... but there was something very different about controlling the plane compared to the vr mode and it wasn't gelling with me.
VR mode forces "expert" controls (proper pitch+roll movement), while the default "standard" is a more FPS type control. TBH I preferred standard to use the MGs, as it seems stupid tricky to line up shots with the wobbling reticule (and I have played a lot of Elite Dangerous which is pitch+roll), whereas I'd thought it should have auto-tracking to some point: like i'm sure the A10's cannons have gimballed guns which track.
Well I've finished the game on Normal and done the 3 VR missions. The SP story is odd, still not sure who everyone is, and the plot-armour at times is annoying.
Not sure if the AI actually cheats, at times it feels they move way too fast (climbing/diving/flipping).
The missions have too many timed and score-related ones, at least if they related it too fuel left or needing an amount of damage done, but values change and time limits seem arbitrary just to make it harder.
Then you get the mixed ground attack and air-to-air, and first run you may pick the wrong loadout for plot-twist bad intel.
Ditto the environmental hazards feel very gamey.
Saying all that I did mostly enjoy things. The sense of flying is cool, different planes and loadouts, the PSVR missions are super immersive, and looks fantastic: really hope PS5 gets a full game!
Not sure I want to try for the platinum, 3 full playthroughs on remaining difficulties... ugh... but no regrets buying it / crimbo pressie.
Perhaps the vr mode was too good and spoiled the non vr mode for me!
That happens a lot with PSVR