Multi-Seat capabilities SP/MP

[Flagrum]

If we talk about multi-seat capability of a DCS module, this can mean two things:

1. Posibillity for one player to switch between different positions/seats in one aircraft (example: Huey).

2. Posibillity for several players to enter different positions/seats in one (the same) aircraft (example: coming L-39, planned for Huey, etc.)

 

If we have now an aircraft where for example two different roles have to be filled, for example a pilot role and a RIO role then two human players flying together in this aircraft, filling both roles is ideal.

 

But what if one wants or have to play alone (no matter if in SP or MP environment)? The "switching seats" approach is not satisfactory. This works somewhat okayish for roles that are similar or just a backup - like in the Huey. But the workload for a single human when occupying both roles is just difficult (there is a good reason why i.e. an F-14 is flown by two).

 

The solution is to have an AI crew member filling the other role. BST approached this problem by implementing some sort of (a rather limited) "autopilot", so one can safely switch over to the CPG or door gunner positions.

 

Now, what I would like to see, additionally, is the following: merge the already existing AI logic with a human controlled aircraft.

 

In the mission editor one can define a route for an AI aircraft. Actions, like attacking something, switching radar on or of, etc., can be defined and be triggered by reaching a specific waypoint or completely depending on other means (triggered by script logic, comms menu, etc.)

 

What if now a player controlled aircraft would still respect those actions, ifthe AI part of the crew would process them?

 

Example:

A) Human pilot flies the aircraft according to the route as briefed (i.e. as defined in the ME). Upon reaching a specific waypoint, the AI WSO prepares and conducts the attack.

 

B) The AI pilot flies the route according to the definition in the ME. The human WSO just enjoys the ride and kills enemies then and when.

 

My goal here would be to have the ability to actually let a mission designer script some aspects of a multi-seat aircraft sortie (as opposed to let the human player always and in every case be in charge for everything - as that means that he has to do stuff sequentially instead of in parallel by switching seats back and forth).

[The_Pharoah]

Good point. I also thought about this. I've been keen on a US helicopter gunship (eg. the AH1 from Belsimtek) but also thought how difficult it would be (or is supposed to be) with just 1 pilot if you're flying on an empty server say. Not just that...how about flying with some random who takes pleasure in just fkg $hit up or wasting ammo.

 

This will work really well in a clan-type environment or with peeps using TS3...or on public servers with like-minded individuals. Life is like a box of chocs aye? :)