Head trackers don't map movement 1:1, more like 1:10 (or so). Thus if you want to look 180 back, you turn maybe 30degs but can still eye the screen. Basically you gesture with your neck.

It sounds awkward but it works very well as an input method. It's also way less intense than VR for longer sessions.

Not saying it's absolutely superior, just that it's pretty good as designed.

1. Because in much of the world, HOTASes are taxed at ludicrous import rates and are not affordable.

2. Because the Xbox and PS5 gamepads are better designed and more reliable than any flight stick under $135. Remember, these gamepads have 7 figure R&D budgets, and are used by real world soldiers to control some drones and robots.

3. Because they're 100% viable. I personally know two people who can fly better on a gamepad - including formation flight, air refueling, carrier landings and all combat roles - than I can on $1000 of HOTAS.

4. Because portability is useful for people who travel, such as one of my wingmen who is active duty US military. When deployed he has his gaming laptop and a gamepad.

Your attitude is exclusionary, acidic and outdated.

P.S. As mentioned IR trackers use a multiplier curve, so on mine a 20 degree movement gets multiplied to 180 degrees in game. It feels very natural and intuitive.

Also, you don't need rudder pedals at all. The executive producer of DCS World is wheelchair bound, and simply uses an input on his throttle to control the rudder. This is the person who makes the Apache tutorial videos, BTW.