Take to the Skies: Mastering VTOL in Games and Beyond, from GTA’s Avenger to Star Citizen
VTOL, or Vertical Take-Off and Landing, allows aircraft to ascend straight up. In gaming, mastering VTOL is crucial. Titles like GTA, VTOL VR, and Star Citizen showcase this tech. Let’s explore VTOL in detail, focusing on GTA’s Avenger and other systems.
The Mammoth Avenger: Your Flying Fortress in GTA Online
The Avenger. It’s part carrier, part flying brick, and essential for any GTA Online player. This beast isn’t just for looks; it’s a mobile operations center packed with features. First, let’s discuss how to **use** it efficiently, shall we?
Getting In and Out of the Beast
Entering the Avenger isn’t like hot-wiring a car. There are a few methods to board this airborne titan.
Leaving the Cockpit
Stretch your legs after piloting? Exiting is simple. Just use the standard exit command. No ejection seats involved.
Entering with Style (and a Thruster)
For a cool entrance, use the Thruster. Here’s how:
- Engage Autopilot on the Avenger. This is key; it keeps your aircraft still.
- Hop onto your Thruster jetpack.
- Fly toward the rear cargo bay.
- As you approach, press and hold the “e” key for PC. For consoles, use the vehicle enter button (Triangle on PlayStation, Y on Xbox).
And just like that, you’re in. It’s a grand entrance, complete with future ninja vibes.
Avenger Flight Modes: Plane, Helicopter, VTOL – Oh My!
The Avenger has multiple flight modes. Think of it as a Swiss Army knife for aerial chaos.
Engaging Flight Mode
You start in standard airplane mode. Just throttle up and fly. It’s that easy.
VTOL Mode: Landing Like a Boss
Want to land straight down? The Avenger does this automatically. As you descend in airplane mode, the Avenger transitions to VTOL. The proprotors face forward. When nearing the ground and deploying landing gear, it shifts modes. No button presses needed; just fly.
Switching Between Helicopter and Plane Mode
Need to hover or zip? Switching modes is effortless:
Just tap right on the D-pad. One tap toggles between helicopter-style VTOL and airplane mode. Great for quick moves and showing off.
Exiting VTOL Mode
When you want to return to plane mode, exiting VTOL is easy.
Press the L3 button (LS on Xbox) while in VTOL. Hold it down to revert. Simple.
Autopilot: Giving Your Thumbs a Break
The Avenger has autopilot to ease long flights.
Engaging Autopilot
To engage autopilot, usually a button press works, often in vehicle interaction menus. Check your control layout for specifics; it may be “E” on PC or another button on consoles.
Avenger Features and Upgrades: Because Base Models Are Boring
The Avenger is customizable. Here are key upgrades to enhance your experience.
Operations Terminal: Mission Control in the Sky
Want exclusive missions? Get the Operations Terminal upgrade. It unlocks special missions like Project Overthrow in the San Andreas Mercenaries update. This upgrade is your personal mission hub in the Avenger.
Avenger Thruster: The Jetpack Upgrade
The Avenger Thruster isn’t cosmetic; it’s a vehicle that boosts your Avenger experience. Purchase the Mammoth Avenger first (it costs around $3,450,000), then buy the Thruster upgrade. It’s worth it for added mobility and style.
Performance: How Fast Can This Flying Whale Go?
Don’t expect racing speeds; the Avenger is surprisingly nimble for its size.
Top Speed
The Avenger reaches a top speed of 287.27 km/h (about 178 mph). Not scorching but respectable for its bulk. It’s not built for races; its lap time is around 0:39.421, a clear “cruiser” not “racer.”
Missions: Putting the Avenger to Work
The Avenger isn’t just for free-roaming; it’s central to specific missions.
Avenger Mission Objectives
In some missions, the Avenger acts as a mobile base. Objectives include:
- Traveling to locations like Los Santos International Airport.
- Securing hangars.
- Powering up systems (generators, etc.).
- Defending against attacks.
- Transporting your team.
