Most DCS World modules, if they offer a pre-order, tend to offer a discount to help sweeten the deal. The same goes for early access. We now know, thanks to a post by RAZBAM on their Discord, what the pricing is expected to be.
Early access and pre-order discounts
First thing is first, DCS: F-15E Strike Eagle is going to be sold regularly for $79.99 USD. This is in-keeping with pricing for higher high fidelity fourth gen jet fighters being sold with the series and thankfully does not represent recent inflation in other areas of the market.
There are going to be two types of discounts. First, a pre-order discount of 30% will kick in at the start of the pre-order sale. That sale begins February 3rd. Following the release of the jet into early access, the early access discount will be 20%.
See this screencap of a post made on their Discord channel yesterday at 6:05 pm EST.
What we don’t know yet
I’m about as excited as some of you are about this new jet. The F-15E Strike Eagle is a fascinating variant of the F-15 Eagle and I spent quite a few hours flying Microprose’s F-15 Strike Eagle II and Strike Eagle III back when those were cutting edge flight simulators. Reading the F-15 Strike Eagle III’s manual helped to introduce me to the world of modern air combat.
As excited as I am, it is important to note that we still do lack a few pieces of information. First, although pre-order is indeed coming February 3rd, we don’t yet know how long that process will be between pre-order and early access release. I suspect that the window will be short and that it may only be a couple of weeks before it goes from pre-order to early access. I’ve been known to be wrong with my predictions but that’s where I’m guessing things will go right at the moment.
Second, this is going to be an early access release. RAZBAM have indicated that it will have quite a few features on release but is it likely to have every single feature? No, it seems unlikely. We know already that the team intend to introduce TALON AI to the product (and other future products) later on down the line.
As much as early access frustrates some, others will be perfectly happy provided that the jet reaches a certain threshold of capability. I suspect it will but knowing exactly what is coming at early access release and what is planned for later will probably help make purchasing decisions for some.
When this information comes out I will be sure to let everyone know. In the meantime, I remain interested, optimistic, and excited for this release!
Stormbirds 
I’m happy to have been wrong about the pricing. I’m really surprised they’ll sell it at a normal price and even offer a 30% pre-order discount. That’s a pretty sweet deal.
I don’t mind if it’s not feature complete. I’m sure there will be enough stuff to figure out and have fun with at release. Just mapping the controls well and getting a handle on all those MFDs will take a while. And all those lovely hours of hitting F2 and F3 for the glorious eye candy. 🙂
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I was concerned as well, and am happy this is the same exact deal as the other Tier 1 modules.
I am SURE they will make up the “low” price through increased sales! 🙂
As much as I’ve basically ignored the land based “4th Gens” like Viper/Warthog/Thunder in favor of Hornet/Tomcat/Harrier, I’m pretty sure Strike Eagle is going to be my favorite modern jet by a country mile!
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Normal price for a full-fidelity 4th gen AND 30% off before EA access? Yep, they’re getting a massive ton of sales on Feb 3rd, including mine. lol
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Yeah, even if it’s got some missing features I can see this going well for sales.
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I think the 30% discount is a nice nod to us fans. as for early access, what do you call this kind of software anyway, when it gets updated for free for the next decade? name me any other software that stays updated after a single one time purchase? WinRAR?
What i want more than anything is to see these companies well-funded and able to stay with us for the long-term. the 60$ doesnt even cover my bar-drinks tab on any given friday night.
its the best value i have maybe ever gotten for my gaming dollar in the 25 years ive been hooked on this hobby! (except i guess falcon 4… but i like variety!)
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30% off on a standard priced module really looks a great deal. I thought with the the fancy radar and tech toys on this thing, not to mention a whole new “Jester” system, that they would ask a premium price. I guess they figure they’ll sell a bazillion copies and the quantity will cover all the bases.
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At that price I’ll pitch in as it is than a sushi for a family. Not a huge fan of the aircraft itself but I will support the effort.
Pre-order 3rd Feb, EA 2 weeks (be sure)?
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It’s a pretty decent price all things considered and I’m glad to see it. I think it moves it into the range where enthusiasts like yourself are willing to give it a go!
Pre-order Feb 3 for sure, two weeks (Oleg’s be sure not withstanding :)) after that less certain but I don’t think the wait will be long.
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Same here. I’m not too excited about the F15, but for that price I think I’m going to give it a shot.
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56 bucks on preoreder? Thats a steal. I pay more going to the restaurant with my wife. Sure sell.
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i hope the 30% off will also be on Steam…
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Dear Shamrock,
Thanks for your post.
I too think that the pricing is a great idea, but I will hold until we know what’s coming in the Pre-order.
If the aircraft is mission complete (does not need everything, just enough systems to five some action and basic stuff like navigation etc) It will be a no brainer.
Taking into account the rumours that said this was supposed to be launched last year, I hope Razbam has employed the extra time to finish and polish everything that is supposed to come with it at the first release.
Kind regards,
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