Why Head Tracking?
 

I'm sure this has been done before, but I've noticed in other threads that some people have head tracking, some don't, some might think it's not worth the expense for the benefit it brings, and some simply haven't got around to it yet.

So I thought I'd post a short clip, from an avid IL2 fan rather than from the manufacturers, which I hope shows the improvements in immersion, tactical advantage, and situational awareness that it brings.

Of course, I had to do it in a BoB scenario...............:)

Hope you find it useful,

Dutch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQa3664qvR0

I agree that TrackIR is a very vital and immersive tool, but isn't your video a bit unfair? After all, it's not TrackIR vs without TrackIR, it's TrackIR vs fixed forward view. ;)

You can disable TrackIR anytime, as well as you can reduce the ammount of movement with hotkeys.

I do the same thing with my left hand on a trackball mouse and my right hand on the stick, without 6dof of course but I also dont get a stiff neck or have to strap anything onto my head

i dont use track ir and my gameplay looks more like the second run than the " fixed camera one" - mosue has been around for longer than track ir...

good video tough,

I find TiR makes me nauseas in IL2.

I use and prefer the mouse in left hand MSFFB2 in the right and key board to my far left.

The advantage as a mud mover for me is I can leave the mouse set in a fixed point looking in target area direction.

Some pilots say they cant fly without TiR , I find those ones usually cursing on comms that TiR has stopped working or has got stuck :)

IIRC there's some alternatives out there to TiR that look like fun to develop.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jd3-eiid-Uw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONOy5...layer_embedded

So post a video.

If for some reason my trackIR is not available I just do not fly. Might as well fly without a joystick.

Aside from combat SA, I actually find it a huge advantage when mud moving and scud running below tree top level.

I'll second that. I couldn't possibly enjoy a flight sim without TrackIR. After flying without it for many years and now having used it for a couple of years , it's an absolute must! I use the Track Clip Pro which is attached to the side of my stereo headset.

Please tell me that SoW will support TrackIR...:!:

I've had one for a couple of years. I was between getting a mid-range Hotas like the Saitek X52 or getting a TrackIR, went with the latter and didn't regret it.

That being said, while it's easier to keep your eyes where you want it takes some getting used to. Plus, it won't make you a better pilot, just a better informed one. I found out i still sucked at scissors after getting a TrackIR just like i did before getting one ;)

Having flown without one for many years i think it's entirely possible to fly and do reasonably well, it just takes more effort to do so.