Digital Combat Simulator is one of the most definitive combat flight simulator experiences out there. It comprises of a module system where the consumer can purchase the highly realistic and well made vehicles that interest them. Along side this are campaigns and terrains which offer other experiences but again are entirely optional. The price tag of modules are high but this is justified and honestly reflected in the depth and quality of the module aircraft represented, besides during sales the prices of most modules drop considerably.

The price for entry into DCS is higher than average as with most Flight Simulators, most would say a dedicated HOTAS is necessary, although whilst not ideal an x360 controller can be made to work. VR or Headtracking are nice things to have access to as well and will significantly increase your immersion and combat effectiveness. With all this in mind, if you're interested try the free modules in the SU-25 and the TF-51D both are decent free offerings and give you an insight into the world of DCS.

The community for DCS is quite helpful and nice, on the other hand there will always be elitists in the Simmer community, a great community to have a look at is Hoggit - these guys are great especially with new guys and offer some great multiplayer opportunities. I myself lean more towards Multiplayer than Singleplayer but there are many singleplayer simmers out there, do not be put off by feeling the need to interact in multiplayer if that's not your thing!

If you're interested in DCS wait for a sale and decide whether you want a Full Fidelity module - with a full clickable cockpit and a manual, these aircraft are simulated realistically and you will need to learn the systems and weapon employment. A brilliant starter module is the F/A-18C in this regard, it's fairly simple and straight forward but it can fulfil any role expected of a Fixed wing in DCS from Air to Air, Air to Ground and Supression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD) it can also employ Anti-Ship weapons.

If full fidelity is a little scary to you at the start that's fine! Flaming Cliffs 3 is a package deal that comes with the F-15C, SU-27, MIG 29, SU-33 and the A-10A. These aircraft are more simplified and not clickable, these are operated with hotkeys from your keyboard or your chosen peripherals. It lets you fly around and blow up some stuff with relative ease to get used to the sim. Once you've got your sea legs, this is where the fun begins!

All in All, Eagle Dynamics has their ups and downs but they're steering the ship the right way - bonus points for Matt Wagner the Hero of the DCS community.