We combined Open Beta and Stable into a single release version only at the start of the year. This meant more time to prepare new releases, test updates, and check fixes and new additions. We remained firmly committed to enhancing both core features and module specific improvements throughout 2024 with well over 500 core fixes and updates, nearly 130 of which addressed AI behaviors alone. We also rolled out substantial changes, enhancements and bug fixes for all of our products, for example: F-16C (200+ items), F/A-18C (150+ items), and AH-64D (nearly 200 items).
Q1 and Early Q2 Milestones
In late February, we boosted terrain scenery performance through optimized instancing and improved streaming. The AH-64D received its long-awaited Fire Control Radar (FCR), while the F/A-18C received a new pilot model and helmets. We also improved cockpit and external textures across most Flaming Cliffs 3 aircraft, released a number of fixes for Combined Arms, and launched the “F-15C Aggressors” campaign. April saw more realistic G-effects, improved INS+GPS logic, and the new “Mi-24P Outpost” campaign. In early May, we unveiled the eagerly awaited DCS: Kola Map by Orbx.
Mid-Year Releases
Late-May brought the release of the mighty DCS: F-4E Phantom II by Heatblur Simulations, the “F/A-18C Operation Green Line” campaign, and the free Massun Asset Pack. We also introduced bomb fuse options, pilot model and animation updates for the F-16, and added new FCR modes to the AH-64D. In early June, the very capable DCS: OH-58D Kiowa Warrior by Polychop Simulations arrived alongside the “F/A-18C Operation Mountain Breeze” campaign.
Summer Highlights
July featured the launch of the DCS: Afghanistan map and Flaming Cliffs 2024, complete with three new aircraft and campaigns. We also introduced a new launcher, a Select Role interface, and Dynamic Respawn, alongside AI performance refinements. Notably, the F-16C and F/A-18C radar systems were updated to address false targets, while the Supercarrier gained an Airboss (PriFly deck) feature. In August, we released the DCS: CH-47F, improved the cargo system, introduced a route tool for Select Role, and added the RMAP FCR Mode to the AH-64D.
Fall Advancements
Late September saw significant technology improvements, including the removal of the single-threaded version, the introduction of new Spotting Dots, and major performance optimizations. We enhanced terrain VRAM usage and implemented radar shadows for ground radar in the F-16C, F/A-18C, and AH-64D. Additionally, we rolled out crucial CH-47F features and fixes and substantial updates to the Syria map. October brought our first-ever campaign-only patch and then two new campaigns later in the month, along with F/A-18C loadout enhancements, an AH-64D FCR Air Targeting Mode, and more CH-47F improvements.
Year-End Updates
December opened with the DCS: F-5E Remastered update, new fog/dust and volumetric lighting, a revised selection tool for the Mission Editor, three campaigns, and new features to the Supercarrier deck crew. Shortly thereafter, we launched the DCS: Iraq map. Finally, on Christmas Eve, we delivered high-resolution Heavy Metal Assets for free, a major update to Spotting Dots, critical HUD and FM improvements for the F-16C, and pivotal FM and VRS and flight model enhancements for the AH-64D.
