After a long silence, Eagle Dynamics revealed an update on the state of development of the dynamic campaign feature for DCS World.
While the feature has been in development for quite a while, Eagle Dynamics has been quiet about it, and in a blog post published today, we learned that the team has faced “some technical challenges” that required “substantial architectural changes” to be addressed.
Yet, work is ongoing, and we even get a few screenshots showing the campaign map.
On top of that, the developer provided an in-depth description of some of the progress that has been made. Do keep in mind that the acronym “DCSDC” simply stands for “DCS Dynamic Campaign.”
- Work continues to configure ground AI forces command and control. There are three main systems: The border and frontline system, navigation based on terrain and surface-type, and a multi-level formation system. These are combined into one code for the final fine-tuning of ground combat. The decision-making system for ground force objectives is being tested and refined as a function of force size, unit locations, and the general objectives of the coalitions.
- To improve ground forces movement calculations, a mechanism was created for the DCSDC engine that optimally analyses routes between points, whilst taking into consideration roads, terrain, and potential travel speeds across different types of surfaces. A navigation mesh editor is also being developed to allow campaign creators to modify old terrains to suit their needs. We believe these components can be applied not only within Dynamic Campaigns, but also for non-dynamic DCS missions and campaigns.
- Testing of the integrated air force ‘command and control’ of DCSDC into DCS continues This includes both the creation and functioning of the missions and optimization of different mission task flight profiles. Looking ahead, there will be tests made for all components of the strategic AI troop control and player participation.
- Testing of Dynamic Campaigns has resulted in a new tracking system that allows a detailed accounting of actions and behaviours. This is critical to the debugging process of such a complex task. The current DCS track file system has also been expanded with the ability to store RTS layer information. The resulting systems will allow you to review campaign events and provide a DCSDC active save system. This active save system will allow you to resume saved games and rewind time to replay an unsuccessful episode of a campaign.
Ultimately, we hear that while the development of the dynamic campaign has been “a massive undertaking,” “steady progress” is being made on both the strategic and tactical fronts.
That being said, we still don’t get a release date or window, and it appears that we’ll have to wait longer before we know when we’ll be able to enjoy this likely game-changing feature.
If you’re unfamiliar with DCS World, it’s a flight simulator dedicated to military aircraft from World War 2 to the present day. You can enjoy it only on PC (via Steam or Eagle Dynamics’ own store) and the base simulator is free to play.
That being said, keep in mind that fully enjoying it pretty much requires the purchase of additional modules, albeit Eagle Dynamic has a pretty solid trial and introductory discount program.
DCS World is well known among enthusiasts to be quite challenging for novices to flight simulation, and flying its more advanced aircraft requires days or even weeks of study. Of course, this is what many flight simulation fans want and it can be very rewarding.
If you’re new to flight simulation and you’re interested in giving it a try, you can take a look at our guide, which will bring you along on an ongoing weekly journey from the basics to the cockpit of advanced aircraft.
You can also keep up to date with the flight simulation news via our daily articles.