This is a hypothetical question. We've seen in the screenshots that the Sopwith Snipe is being modeled for the game. I have no problem with that.

In Red Baron they modeled the Snipe, but did not include the Sopwith Dolphin or the D.H.5. If YOU were creating a new WWI sim, and had to include only one of these three aircraft, which would you choose and why?

Droops

The Dolphin. It looks a bit weird with the back staggered wings. And even though it wasn't standard, 4 forward firing mgs is nice. If that option was in the game.

IMHO both the Dolphin and the DH5 are more significant than the Snipe. The Dolphin was a good aircraft, it had a unique appearance, and many saw action, so it gets my vote. The DH5 did not see nearly as much action and it was quickly overshadowed by the Camel, but still equipped a few squadrons.

If we ever get a Dolphin the 4 gun configuration has to be modeled realistically and be optional. The two wing mounted Lewis guns could carry only a single drum of ammo - no reloads, and they significantly degraded the flight performance of the plane. Most operational Dolphins were flown without them.

I would say the Dolphin, but I have no problem with the Snipe being there.

I won't state a preference for a hypothetical question, lest I be lumped together with those who entertain fantasies :p
However, let me present this summary - a/c type, squadron, length of service.
DH5 24 05/17 > 12/17 (01/18)
32 05/17 > 01/18 (03/18)
41 07/17 > 08/17 (11/17)
64 06/17 > 01/18 (03/18)
2AFC 07/17 > 01/18

Dol 87 12/17 > 02/19
19 01/18 > 02/19
23 03/18 > 03/19
79 02/18 > 07/19

Snp 43 08/18 > 09/19
45 10/18 > 01/19
4AFC 10/18 > 02/19

The DH5 made a major contribution in it's use as ground attack; notably at Cambrai. The Dolphin was a superb high altitude machine; the Snipe came too late, due to labour problems in the factories.

cheers,
shredward

I didn't know about the reloads

How about the Brisfit with one or two rear mounted guns? Or the 360 deg field of fire of the Roland C.IIs rear gunner? ( Going on memory here. )