Methods are provided for enhancing hydrocarbon recovery through gas production control for noncondensable gases in SAGD or ES-SAGD operations. Steam may be injected into one or more injection wells to heat the hydrocarbons and reduce their viscosity to more easily produce the hydrocarbons. A noncondensable gas may be injected into the injection wells to beneficially reduce the steam-to-oil ratio, improving economic recovery. Unfortunately, excessive production of noncondensable gases can adversely suppress hydrocarbon production rates. To counteract this problem, gas production rates at the production wells may be controlled to optimize hydrocarbon output by limiting the produced gas-to-water ratio to certain limited ranges. The noncondensable gas may optionally comprise a combustion gas such as flue gas. By providing a useful application of existing combustion gases, green house gases emissions may be reduced. Advantages include higher efficiencies, lower costs, reduced hydrocarbon extraction time, and in some embodiments, reduced greenhouse gas emissions.