DCS World 2.9.29.27278 Adds 'Start Here' Menu and Reworks AI Combat Logic

Eagle Dynamics has released DCS World 2.9.29.27278, an update that introduces a new onboarding structure for new players while simultaneously refining the behavior of AI-controlled aircraft. The patch addresses long-standing stability issues, including crashes related to radio propagation and disembarkation missions, and redefines how AI fighters execute tactical maneuvers during combat engagements.

New Onboarding Experience

The most visible addition for simulation users is the introduction of a new menu labeled “Start Here.” This feature is designed specifically for new players, providing access to special missions that guide them through the basics of flight and combat. Currently, the “Start Here” menu includes missions for the P-51D, F/A-18C, and AH-64D. Eagle Dynamics has stated that new missions for other aircraft will be added later.

This update also coincides with the release of a new campaign titled DCS: P-47D Eagles Rising, developed by Reflected Campaigns in partnership with DCS Core. This campaign is available alongside the new menu structure, offering a structured narrative experience for players interested in the P-47D Thunderbolt.

AI Skill Levels and Stability Fixes

For those who prefer to fly with AI support, the update introduces a new lowest AI skill level labeled “Cadet.” This addition allows players to set AI opponents to a lower proficiency tier, which may be useful for training scenarios or less intense multiplayer environments. The patch also fixes a specific issue where the onPlayerTryChangeCoalition and onPlayerChangeCoalition events were not triggered upon initial join to password-protected coalitions.

Stability has been a focus of this build. The update resolves several crash-related bugs, including issues with missions where disembarkation is set from the start, crashes connected to radio settings, and crashes related to radio propagation when an aircraft or vehicle is destroyed. Additionally, the patch addresses stutters that occurred during takeoff and landing in certain scenarios, a problem previously discussed in community forums.

Refined AI Combat Behavior

A significant portion of the update is dedicated to adjusting the logic of AI fighter aircraft. Previously, AI fighters would perform a tactical turn, often referred to as a “crank,” in various situations. The update restricts this behavior. A tactical turn will now only be performed during a head-on engagement when attacking a dangerous enemy at an angle of plus or minus 60 degrees from the enemy’s axis, specifically when the fighter is at risk of being attacked by enemy missiles.

In all other cases, the AI fighter will continue to close in on the target without executing the crank. This change aims to make AI behavior more predictable and less erratic during dogfights. The update also fixes an issue where wingman echelon left and right commands were switched after a tactical turn, and resolves a problem where AI flight leads would crash if they needed to wait for a wingman after a carrier takeoff.

Helicopter and Bomber AI Adjustments

The update also addresses specific issues with AI helicopters and bombers. AI helicopters previously struggled to land in proximity to tall buildings and did not check if the landing zone was clear. These issues have been addressed to improve the reliability of AI helicopter operations. For the B-1B Lancer, the patch fixes a bug where the armament doors were not fully opened when bombs were dropped, as well as a loadout discrepancy regarding the amount of GBU-38 weapons. Additionally, the update resolves an issue where the B-1B’s landing gear would wobble on parking slots in some cases.

Known Limitations

While the update resolves many issues, some AI behaviors remain imperfect. The patch notes indicate that in some cases, AI groups still do not follow pre-planned waypoint altitude and speed. Furthermore, AI issues with following the leader during a toss attack with rockets persist. Players issuing commands to go into trail formation may still experience delays, with wingmen slowing down and getting into each other’s way, sometimes taking up to five minutes to assume the close trail formation.

Practical Implications

For simulation users, this update offers a clearer entry point for new players through the “Start Here” menu. The introduction of the “Cadet” AI skill level provides more flexibility for training and casual play. The reworked AI combat logic should result in more consistent and less surprising behavior from AI opponents, particularly in head-on engagements. Stability improvements to radio systems and takeoff/landing procedures should reduce frustration for users who have experienced crashes or stutters in previous builds.

The release of DCS World 2.9.29.27278 is available through the Steam platform. Users should update their installations to access the new features and fixes.