Okay, after getting myself a proper HOTAS setup (Logitech X-56) and TrackIR, I am having a blast in DCS. This is as close as you'll get in a Combat Flight sim to the real deal. It is insane the amount of detail there is in this game. Though you will find some hints as to how old the game engine is, with assets straight from 2008. However, things are always being updated and modernised to fit other more modern assets.

For the free client in itself you get two maps, the Caucasus and Marianas, and two aircraft; The Su-25T 'Grach' (Frogfoot) and the TF-51D Mustang. These two planes are meant to give you a sense of how this sim works, with a taste of clickable cockpit systems with the Mustang and a showcase of combat for both air and ground with the Frogfoot without bothering newcomers with complex systems management (no clickable cockpit like the mustang. All done through keybinds). All of this to ease you in on paid modules.

Sure, each module is the price of a Triple A game and then some (please never buy a module at full price), but when you understand that each module is basically a game in itself, you'll find that one module is enough to keep you busy for a very long time! With enough practice, you'll definitely get your money's worth. You don't even need to think about buying other maps as the Caucasus is the only map anyone ever really uses.

To start off in DCS. I recommend the FC3 (Flaming Cliffs 3) pack. *DO NOT BUY THE PLANES IN THE FC3 PACK INDIVIDUALLY.* More bang for your buck to buy the pack. It starts you off with a bunch of aircraft with simplified controls and lets you into slightly more in depth mechanics without becoming too complex. For a full fidelity module, go for the F-5E if you want a simple, rugged, straight-forward fighter-bomber trainer. If you want something that has every modern system you could want with automation up the wazoo that can do carrier ops, grab the F/A-18 Hornet.

Don't be afraid to ask your fellow airmen for help online or in a multiplayer server! Remember, you aren't gonna be an Ace right off the bat, so try to enjoy the learning experience at least.