and there's little to be ashamed of if some things are slow going or difficult. It all depends a lot on your environment.

That is really great...but when I did a little searching around for online play, there certainly was a "no noob" feel from some corners of the dcs universe. Regardless, like I said, I'm patient and I'm sure to find a fun and instructive place to fly.

ks

That is really great...but when I did a little searching around for online play, there certainly was a "no noob" feel from some corners of the dcs universe. Regardless, like I said, I'm patient and I'm sure to find a fun and instructive place to fly.

ks

I wouldn't suggest A2A combat until you know what you are doing. It's too easy to shoot down friendlies at the start.

If you like learning how the aircraft actually works, I'd stay away from FC3 aircraft, including the F-15C.

Instead you have to ask yourself a couple of questions:

- Eastern or Western aircraft?

- Metric or Imperial gauges?

- Modern or Older? How old?

- FBW or not? Personally I much prefer non-FBW aircraft in DCS.

- A2A, A2G or both? Which is most important to you? Especially older aircraft can do both A2A (MiG-21) or A2G (Viggen) in some way but are quite specialised.

- Full fidelity or not? Personally I actually believe that full fidelity REDUCES the learning curve, because you can just look around in the cockpit for the right switch rather than remember if it is alt-ctrl-F or shift-ctrl-F to do what you want it to do.

- Early access or not? Like already said, early access can take a LONG time to complete and some modules may never even reach completion because DCS itself keeps changing and 3rd party devs do have to keep up with this.

Keep in mind that it's a sandbox sim, mostly. So you can create mission which you feel comfortable with, with opponents that you feel comfortable against. So if you decide to buy the MiG-21 for example, you don't have to worry about hordes of F-15's shooting at you. You can choose to go against B-52's, F-4's, etc. Or F-86's etc. Or even create a hypothetical scenario where you have can use the MiG-21 in a WW2 setting. It's all up to you. :thumbup:

I love the MiG-21 but would probably not recommend it until you've learnt at least one other full fidelity module first, as the MiG-21 tries to actively plot your demise.

Can't go wrong with FC3 as the first module.

Hello fellow flight simmers!

 

I've been messing around with the two free aircraft for a few weeks now.

 

When I first stumbled upon DCS I didn't have a HOTAS, so after a night fooling around with the keyboard I bought a T.Flight at Best Buy the next day. After realizing I was becoming hooked, I ordered a T.16000 HOTAS, and here I am looking to purchase my first module. I also fly in VR using a Windows Mixed Reality headset.

 

I LOVE the "clicky" cockpit of the TF-51 and learning the start-up procedure of the aircraft. I spent many nights just cruising around the skies and practicing take-off, trimming, flight basics, and landing. It's quite amazing in VR.

 

I moved on to the Su-25T a few nights ago, learning the various weapons systems. Blowing stuff up on the ground is fun as hell, but I want to also have something that has more of an air-superiority role and eventually make my way to a noob friendly server and cruise around and learn the ropes.

 

 

Would the F-15C be what I'm looking for? It's not a full module with the clicky cockpit that I like, but I'm ok with that for now. I figure this way I will have the TF-51, the Su-25T and the F-15C to mess around with until I become more deeply situated with the sim.

 

Any suggestions or help is greatly appreciated! Having a blast with this sim.

 

 

TL;DR - Is the F-15C a good noob friendly first module to get my feet wet? Looking for something with an air superiority role

Are you looking for a RL experience, or just a game to play on the desktop?

Are you a pilot IRL or a gamer?

What type of aircraft challenges you - simple or complex?

Will you be learning on your own or in a group like a squadron?

In DCS there are options for all the above, and it depends upon you as to which will give you the best experience. And only you can answer that.

For me, as a RL pilot, I chose cockpit, realistic controls, complex aircraft, and a squadron for training, support, and mission experience.

This is my mileage. Yours may vary.

Thanks for all the suggestions fellas! Sorry, I've been away from the computer for a few days.

I ended up with the F-15. I eventually want to learn an aircraft in and out in terms of startup and realism, but right now my biggest hurdle to jump is the use of VR.

Since there are so many key binds for basically everything, I need to memorize what is what with muscle memory since I can't see my keyboard and hotas. It's proving very challenging. I'm going to have to map as much as I can to my hotas.

I've heard of Voice command programs but never jumped into them. I might have to now to make things a bit easier.

In terms of take-off/flying/landing I'm progressing rather quickly which is awesome. Getting much more comfortable.

In terms of all the acronyms that a lot of people use, it's like Spanish to me - I have no idea what is what.

I am also completely unfamiliar with ATC terms. I basically just taxi to a runway and takeoff since I'm the only one out there.

I feel like things would be easier to learn if there is some kind of random noob friendly server, where I can just practice being in the presence of other people flying.

Lots to learn! Thanks everyone for all the suggestions and warm welcomes, I was not expecting multiple pages of replies!

I bought the F18C as my first mod... and have not looked back.. bought FC3 after and flying the old planes is just boring now.. hahaha.. I will add i used to play LOMAC many moons ago.

F-15C anyway good choice, but in same time i may recommend Su-33.

It can give you carrier operation experience, more comfortable on take off and landing, have some air to ground capability and better in close dogfight, because of R-73 missile.