LSA Operations: Terminal Required
The Operations Terminal unlocks LSA Operations missions exclusive to the Avenger. You can buy it from Warstock Cache & Carry’s website in-game. Completing missions as Boss will garner serious rewards.
Cost: Is the Avenger Worth Your Hard-Earned Cash?
The Avenger is an investment but can yield great utility and mission access.
Purchase Price
The base Mammoth Avenger costs around $3,450,000. Upgrades like the Operations Terminal and Thruster add to the price. For dedicated players, it opens substantial gameplay content and tactical advantages.
Customization: Making It Your Own
The Avenger allows customization beyond performance upgrades.
Operations Terminal: Location, Location, Location (Inside Your Avenger)
You buy the Operations Terminal from Warstock Cache & Carry, installed directly in your Avenger. It doesn’t exist as a separate facility; it becomes part of this flying fortress.
Weapons on the Avenger Thruster: Pew Pew from Your Jetpack
The Avenger Thruster includes a built-in machine gun. It’s pilot-controlled and front-facing like miniguns on other aircraft, perfect for strafing runs.
Bombs Away!
The Avenger can carry bombs – Explosive, Gas, and Incendiary that function effectively. Explosive bombs equate to oversized grenades. Think of one explosive bomb roughly equal to one grenade, and incendiary bombs act as airborne Molotovs.
Other Avenger Tidbits
Here are more facts about the Avenger.
Vehicle Storage: It’s Bigger on the Inside
The Avenger can store vehicles within its cargo bay! Recent updates increased this capability, allowing you to fly in various vehicles that fit.
Trip Meter Reset: For the OCD Pilots
Want to reset the trip meter? In reality, you’d press a “Mode” button, then a “Set” button. In GTA, there’s no functional meter on the Avenger, but maybe in GTA VI?
Resetting Game Progress (Wrong Avenger, But Still Relevant)
If you’re considering resetting progress in Marvel’s Avengers, you’d delve into your PC’s save data folder. But here, we focus on airborne chaos, not superhero save files.
VTOL Mode: Beyond GTA – The Real Deal
VTOL is more than a game mechanic; it’s real-world tech with a fascinating history.
What Exactly is VTOL?
VTOL stands for Vertical Take-Off and Landing. Simply put, a VTOL aircraft…
can take off and land vertically, without needing a runway. Think helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft that can perform similar maneuvers.
Real-World VTOL: Harrier Jump Jet – The OG
The British Royal Air Force Harrier is the first *operational* VTOL jet aircraft. It’s a legend. The Harrier uses swiveling jet nozzles to direct thrust downwards for takeoff and landing, then rearwards for horizontal flight. It’s a marvel that paved the way for modern VTOL technology.
VTOL VR: Virtual Reality Flight School
Want to experience VTOL flight in a realistic setting? Enter VTOL VR. This game is a flight simulator built for Virtual Reality, focusing on modern jet aircraft with VTOL capabilities.
Getting Started in VTOL VR
Starting VTOL VR is different from launching GTA. Here’s a typical startup sequence for VR:
- Connect your VR headset (like a Quest 2) to your PC via Link cable or Air Link.
- Power on your headset and enable Quest Link in the Quick Settings.
- Launch SteamVR from within Quest Link.
- Start VTOL VR from SteamVR.
For non-VR, you can launch the game, but functions are limited – mostly mission editing.
VTOL VR Controls: Hands-On Flying
VTOL VR focuses on immersive controls. Here are key aspects.
Autopilot in VTOL VR
VTOL VR’s autopilot is more advanced than GTA’s. You can set speeds and headings. The controls are usually in the cockpit, on a panel near the throttle and stick. No fumbling for buttons; it’s all in your virtual cockpit.
Radial Menu: Your VR Swiss Army Knife
VTOL VR has a Radial Menu for quick access to functions. Accessing it depends on your VR controllers:
- HTC Vive controllers: Trigger + grip + menu button.
- Oculus controllers (Rift [S], Quest): Trigger + grip button + Y/B button.
Mastering the Radial Menu is vital for efficient in-flight adjustments.
