I learned to fly several years ago with an instructor. After a few years of flying, I quit for several years due to circumstances. I wanted to start back flying and even try a heli. I was advised by the heli pilots in the area to spend the money on the G2 and get a feel for the heli prior to my first flight. I took their advise. After several nights on the sim (and many hours), I took the heli out for the first time and had a very good first flight with only another experienced pilot by my side and no trainer cord. The skills learned and practiced on the sim were a great help in getting started.

The one thing I did not expect however, was that I would spend as much time flying planes on the sim as helis! Even though I have prior experience, it sure is nice to be able to practice more advanced maneuvers on the sim without the risk of damage to equipment. I can crash over and over again and it doesn't cost a thing!

Another side benefit to the sim for me is that the closest place to me that I can fly is over an hour away. Due to this, flying after work for me is not possible. With the sim, I can fly every night if I like and try out many different types of aircraft all without leaving home. The sim has become as much entertainment as a learning tool and I would not hesitate to buy it again.

As said above, it is not exactly like the real thing, but it sure comes close.