Review on Thrustmaster MFD Cougar Pack: Ultimate Windows Gaming Control Center by David Stewart

I've been eyeing them for a long time but prices seem to fluctuate. When the price reached what I thought was acceptable, I ordered a set of 2. I think I paid the price of 89.99. So I use them to play Digital Combat Simulator while flying the F/A-18, F-16 and AV-8B (haven't tried them with the A-10 C II yet, but I have one). I also have other planes like F-14, Viggen, F-5 and FC3. I wasn't looking forward to showing all the OSB buttons. So when I plugged them in and started the DCS, both MFDs matched. For those of you wondering, the left button on the top row of each MFD is OSB1, which moves counter-clockwise to OSB 20. For the F-18, F-16 and especially the AV-8b, these MFDs change the whole gameplay in a very nice way. Even though I have a Trackir, I don't have to bend down to press the inner row of buttons on an AV-8B or F-18, which is very convenient and makes ground operations a lot easier. (The ability to touch the button and keep your eyes on the aim is very useful.) I have multiple joysticks, but currently I'm using VKB Gladiator NXT with Winwing HOTAS, Track IR. (I'm testing the Gladiator, but usually fly Winwing's F/A-18 joystick.) But no matter what HOTAS setting I've tried, these MFDs don't seem to take any notice and continue to do their job. At first I was very impressed with how durable the plastic is on them. They are a lot heavier than I expected. I assume they will last a very long time. Now let's turn to the back. They act like a hinge with a single plastic lag screw on each side of each frame in a hinge joint. This plastic screw doesn't appear to hold the frame in place and will cause the frame to move and/or fold when you press the button if unsupported. Okay, while it's not very good, I've come to terms with it, and this issue can be fixed with a solid mount, or even some glue or tape. Maybe better? Yes. However, if a metal turnbuckle was used, it could cut into the plastic frames, which could cause other problems. Since most people will use some sort of fixed mounting solution, I don't think these plastic turnbuckles are a problem. I deducted one star for the plastic mounting screws. I would definitely buy this product again at $90 a pair. .I wouldn't buy this if the price was over $110-125. Investing in some sort of fixed mount makes them a lot more comfortable. The world of DCS is a game changer. For F/A-18 and F-16 they are very good and improve the ride. First I would change the cabling so that one MFD connects to another and then connects to the computer with a USB cable. This product is a pair and you need one open USB port for each MFD button box. If you have three to power the F/A-18 Hornet, you will need three USB ports. This should be noted if you are running out of ports. I could also make the cords longer, but that's just personal preference. (Longer cables always give you more customization options, but those cables are pretty long these days.) If you play DCS 15 or more hours a week, it's worth it. Thank you for reading this review and I hope it helps you. Good flight!