DCS Black Shark

I recently had to buy a new computer, and I was looking for a new game with nice graphics that my old PC couldnt run.  Enter Digital Combat Simulator - DCS for short - and their combat flight sim games.

I read the reviews of Black Shark (built around the Kamov KA-50 single seat attack chopper) and, although it received high scores everywhere I looked, it always got 'steep learning curve' applied to it.  Its a video game dammit - how hard can it be?

Hard.

As it turns out, Black Shark is a true helicopter simulator.  Built with the help of Kamov themselves, everything about flying this remarkable helicopter appears to be in the game.  I downloaded the manual, which as it turns out is nearly a 600 page pdf file.  Although it explains in depth the science behind flying a helicopter and details what every single switch in the cockpit does, it does very little in explaining how you fly it.

Just last night, after about 5 hours, I was finally able to start the engines by memory (about a 30 step process of flipping switches and checking all gauges), taxi out to the runway, and take off.  On occasion, I was able to fly around a bit, but every time, I managed to crash in a blaze of fiery glory.

On my last attempt of the evening, not only did I manage to take off, but also attempted to land back at the airport.  I bounced off the runway and flew into a building....hey, at least I got a controlled crash right????

So, anyway, here are some pics from the first 5 hours:

On approach to the Admiral Kuznetsov (no picture, but I crashed into the island shortly thereafter)

Engine started, taxied to the runway!

Cockpit view, and shortly after takeoff

A typical ending

A couple more cockpit shots.  95% of the switches, levers, and buttons have a function.

Finally, a couple beauty shots