FSX-MS Newie with helicopters, freeware recomendations

[neucoas 82]

Hi guys, i get a bit bored of aircraft, i want to try helicopters.

 

I know that the FSX FDE are crap, but i already have the Hovercontrol module.

 

I want to know which freeware helicopter is the best. I want something civilian, like a B206 or the R-22 (with better graphics and more working buttons than the stock FSX). I came across the Eaglesoft ones, but if there is something better...

 

I dont want to invest in payware, like the dodosim or milviz, as i don't have rudder pedals yet :( i use my keyboard   

 

Regards

[ryanbatc 12,940]

Can't hardly think of any...  there's a few at Eagle Rotorcraft Simulations:

http://www.eaglerotorcraftsimulations.com/officialreleases.php

 

helos aren't really that popular in the grand scheme of FSX/P3D things....  you may have to go the payware route (with or without pedals!)

[Alan_A 1,650]

Ryan's recommendation is a good one.

 

If you go over to hovercontrol.com (great resource for all things helo), you'll find a couple of other options, as well as a free program called Helicopter Total Realism (or HTR for short), that adds much improved physics and behavior to many helos, including some freeware ones.

 

The best payware option is the long-in-the-tooth but still excellent Dodosim Bell 206.  But if you pick your spots you can have a good freeware experience.  

 

Good hunting!

[Jimmy RFR 406]

As noted by Alan, Hovercontrol has some excellent freeware resources.  You'll find the Hovercontrol 412 there, by Jordan Moore. It has an excellent flight model, tons of variation, but perhaps not at payware quality for the VC.  There are also FDE upgrades available for the default helicopters there.

 

Unfortunately, you're really going to have to look seriously at payware if you want to fly helicopters in FSX, in my opinion.  There's a few decent freeware releases out there, but not many.

 

I realize that you said you didn't want to invest in payware, since you don't have rudder pedals, but it you'll likely need them for flying helicopters sooner or later.  Alan had recommended HTR to you, that's something that will demand pedals!