New Mechanic ideas to improve helicopter gameplay

then game is officially PEGI 16 already

really, I thought they removed them?

Nope, they removed most of them. Not quite all. I havent done a test flight on Pearl in forever, loaded in and even I was surprised to still see them. Also surprised they have actual naval models in there now too even battleship row. Even tested out if they still do their thing when shot at, and they 100% do

The US test flight map is honestly pretty cool, since they update it whenever new ships are added.

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Coming back to this thread to add a few other ideas.

Foward Arming and Refueling Points (FARP)

Spoiler

Transport/Cargo helicopters could establish FARPs that players can use to refuel and rearm without having to fly back to helipads. The FARPs have a set amount of uses and despawn once depleted. The players using the FARP will gain points whenever a teammate uses it for reloading or repairing. Once deployed, the player has to fly back to a helipad to regain the ability to establish another FARP. This will keep players from deploying too many at once. Cargo helicopters would become an even more important support asset to mission objectives. 1000w_q95

Aviation batteries

Spoiler

Cargo helicopters and some utility helicopters can move and deploy a limited amount of artillery pieces throughout the battlefield. These artillery pieces would engage any detected enemy within its radius can then be used by scout/recon helicopters to call in accurate artillery fire, as long as the target is within its radius. Points would be rewarded to the players whenever their artillery piece successfully destroys a target.
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Search and Rescue (SAR) timer

Spoiler

Search and rescue objectives occur randomly or if a player is shot down. If the objective occurs behind enemy lines, a countdown timer is set. This timer simulates the downed pilot being captured. The objective is failed if the pilot or crew is not rescued in time.

Artillery support

Spoiler

If an artillery battery is within effective range, scout helicopters can call in for artillery fire. This could be used for SEAD, clearing LZs or attacking bases. Players would receive the “According to intelligence” reward or assist if a target is successfully destroyed.

Air Support from player-controlled aircraft

Spoiler

This game mode would theoretically take place in a battlespace where air superiority is already established. This could allow for strike aircraft and bombers to assist ground forces and helicopter players with only resistance from SPAA. In order to balance aircraft, units on the ground would remain hidden to players in planes. Players using planes would have to rely on scout helicopters for spotting. Scout helicopters can also call in airstrikes. The scout helis can indicate target location, type of ordinance, and attack pattern. For example, rocket strafe, bomb run or precision strike. Planes could also locate targets for themselves, but this will take longer than waiting for recon. Aircraft like the A-10, SU-25, Q-5, or Jaguar would excel in the role.

Large scale objective captures

Spoiler

This is a heavily defended capture objective that requires all enemy units to be eliminated or for more friendly units to be present before capture is possible. These objectives are much larger than most and require coordination from all helicopter classes to complete. Solo captures are possible but would take much longer to complete and may result in multiple helicopter losses. They would appear as large military bases, airfields, or enemy controlled cities.
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Enemy airfields

Spoiler

Enemy airfields spawn on the map and periodically launch A.I aircraft. If left unattended, these A.I aircraft will engage and harass players. These airfields can be captured or destroyed. If an airfield is captured, player controlled fixed wing aircraft can spawn. On them.
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Enemy support assets

Spoiler

These would appear as ammo depots, fuel depots, or light vehicle convoys and can be destroyed by players. Enemy support assets will only spawn in enemy controlled territory and are hidden from players unless scouted or engaged.

Amphibious Assault game mode

Spoiler

A game mode where players start from aircraft carriers or beach heads to assault enemy forces further inland. Amphibious A.I forces will attempt to assault heavily defended positions from multiple locations. Without support from the players, these forces will be defeated, and the match will be lost. Enemy units have a limited count and are hidden unless scouted by a player or engaged by A.I ground forces. This game mode would require a coordinated effort from all players, and all previously mention mechanics. The goal of the game is to destroy enemy units, assist ground forces and capture large-scale objectives.


1000w_q95

Escort bonus for attack helicopters

Spoiler

Attack helicopters receive an escort bonus if they remain withing a certain proximity of other helicopter performing an objective. For example, a bonus will be received if you are in proximity of a utility helicopter landing on an LZ or moving cargo. This bonus will only apply to utility and cargo/transport helicopters. This will incentivize attack helicopters to remain close and support player when needed.