The Ultimate Question -- Ext Views vs Locked Cockpit
 

This came up again in the weekly update thread and I thought I'd throw in an unfashionable point of view: external views are great. I've nothing against closed-cockpit servers -- they're certainly more realistic but this doesn't translate to more challenging or interesting.

External views + wonderwoman view allow for a (potentially) perfect dogfight where flight characteristics and technique are key. There's less randomness and the encounters actually look better. I'd never play an offline with external views active but a quick and easy 1 on 1 is great fun. Online with external views is great as well. 1-on-1 online has given me my greatest Il-2 memories.

dduff

Let the rage begin -->

No rage here mate!
As I said in the other thread; when online I prefer it, coz it's fun to do; and as you say, the view is grand.
This doesn't mean I'm a beginner, or a less than capable virtual 'pilot'.
I will have to try full cockpit online though, just to compare...........

I think it's a matter of head tracking :).

Without head tracking, the full cockpit is unrealistic to "me". Can't glance down at the instruments. Can't look out at odd angles.

With Wonderman view, it's also unrealistic lol. Being able to see enemies that should be covered by the engine cowling. Flying straight and level and being able to look down and around.

I gotta take the time to get a head tracking system.....

I have tried both methods of flight and, here is a weird little thing, it's harder to be a good shot without the cockpit. Maybe the difference is the reticle. I dunno, but I know I am more accurate with the cockpit on.

Splitter

No problem, one can decide: game today or rather simulation.

Diference between game and simulator.
I use locked cockpit always, except videos

Only real men (women) have a hood over their heads.. :grin:

..or shall we call it ... FULL REAL... da da da ..daaaaaaahhhhhhh
(wait for it)

the only issue i have with external views is being able to switch to another teams aircraft, why bother having map icons off when u can just press ctrl+F2 and see exactly where the enemy is?

Precisely. Do what suits your mood.

Off-line use whatever view system you prefer. In on-line war servers I much prefer a closed cockpit. All the outside views provide to much information about enemy movements which totally kills immersion.

Wonder women view reminds me too much of playing Wing Commander III back in the 90's.