The new ‘DCS World 2021 and Beyond’ trailer is out and, as is established tradition at this point, it’s a mix of high octane and serious cinematic delivered by DCS World trailer creator Glowing Amraam. There’s plenty of new and cool stuff shown off in this trailer so let’s break it down and have a look at everything that we’ve seen!
No spoilers? Watch the trailer here
Be ready because I’m about to spoil the big reveal down below but if you want the experience of seeing it for yourself… watch this first.
Ok, you’ve been warned!
Spoilers incoming in….
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Apache Longbow!
Most of the time, Eagle Dynamics has taken advantage of the trailer to tease us the next big module and this 2021 trailer was not an exception to that. The big reveal…. is the AH-64D Apache Longbow. It was revealed, much the same way as the F-16C was, with a darkened silhouette being outlined by a backlight.
We know this is an AH-64D (or E) because of the mast mounted radar system that is typical of the later model AH-64D models of the Apache attack helicopter.
With the more advanced sensors systems, glass cockpit, and ample array of weapons, the Apache Longbow is one of the most capable attack helicopters in the world and it has long been on the wishlist for fans of helicopters and DCS World. Matt Wagner famously pointed his head at an AH-64 Apache on the ramp of one of the videos earlier in the year and said “huh” before moving on. A classic telltale sign of the next big module… and here is the announcement!
Trailer break down
The first frames of the trailer are of the new Marianas Islands map showing off the latest detailing. The map is really shaping up to be something impressive and, so far as we know, Eagle Dynamics is offering it up for free to everyone. Following that, we can see the Mi-24 Hind (coming sometime early in 2021) from the exterior as well as the Ka-50 cockpit which is likely a nod to the upgraded version of that helicopter also coming in 2021.
Next up, we’re treated to the usual assortment of modern and WWII aircraft for the series. Bombers flying over the coast line, new damage modeling effects, and a Swiss Hornet in full burner were standout images in this segment of the trailer. Note in the left side of the Hornet image our first look at the new clouds that I was able to spot in the trailer.
Then the trailer takes on a slightly different tone with Nick Grey from Eagle Dynamics presenting a heartfelt message acknowledging the tough year that we’ve all had and thanking the DCS community for their resiliency and support. While this is going on, we’re treated to some beautiful shots of the Supercarrier, the new Marianas map, the cockpit of the Mi-24 and the cockpit of the DCS: Mosquito.
The music swells and the next segment of the trailer is by far the most exciting with shots of the new clouds system, the Mosquito, and plenty of modern aircraft flying around with the new graphics on display.
Of particular note are the multi-layer cloud decks, what looks like some improved light scattering based on cloud thickness and type, many different types of clouds, and in two shots, what looks to be visually localized rainstorms. DCS already could do localized storms but they kind of popped in and out while these are on full display.
The trailer appears to end with a thank you and some inspiring words. And then…
… the big reveal once more.
Now that’s one impressive trailer and it has me excited for the new year!
Stormbirds 
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