TIP: Turning off the side panels

[cherbert]

Some people might have worked this out long ago but I only accidentally came across it last night while playing.

If you activate the chat window your side panels will switch off and not activate when turning your head. Although you cannot fly your ship I found this quite pleasant and a nice way to explore your cockpit and surroundings to just admire a planet or maybe just chill while docked.

 

[cherbert]

Just a bit of an update for people using an XBOX 360 Controller. I'm sure this is possible using other joysticks or controllers. I have a Thrustmaster Hotas X but I love playing with the XBOX Controller with the Oculus Rift because I can sit back and relax in my chair and find I can spend much longer in-game feeling chilled.

Anyway...

Not sure how long you have been able to do this but I never knew.

If you hold down the B button and press down on the D-PAD in any starport menu it will take you back.

If you hold down the B button and press left (or right) it will keep that side menu permanently open.

If you hold down the B button while controlling the ship and/or looking around the left and right menus will stay hidden.

 

[CATPAIN KIRK]

Thanks for the heads up - it was quite annoying, especially as the black backdrop would still pop up even when the HUD is disabled.