Ranking of the best flight simulators for PC for 2022

Flight simulators are computer programs that simulate the flight process (not necessarily only on an airplane). The component of such games includes a wide range of military and civil aircraft designed to fly over 3D landscapes. Flight simulators should not be confused with air "shooters", which allow for the possibility of lightweight control of an aircraft, as well as the ability to hang countless weapons on it. Aviation sims are more realistic and are made for the PC, while arcade "flying games" are the lot of game consoles. In arcades, much attention is paid to the unlikely explosive action, which has nothing to do with the emulation of a real flight, where the first place is occupied by the aerodynamic model of the behavior of a physical body in the air and other empirical data.

Choosing an Aviation Sim to Your Expectations

Flying a real aircraft is a matter of increased complexity. All programs that emulate flight can be divided into two broad categories: some have realistic, but not complete control, and secondly, all the details are recreated with maximum accuracy. Thus, before buying a Sim, you need to decide on your own expectations from him. Moreover, high-quality and realistic control will require the presence of peripheral devices, among which a flight joystick is a special "brat" - only the initial step. Also, it should be noted that there is an opportunity to reduce complexity in management.

Not the last role will be played by the theme of the simulator. It is no secret that most of them are devoted to military operations, but recently imitators in the field of civil aviation have also gained wide popularity. It is worth noting that the algorithm of any flight simulator, as a rule, must draw many three-dimensional objects in real time, therefore, the power of the computer system will also be very important.From this it is clear that the choice of "sims" should be influenced by three main parameters:

1. The complexity of aircraft control (simplified with assumptions or precise-professional);
2. Game theme (civilian or military theme);
3. General requirements of the program to the computer system.

Simulation Platforms

It’s worth mentioning right away that aviation games on consoles or mobile devices are not simulators. Such projects, by and large, are considered a full-fledged arcade, because with the help of a gamepad or a sensor, 100% control of the aircraft will not work. Flight simulators on PC are the only programs that can allow the player to feel like a real pilot. In support of this, the following reasons can be given:

• Excellent graphics - on computer systems there are more opportunities to realize a high level of detail and display objects with high quality than on set-top boxes. Moreover, computer software is more flexible in terms of changing graphics settings. On it, you can install various modifications that add new elements to the game or improve the rendering.
• Control - the gamepad in the flight simulator is not even able to replace a mouse with a keyboard, not to mention the fact that it is possible to connect full-fledged other devices to a PC that imitate both aircraft controls and control panels.
• Exclusive Software - Simulator manufacturers have traditionally chosen the PC to release their aviation games, because this platform has a large reserve of resources for development. That is why the PC is the predominant platform for which the most flight simulators have been released.

Any self-respecting virtual pilot will always pay attention to the following flight simulator parameters:

• The general style of implementation - how much the arcade part prevails on the simulation;
• Organization of the landscape - land grid, correction of roads, mountains and forests, drawing the textures of the earth and vegetation;
• Organization of the sky - correct colors of clouds, sun, moon and constellations (at night);
• Weather organization - realistic precipitation and imitation of the elements of wind, thunderstorms, hurricanes, etc.;
• Flight scenarios - the elaboration of the current game task;
• The aerodynamic model of the aircraft - its behavior during landing and takeoff, as well as in the air, separately - the behavior in case of damage.

Proper computer hardware

It's no secret that the more complex the software, the deeper the process of immersion in flight simulation will be. Therefore, the technical equipment of the PC is directly proportional to the technical requirements of the flight simulator program. As a rule, the software in question has the following types of requirements: minimum, recommended and maximum. Usually, in order to find out the suitability of the system for the selected game, it is worth focusing on the recommended requirements indicated on the disc case (or in digital platforms such as “Steam”). Standard flight simulator requirements are based on the following parameters:

• RAM - the more it is, the more gaming operations the PC can perform, without the need for constant loading.
• The amount of video memory - the higher this parameter, the more graphic objects the system can store, as well as the ability to process it with modern graphics standards of DirectX drivers. And further, it is possible by high-quality processing and transmission of images to the lenses of a virtual helmet, the ability to display images on several monitors at once.
• The power of the central processor and the number of its cores - this will affect the overall performance of the entire gameplay.
• Operating system - in Russia, games are supplied mainly under the latest version of MS Windows, while in Europe and North America they prefer MacOS. However, it should be noted that almost any large-scale flight simulator is always developed for various systems - full exclusives are rare (the only exception is probably Microsoft Flight Simulator - a game from the MS Windows developer);
• The amount of free space on the hard drive - due to the fact that the flight simulator involves the drawing of very large spaces, then enough space on the disk will be required for the operational data of the game storage. An important role will be played by the speed of the hard drive, as it will require fast loading of objects during the gameplay. Naturally, low-speed old-style HDDs will not be the best solution here.
• Monitor - usually, its parameters are taken as something average. However, for high-quality display of the picture, you will need a device with good color reproduction, and for simulators it is generally desirable to use three monitors at once (the first and third of which will be responsible for the side view).