VTOL VR Mods: Spice Up Your Simulation
Want to enhance VTOL VR? Mods are the answer.
Mod Loader: The Gateway to Custom Content
VTOL VR has a growing modding community. To install mods, you’ll need a Mod Loader. Installation instructions are usually on VTOL VR mod sites. Uninstalling the Mod Loader is often as simple as uninstalling the game through Steam, removing mod files.
F-16 Mod: Fly a Legend
A popular mod is the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Installing aircraft mods is straightforward. You place mod files in the correct folder (check instructions). Once installed, find F-16 mission slots on the Steam Workshop and take to the skies.
Other GTA Aircraft with VTOL-ish Modes
The Avenger is just one of several VTOL-capable vehicles in GTA. A few others offer similar vertical flight mechanics.
Hydra: The Classic VTOL Jet
The Hydra, a classic from GTA San Andreas, returns with VTOL functionality. Switching between vertical and horizontal flight on the Hydra is done by:
- Consoles: Right on the D-pad (or holding left joystick on Enhanced versions).
- PC: Holding down G (or F on Enhanced versions).
The Hydra is faster and more agile than the Avenger, making it a choice for aerial combat and quick getaways.
Raiju: Stealth Hovercraft
The Raiju is another stealth aircraft with a hover mode. Turning *off* hover mode on the Raiju requires holding the left stick. It’s different from the Hydra and Avenger, reflecting its unique design.
Deluxo: Flying Car Fun
The Deluxo, inspired by the DeLorean from Back to the Future, is a flying car. Toggling between car mode and hover/fly mode is done by pressing “X” (or equivalent button). Airborne, maneuver using analog sticks, throttle, and L3 for boost. It’s chaotic aerial fun.
General Flight Systems: Beyond VTOL
Let’s explore broader flight and vehicle system concepts related to VTOL and aircraft.
Autopilot: Not Just for Planes Anymore (Tesla Example)
Autopilot isn’t only for aircraft; cars use it too. Tesla’s Autopilot includes features like Autosteer and Navigate on Autopilot. To engage it, first enable Autosteer in settings, then enable Navigate on Autopilot. It often involves moving the gear lever down twice.
STOL: VTOL’s Less Extreme Cousin
STOL means Short Take-Off and Landing. It’s not vertical, but close. STOL aircraft can take off and land in very short distances, clearing a 50-foot obstacle within 1,500 feet.
Thrusters: Pushing Things Around
Thrusters generate thrust. In space vehicles, they can enable automated movement. For example, setting a destination and activating “Automatic” thrusters will move a platform and shut off upon arrival.
JATO: Rockets for Takeoff
JATO (Jet-Assisted Take-Off) uses small rockets to provide extra thrust during takeoff, helping loaded aircraft get airborne quickly. It’s like a nitrous boost for planes.
Cockpit Life: More Than Just Controls
The cockpit is the nerve center of an aircraft, VTOL and otherwise. Let’s explore cockpit-related aspects.
Cockpit Doors: Security in the Sky
Modern cockpit doors are reinforced. After 9/11, regulations mandated resistance to bullets and explosives for commercial airliner cockpit doors. They withstand gunfire, small explosives, and significant force. Not entirely bulletproof but offer substantial protection.
Passenger Access: Cockpit Visits
During flight, passengers generally cannot enter the cockpit. However, on the ground before or after a flight, you might get lucky. Asking nicely *might* yield a quick visit to chat with pilots.
Pilot Needs: Even Pilots Gotta Go
Pilots are human (mostly). They need restrooms too! On commercial flights, pilots *can* use bathrooms during flight if the aircraft is controlled. They use passenger restrooms – imagine those lavatories’ stories!
Star Citizen: VTOL in Space
Let’s explore another game with VTOL elements: Star Citizen. This space sim takes VTOL into the cosmos.
VTOL Controls in Star Citizen
In Star Citizen, toggle VTOL mode using the “K” key by default. Different ships have varying capabilities, but vertical thrust for takeoff and landing applies.
