We should be able to set key-binds and axis for multiple engines in game, rather than selecting and de-selecting one engine at a time to change its throttle percentage. The current system can get kind of overcomplicated, especially during a high tier dogfight. Adding said extra key bind/axis options could help planes with two or more engines to leverage its full capability in a dogfight, as well as managing flat spins or roll/yaw if one engine has damage on it or has gone out.
How Would This Be Implemented?
To start off, the axis page for throttle controls would change (but not much!)
All you would have to do is add a dropdown menu above the settings saying, “Configuring Settings for engine (number)” leaving 2, 3, 4, etc. with no key binds. This way, not much U.I. should have to change (I’m not a coder, so don’t ruin me for saying this pls) and players would be familiar with the new system.
Gameplay-wise, this means you could now set engine 1 to have “Shift” and “Ctrl” for to spool up and down, and then for engine 2 set “X” and “Alt”. Tap Alt once and bam, one afterburner in and one out – incredibly simple.
This ability could also be toggled with the Manual Engine Control bind, just like normal, helping all those 2 engine air RB pilots to do the coveted, legendary, Top Gun Maverick split throttle, give AB pilots funny flight model shenanigans by allowing them to turn into a pinwheel and sling missiles everywhere. (At the sacrifice of their plane, at least.) This would also extend to Axis as well, allowing sim pilots a more immersive experience by being able to physically split their throttle rather than not controlling one engine to split the throttles.
Theoretically this could also help heavyweight fighters with two engines compete with the crazy UFO lightweight fighters that are dominating dogfights right now at top tier, driving players to get better at using this possible feature and helping encourage players to actually research said fighters.
TL;DR- The current Manual Engine Control is mid and can be confusing in the heat of battle. It could be better by letting players set individual engine key binds and axis that would toggle by pressing “Manual Engine Control on/off” This change could spice up dogfights and duels in every air mode, as well as drive player encouragement to grind for certain fighters.
- Yes
- No