I recently posted this over at the ED side but it has lots of info that will prevent me from having to retype it:


I'm going to weigh in here as well for those of you who have either had your DCS module on the shelf for awhile as connection issues work themselves out, or perhaps you have new controls you haven't had a chance to dial in... or perhaps you are new to the MP environment and feel a bit intimidated about "being a burden."

I'm here to tell you the beauty of having both Firehouse and Hollo Pointe servers put to task here is that we can accommodate EVERYONE.

The Firehouse server is, for the most part, going to be committed to providing a "Shakedown Cruise" opportunity for all enthusiasts currently using the DCS high fidelity modules- A-10C, KA-50, SU-25T, CA (Mostly for JTAC) and P-51. A narrow spectrum of popular FC3 aircraft are included as well but don't have the "student / instructor" spots.

The Playground is an opportunity for people to work out issues with their controls, to practice a variety of skills with weapons and systems... practice formation flying with a variety of aircraft involved...

I do have somewhat isolated spots populated with the main DCS aircraft in "Student Driver / Instructor" roles. These roles are intended to give the EXTREMELY new a chance to bang around without needing to worry about feeling like they're "Getting in the way." Both our servers' regulars are VERY patient and helpful- but we're constantly hearing feedback that people "don't want to be a bother." RIDICULOUS! Come on in!

The student slots are at their own airfield. A-10C and SU-25T aircraft are a bit further away to give them loads of wiggle room, and waypoints guide them over to the action as people start to get more comfortable. They can land at an active airfield, bomb up and head out to the range with the rest of the folks as their confidence builds. Those who need a little more time working the kinks out can stay over by their base of origin. Conspicuously marked (OD) Instructor aircraft are available as well for those who don't mind taking our fledgling enthusiasts under their wing to help them out. If you see one of these OD aircraft nearby with 2-3 other aircraft in tow, then you know it's a group of relatively inexperienced pilots who will likely have a narrow spectrum of situational awareness... maybe if you join up with them you give them a bit of a wider berth and fly a bit more defensively.

Seasoned pilots have plenty to do as well with the full spectrum of weapons. Various target areas provide different challenges- whether they're SAMs or dedicated AAA.

SPECIAL NOTE: SAM AND AAA THREATS ARE OFTEN IMMORTAL SO THEY LAST THROUGHOUT THE FLY-IN WINDOW.

The idea is that instead of mindlessly clobbering hapless targets that you constantly have that threat to deal with. Sure, you can deal with it from 20000 feet- or you can purposely work at the fringe of their range to work on your evasion techniques. You decide- but the threats are there to stay.

Convoys are also working their way around the training area at random intervals. These convoys are both supplies and armored reinforcements... some are on the roads, some are working their way around various rivers and streams to get to a variety of objectives. These are little "cookies" for those who are bored with the predictable target areas.


BE CAREFUL- some blue CA spots exist and friendly forces may be navigating around the area as well. Make sure you ID your targets!

The scripting in the mission is by no means polished or exotic- just enough to generate some messages and to randomize some enemy activity. I hope it provides a nice place for large numbers to congregate and shake out before heading over to Hollo Pointe for actual missions.

TS3 is going to be a busy place and for that reason I do have a "Firehouse TS3 Server" started and ready with a variety of rooms. The login info is available on the first page of the Firehouse / Hollo Pointe Server thread.

I ask that those who need specific instruction (or those who wish to help out) join the Firehouse Server TS3 and head to the "Flight School" Channel. People wanting to just get in and go for it on their own or with their squad mates can head to red or blue channels.

ENO
"Go Ugly Early."
"Sweetest's" Military Aviation Art