So I’ve been truly enjoying my time in DCS 2.5 after years away from a PC. Even just the free SU-25T has been enough to keep me busy for the last 2 months. Reading the forums, made me itch to increase the realism factor. So I started drawing up a list,…upgrading to a better HOTAS, getting rudder pedals, getting a VR headset and the list goes one. But all that costs money and I’m trying to be really prudent with my cash given the uncertainty in the economy. Then I came across headtracking, but dang, TrackIR costs a lot. Did more research, TrackHat with shipping, is almost the same price as TrackIR. Wait…I remembered some one mentioning using webcam for head tracking. Hmm, low cost solution!!! Tried to pay for TrackNoIR but PayPal says they can’t complete the transaction in order to comply with international regulations. I’m like Whuuttt??? Okay, more research. Saw a video about using OpenTrack with AITrack on the same day my new webcam arrived. Downloaded it for free. Watched the video twice to make sure I don’t screw up the set-up.
Okay, it seems like everything is working in OpenTrack. Let’s try to fire up DCS…Dang it!! My DCS hangs and I have to restart my PC! Been having this problem with the non-Steam version. Its okay. Patience.
Alright, I’m back in. Let’s just do a Cold Start in the SU-25T from the ramp. Can’t be flying around with a new tech that I haven’t tested.
Hmm, so let’s start moving my head. …
Looks left, looks right, looks up, looks down, bends forward, leans back.
THIS IS AMAZING!!!
LOL, I know, I know, its nothing new…but oh man!!! This brings a whole new level of experience to flight sim!! I started up the jet, looked to each side before making the turns down to Runway 30. Lined up on the centreline. Brakes in, Throttles full, release brakes… Rolling, …rotate…gears up,…I’m Flying!!! Bank right and …ooooh…can you check out that view right below you…
I must have been grinning like an idiot that entire flight! I don’t think I can ever go back to flying and looking around using the hotas hats!!!
I spent a good 3 hours last night practicing flying and dropping ordnance using the head tracking!! I crashed a few times because I got so engrossed looking at the scenery and losing my situational awareness!! Funniest shite was me barreling in straight to the ground kamikaze like on a BTR because I had my head down in the Shkval. ahhahahha
This post is pointless beyond the point of me gushing about my new found experience with head tracking!!! hahahahahah
Gosh I’m so excited that I can’t wait to get off work and head home again!!