Avenger Titan: Sleeping in Space
The Avenger Titan in Star Citizen is a popular starter ship. For long cargo runs, it has a small rest area with a bed. Handy for intergalactic truckers needing a nap.
Star Citizen’s Massive Economy
This game’s crowdfunding is legendary. It has raised over $774 million from over 5.5 million players. That’s more than some countries’ GDPs! This funding fuels development and ambition.
Error Code 19000: Star Citizen Gremlins
If you see “Code 19000” in Star Citizen, it usually means authentication failure. Common causes are server congestion or inactivity too long. Patience and server status checks help when Code 19000 strikes.
GTA 5 General Mechanics: Beyond Vehicles
Back to GTA 5 for general gameplay mechanics that are useful to know.
Switching Seats in a Car: No Quick Swap
In GTA, switching seats isn’t smooth. You need to exit the car and re-enter through the door of the seat you want. No quick swaps here. Classic GTA style.
Changing Camera Perspective: See the World Differently
To change your camera view in GTA 5:
- PC: Press the “V” key.
- PlayStation: Press the Touchpad.
This way you can cycle through perspectives to find your desired view.
suits your driving, flying, or general mayhem-causing style.
Shifting Characters: GTA’s Triple Threat
In GTA 5, you can switch characters in single-player and some online modes. On PC, hold the Alt key. Use the mouse to choose your character from the wheel. Release Alt to switch. Missions may also prompt character changes.
Crouching: Stealth Mode (Sort Of)
Need to take cover? Crouching helps. The crouch or cover button is:
- Consoles: R1/RB.
- PC: Q key.
Pressing it makes your character crouch. Near cover, they will automatically take cover behind walls or vehicles.
GTA Heists: Cash Money and VTOL Opportunities
Heists in GTA Online offer big payouts. Some involve VTOL aircraft like the Avenger.
Doomsday Heist: Big Payout, No Solo Play
The Doomsday Heist is high-paying. Payouts range from $4.2 to $5.25 Million. You can’t play solo. It needs 2 to 4 players, so team up. The big payout gets split, but the total is massive.
Best Heist Payouts: Cayo Perico Takes the Crown
When it comes to payouts, the Cayo Perico Heist tops the list. Next are the Doomsday and Diamond Casino Heists. The Doomsday Heist may not have the highest single payout but offers a massive total. It can reach $4,200,000 on normal difficulty and even more on hard mode.
Miscellaneous VTOL and Flight Thoughts
A few final points about VTOL and flight.
Why “Stuck in Autopilot” in Real Life?
Ever feel like you’re going through the motions? Being “stuck in autopilot” happens when we feel overwhelmed or anxious. It is a coping mechanism. We shift to routine behavior. Under stress, our instincts might kick in, leading to autopilot mode to manage overwhelm.
Hydra Modes: Service vs. Consumer (Not GTA Hydra)
The term “Hydra” appears in tech contexts. In software, “Hydra” refers to operation modes. “Service mode” means it acts as both a provider and consumer. “Consumer mode” means it uses services without providing any. Not related to the GTA Hydra jet.
Activate Hydra Bot: Discord Music Fun (Again, Not GTA Hydra)
“Hydra Bot” is a Discord music bot. To activate it, connect it to a voice chat channel. You may name a channel “music room.” Use Hydra bot commands to play music there. Again, different “Hydra,” different world.
Hover in PC Terms: Mouse Pointers
In computing, “hover” means positioning the mouse cursor over something without clicking. It’s the moment before committing to an action, hovering over a link or icon. Many spend time hovering their cursors before clicking.
Disabling Hover Effects: CSS Control
Website designers use “:hover” styles in CSS for interaction. To disable hover effects, override “:hover” styles with “none” in your CSS. You can also use JavaScript or specific CSS classes to manage hover effects. This is useful on touch devices where hovering isn’t a thing.
So there you have it – a deep dive into VTOL, from the game-changing Avenger in GTA Online to real VTOL technology and some random tech facts. Now go forth, master those VTOL controls, and dominate virtual skies!
