RE: flight simulator for pattern
I've owned RealFlight, AFPD, Reflex and Phoenix. (Don't ask me why I have had so many, just seemed to happen!) For my money Phoenix is the one I like the most for pattern type stuff. They have an Integral (which is what I fly) as well as other pattern type planes. The Integral is great although I would love an electric version on screen (not sure if I can change that).