Used Microsoft Flight Simulator X for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.
Editors’ Review
Microsoft Flight Simulator X delivers authentic aviation for newcomers and veterans, offering a gameplay that scales from casual sightseeing to realistic procedures. Its diverse aircraft roster lets pilots hop from jets, while 24,000 airports enable point-to-point routes almost anywhere. Clear goals and free exploration coexist for flexible, replayable sessions.
Structured content keeps momentum without forcing a storyline. 80 missions teach navigation, emergencies, and special operations, while racing mode adds competitive variety for quick sessions. Microsoft Flight Simulator X stays relevant to simulation fans by balancing learning and fun, encouraging skill growth through repeatable challenges and optional objectives.
Depth of simulation and flexible play
Microsoft Flight Simulator X anchors its experience in systems and choice. A built-in flight planner, checklists, and air traffic control guide realistic procedures without overwhelming newcomers. Time, season, and weather can be customized to shape each route. Cooperative and competitive multiplayer sessions broaden the experience, while practical tutorials help translate real techniques into approachable steps, letting pilots improve gradually without needing external tools or complex setup.
Structured activities push skill growth across navigation, landings, and weather planning, avoiding grind while teaching useful habits. Adjustable difficulty levels let flyers scale assistance and realism. On the ground, AI ground services, including jetways, fuel trucks, and baggage, add believable flow at busy hubs. Menus and tooltips stay practical, keeping cockpit time focused on flying and decision-making rather than hunting settings or memorizing obscure commands.
Strengths include broad content, flexible pacing, and reliable systems that encourage steady learning. Trade-offs include aging tech and optional complexity when tuning realism or expanding the sim. For comparison, consider X-Plane or newer Microsoft Flight Simulator entries if seeking different flight models or visuals, but this remains a robust training ground. Extensive add-on support extends longevity with aircraft and scenery, giving long-term goals without locking progress behind campaigns.
Pros
- Huge global coverage with 24,000 airports
- Wide aircraft variety supports different playstyles
- Scalable difficulty with practical tutorials
- Modes, multiplayer, and add-on options keep it fresh
Cons
- Aging technology shows in places
- Advanced realism can require extra setup
- Early learning requires patience despite tutorials
Bottom Line
A timeless, flexible flight simulation choice
Microsoft Flight Simulator X remains a strong pick for aviation fans who want structured learning and open-ended flying. Its rich systems, varied activities, and scalable challenge make it easy to grow skills at a comfortable pace. Mission variety, competitive modes, and community expansion keep it fresh, making it an easy recommendation for anyone seeking a classic, feature-packed simulator that still delivers meaningful hours and smooth onboarding.
What’s new in version varies-with-device
- Multiplayer updated to use Steam platform integration
- Added support for newer Windows versions (including Windows 8.1)
Used Microsoft Flight Simulator X for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.
