I have been playing IL-2 now since 2003 when I started with FB (and more recently PF). Since then I used to play semi-real only. This was due to a lack of time to really get into things. So I used to start in mid-air and quitted after I got the Mission Complete messages. From there on I would Apply and go on to the next mission. I know. It's a sin but thats what I did. I believe that there are many of you that also do it, so listen to this.
I bought 1946 recently and decided on that same day that this is when I am going to do things the way they should be done. So since I got 1946 I have been playing Full Real only. I start a mission by starting the engine, taking off and finish it by landing and shutting off the engine (if it's still there http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies...very-happy.gif). No external views, nothing. And can I tell you this, this sim has come alive all over again for me. You guys may ask what is different? You still try to shoot planes down and dogfight and whatever, right. So what is different? I think a lot of the hidden qualities of this sim is coming out only when you play Full Real. The whole experience is just so much more rounded than playing on any other settings. I have been hooked all over again, although I am sometimes flying the same missions I used to on FB or PF. One of the things that I believe is part of my argument is that I feel as if I get to really see the differences in performance and characteristics of the different plane types. All of a sudden I actually try to find out what the differences are between my plane and the enemy's and how I should handle the plane to get the most out of it. In earlier days on semi-real it felt to me more like a thing of upping or downing speed, turning and shooting. And that's all. Not when I play Full Real. It's obviously a bit more difficult and maybe it is this bigger challenge that is hooking me.
I am not slamming anybody out there that is playing on easier settings. I am just saying, give it a go on Full Real and see whether you get the same sense of satisfaction that I do. It really is worth trying.
Cheers
Ex Semi-Realer

