DCS Update with Eagle Dynamics - Wags Reveals What’s in the Works

Summary

In this engaging discussion, Wags shares insights into the development of DCS World, detailing updates like the Afghan map, the MiG-29A Fulcrum, and upcoming projects like the F-15C and the Hellcat. He elaborates on the design philosophy of aircraft, highlighting the differences between the MiG-29A and others like the Hornet and Viper. The team also discusses the dynamic campaign system, which brings continuity and strategic depth to missions. Additionally, the conversation touches on future projects, including new aircraft and interactive training tools, alongside the ongoing challenges of staying ahead in the simulation world.

Takeaways

• 😀 DCS World is continuously evolving, with updates to maps and aircraft. The Afghan map update and MiG 29A Fulcrum are recent examples.
• 😀 Learning aircraft systems, creating instruction manuals, and making videos is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the job for the speaker.
• 😀 The MiG 29A Fulcrum is getting closer to release, but Fat Amy (another project) is planned for later. The F-15C is another priority.
• 😀 DCS is working on new content like the Pacific Theater World War II, which includes the Hellcat and a variety of ships, ground forces, and aircraft.
• 😀 Dynamic campaigns in DCS introduce real-time cause and effect, where actions in one mission can impact future missions, offering a more immersive experience.
• 😀 In DCS, the MiG 29A and other aircraft differ in design philosophy. The MiG 29A has a more physical cockpit, with older avionics compared to the more modern Hornet or Viper.
• 😀 The MiG 29A in DCS has been completely redesigned with new art, improved engine modeling, and updated avionics. It’s almost a clean-sheet remake, apart from the flight model.
• 😀 The new dynamic campaign system in DCS adds more immersion, where both sides’ strategic and tactical objectives affect mission continuity.
• 😀 DCS is working on a spherical Earth model, allowing users to fly across the entire globe, with high-detail regions available for purchase for more in-depth missions.
• 😀 Upcoming DCS aircraft include the F-15C, F-35, and a new Hellcat, with a focus on completing these projects in parallel while also adding new features like the Sniper Pod for the Viper.

Q & A

What is the MiG-29A Fulcrum update focused on in *DCS World*?

The MiG-29A Fulcrum update in *DCS World* primarily focuses on improving its flight model, systems, and avionics. The project is in its later stages, with Wags and others working on instructional content, including videos and training missions, to help users learn the aircraft before its release.

How does Wags describe the MiG-29A compared to other aircraft like the Hornet and Viper?

Wags explains that the MiG-29A has a very different design philosophy compared to the Hornet or Viper. The cockpit is more physical, requiring manual switches and buttons to operate, as opposed to modern aircraft with more digital interfaces. The radar and situational awareness are also quite distinct, lacking features like HSD (Horizontal Situation Display).

What is the dynamic campaign in *DCS World* and how does it differ from scripted campaigns?

The dynamic campaign in *DCS World* allows for a continuous, evolving war where actions taken in one mission can impact future ones. Unlike scripted campaigns, where missions are predetermined and independent, dynamic campaigns use AI to simulate ground forces, air missions, and objectives, creating a more immersive and interconnected experience.

What is the primary difference between scripted and dynamic campaigns in *DCS World*?

Scripted campaigns are fixed, with predefined missions and no carryover effects from previous ones. In contrast, dynamic campaigns involve AI-driven actions that adapt based on the player's input, making the campaign feel more fluid and interconnected, with real consequences for actions taken in previous missions.

Is the MiG-29A in *DCS World* a complete redesign or an update of an older version?

The MiG-29A in *DCS World* is a clean-sheet design, with completely new art, systems, and avionics. While some elements of the flight model were carried over, most of the aircraft's systems, including the avionics, have been significantly upgraded compared to previous iterations.

How will players experience the MiG-29A cockpit in *DCS World*?

Players will experience the MiG-29A cockpit with an English-language HUD and cockpit labels, which should make it more accessible for non-Russian speakers. The cockpit is designed to be more tactile, requiring manual interaction with switches and buttons, providing a more hands-on flying experience.

What updates are coming to the F-15C in *DCS World*?

The F-15C update in *DCS World* is focused on adding new features, such as improved radar capabilities and more realistic systems modeling. The aircraft will have a more modernized look with refined avionics and features, although it will still be based on older technology like mechanical radar (likely the 63 or 70 model).

What is the planned release schedule for *DCS World* updates like the Hellcat and F-15C?

The Hellcat and F-15C updates are significant priorities for *DCS World*, with the Hellcat aiming for an upcoming release. The F-15C, along with other projects like the F-16, is also a key focus, but there isn't a fixed release date. However, Wags teased that June will be a big month for releases.

Will players be able to fly across different maps in *DCS World*?

Yes, *DCS World* is working on enabling the ability for players to fly across different maps seamlessly. The game will include lower-detail regions for large areas, but with higher-detail sections available for purchase. This feature will allow players to fly between maps, similar to how Microsoft Flight Simulator operates.

Is there any chance that the C-130 or C-17 will be added as flyable aircraft in *DCS World*?

Currently, there are no plans to add the C-130 or C-17 as flyable aircraft in *DCS World*. However, the C-17 is being developed as a detailed AI model. Players can still enjoy these aircraft in some capacity, but they won't be player-controlled for the time being.