the sim is a great way to get some basic orientation skills, and its fun to play with, after starting with the Nextar basic sim I "had to have" the next level of sim to match the higher skill level planes I was flying.

so I bought a G-3 sim with some of the add-ons and free planes to download from www.knifeedge.com I have too many models, its a great way to keep those skills sharp durring the cold wet months.
funny thing, I really notice little drop off when I have not been able to fly regularly, but still put some sim time in on a semi regular basis.
its no replacement for real time flying,but is a great tool when used properly,reviewing lessons learned at the field and pushing the limits,knowing the reset button is always there to help.
I am allways more agressive on the sim, and alot more cautious with my models when flying at the field,but its helped alot in working out some moves I wouldn't try with a actual model until some practice sessions on the sim, to work out the mechanics,and what some of my limitations are and working through them with some no consequence training