I have been considering buying a flight simulator to help my learning process and I don't know much about these systems. I downloaded FMS and did well on it but I was disappointed in that it seemed that the flight physics were very fake (but I'm new so I can't prove that). I could justify $100 for a program but some of the programs you guys are talking about are $200. I would like some input on whether you need to spend that much for a system for good flight characteristics (god help us) or if I can turn away from these companies that overcharge because nobody knows of any other companies that produce products just as good (they have to be out there). I'd like 100% realism at the most with my flight characteristics, but the graphics I couldn't really pay too much for as I am not looking for a cheesy game. Any ideas and i'll look into them........
Also point out advantages for your sims.......
Thnx

I have Dave Brown RCFS2001, Ikarus Afpro , FMS, and I still believe that the DB sim is the best to learn on. The FMS is like a game, not very realistic, only good thing is thats its free, and lots of planes to download.

The Ikarus is very good for 3D, and is quite spectacular in that respect, downside is thats its expensive, you have to have a serial port on your computer, and the planes are VERY difficult to land, and I would NOT buy it again. I bought it to try because of the hype on this forum.

The Dave Brown Sim in my opinion is probally the best. You can learn to land the planes using the OVERHEAD view, and the grids, in the Standard graphics mode. For average flyers it is the BEST.

I do not have G2, so I cannot comment on it. (Others will) Its expensive,and the most common one that is talked about on this forum.
bootlegr

I have flown FMS and found it to be more of a toy than a realistic simulator. I flew G2 last night for the first time. I am new to the hobby having soloed last weekend. I found G2 to be quite realistic in most cases. I think the planes are easier to fly than the real thing once in the air. Landing is another issue.

As far as overpriced is concerned. I think you might be confusing "overpriced" with "more than I want to spend". It is a good product and they sell an awful lot of them. Sounds like they have priced it appropriately for their target market to me. I would love to have spent less for it but at $200, it is considerably less than the cost of a single plane all set up and ready to fly. I can fly a number of different planes and I can fly them when it is raining or too cold or windy outside or after dark. I will spend more time per year on the simulator than actually flying. I pay as much per year in club and AMA fees than I did on G2 and at best I fly once a week. My skill level increased in the two hours I spent flying last night enough to probably increase the average lifespan of my airplanes significantly.

Many people feel that software should be free or nearly free but it takes a great deal of time and effort and money to bring a quality software product to market and even more to support it. Often these same people think nothing of illegally copying software thus elevating the price for those who purchase it. Do I sound like a software developer? Hmmm.

Jeff