I own realflight G2. Excellent Sim. I have never flown gas planes before. I bought RFG2 in Jan and practiced all winter long. There is no substitute for real flying but the sim gets you some stick time which is the most valuable asset you can get with a sim. I have flown my gas trainer 11 times with no crashes or instructors. I don't recommend flying without an instructor, but I was just not a big fan of some of the clubs I have here nearby. The G2 is fun and keeps your skills sharp in the winter and rainy days. Good Luck