Hi Guys,

I've had AFP for a couple of days now, and wanted to share my initial impressions. I'll start with two disclaimers:

1. I think AFP is an excellent simulation and it is well worth the price. It is clearly better than G2 at 3D flying. Any comments I make about things I don't like in AFP are overshadowed by this.

2. These are my INITIAL impressions. I've got a few years on G2, and only a few days on AFP. I will post updates as I spend more time on AFP.

OK, so here we go.

Flight Model:

3D - Almost immediately it was clear that AFP is better at 3D flying. If you want to learn/practice 3D maneuvers, this is the sim.
Sport flying - G2 gets the nod here. I don't know about you, but I do not own a 110" wingspan Extra that 3Ds like the planes in AFP. My "real" models are all .40-.60 size glow planes. The planes in G2 perform more like my real (non-3D) models.
Helis - I do not fly real helis so can not make a comment on realism. However, the helis are harder to fly in G2.

Graphics: The graphics in G2 are better (both planes and scenery), but not enough so to make a difference when buying a sim.

Program Interface: While both programs are easy to navigate the menus, G2 has a more "polished" interface. Little things like being able to swap airplanes w/o going back to the start-up screen.

AFP "Immediate Likes" : Several things stood out as features of AFP that I like in comparison to G2.
1. Ground handling - the planes on grass are much more realistic.
2. Multiple runways / start positions for each scenery - almost like having more places to fly
3. Ability to move pilot "fixed position" easily, to include elevation, gives a quick way to look at new airfields.

AFP "Immediate Dislikes" : There were some things I did not like initially.
1. Program interface - already mentioned having to go back to main screen to swap planes. Inability to switch between basic and advanced editing for a joystick is another example.
2. Wind - no parameter for a variable direction
3. Dual Rates - no apparent way to set up dual rates with a joystick controller.
4. Editing aircraft/scenery - This is not as easy from within AFP as in G2. For example, want to add a windsock by the runway or change the tail gear on the Sukhoi to a wheel. I could not do this from withing AFP. Understand there are external editors to create planes unlike G2.

Overall, I really like AFP. My dislikes at this point are all relatively minor things. But, I wanted to post at this early stage to see if my opinion changes over the next couple of weeks. I will be sure to check back in as I get more time on AFP

Carl