Input devices (joysticks, steering wheels, pedals, simulation panels)

Of course, it is possible to fly in a flight simulator using a mouse and keyboard, but it is hardly possible to get the full effect from such control. Therefore, real virtual pilots prefer to use various joysticks, steering wheels, steering wheels and pedals, which are very abundantly presented on the modern market, and it will not be difficult to choose a decent model. It should be noted that for a high-quality flight simulator, one steering wheel is not enough.Therefore, there are even full-fledged models of peripheral devices on the market that mimic a real aircraft control panel with many toggle switches and switches.

Joysticks (handwheels)

These devices are the very minimum that is needed to achieve the level of realism you want in a Sim. For flight simulators, either a standard joystick (which can be used in other games) or a specialized steering wheel can be suitable. Good steering wheels are produced by CH Products, a little-known company in the Russian Federation, which can give odds to venerable manufacturers, despite the fact that its prices are quite democratic. The most popular device from this company today is the Flight Sim Yoke USB model - with one of this joystick you can control almost the entire aircraft, from changing the propeller pitch to changing the position of the flaps. Naturally, joystick control is much more realistic than keyboard control. You can also select a model from a major manufacturer of gaming peripherals Thrustmaster HOTAS Cougar - this device is generally almost an exact copy of the control module from the American F-16 fighter.

To simulate heavy and heavy aircraft, it is preferable to use the all-metal helm of the Advanced Flight Control System III - its system implements such a delay and feedback algorithm, in which it reacts to all user actions in the same way as the helm of a real transatlantic liner would react. It is recommended for flight simulation of military transport or civil cargo aviation. However, the cost is quite not small and amounts to 550 US dollars.

Pedals

Naturally, in addition to the hands, the legs are also involved in the control of a real aircraft, i.e.real pilots use special pedals. The standard option for computer flight sims is a set of two pedals. Unlike the automobile ones, which are responsible for the "gas" and "brake", the aviation ones are responsible for turning when moving along the runway, and in the air - for sliding from side to side.

Among the pedals, it is worth noting "CH Products USB Pro Pedals". The product is made of durable plastic and is not very expensive - about 90 US dollars. It is important that the pedals can be used both for a car simulator and for emulating aircraft control.

A more professional option seems to be Cirrus Precision Flight Controls, which are made entirely of metal and are particularly durable. Their improved version is even connected to stationary training simulators to train real pilots. For their quality and durability "speaks" and their price, which is 400 US dollars. Both of the pedal models described above are connected via a USB port and are compatible with the vast majority of simulators.

Hands free control devices

These include the "hands-free" system "TrackIR GX" - it allows you to emulate aircraft control without the help of hands. By installing additional software (provided that it will be supported by the flight simulator), it will be possible to fly simply by tilting your head. The device is mounted on the monitor and tracks any movement of the player. You can always switch to standard control mode by pressing the F8 key.

IMPORTANT! To date, there is only one line of flight simulators that support this device - this is Microsoft Flight Simulator.For versions starting from 2020, the function is already “hardwired” into the basic package, and for older versions, you will need to install patches.

Specialized control panels

"ACP Compact" is a somewhat truncated control panel from the Boeing 737 with basic indicators, buttons, switches, etc. Its cost is 350 US dollars. This device allows you to feel a realistic presence in the cockpit. Walkie-talkie talk, landing gear and flap control, autopilot on/off are just some of the functions available on this panel. The panel itself is connected to the port for attaching the keyboard. It is guaranteed full compatibility with the following professional flight simulators:

• MS Flight Simulator 2000;
• MS Flight Simulator 98, Fly!;
• Pro Pilot;
• AS-2; Flight Unlimited.

The set comes with detailed instructions, here it is adapted only to German and English. However, a decent amateur translation can be easily found on the net.

"GF-AC" is, to some extent, an analogue of the previous system. However, the various modules included in it and performing various functions are purchased separately and then integrated into a special metal stand. Main feature: each module is a separate USB device. On the one hand, such a distribution system is even preferable, because it is possible not to purchase individual parts that are needed only for a certain game mode: i.e. why buy a weapon control module if the player specializes in civil aviation sims? This model has a certain advantage - the readings of all indicators and sensors are displayed on the physical panel, and not inside the program.So it is visually more convenient to follow the selected course, altimeter and other indicators, without being distracted by the monitor. The main disadvantage is the mandatory presence of several free ports that are needed for each module. Accordingly, in the complete configuration of this device, it is possible to get an unimaginable "mess" of wires. However, this problem is easily solved by purchasing a USB hub (although it also costs money).

The "PFC Throttle Console & Quadrants" is an even more advanced panel that features fuel and engine thrust control that works in conjunction with a separate set of levers. The set of levers will depend on the desired simulation type, i.e. from the class of the aircraft on which the game takes place. For example, for single-engine aircraft - one set, for jets - the second, for turboprops - the third. It is worth paying attention to the rather affordable price of a prefabricated kit - it ranges from 200 to 400 US dollars.

The best flight simulators for PC for 2022

Arcade versions with maximum simulation (for amateurs)

4th place: "FLIGHTGEAR"

This project is "served" with open sources (the program code is in the public domain), which allows for many additional modifications to it. The game features game modes for both civil and military aviation. Due to the presence of an "engine" in the public domain, which can be converted to various operating systems, the game can be replenished with new models of aircraft and battle scenarios from third-party developers. In general, this aviation simulator can be described as quite complete, but it has some optimization problems due to the use of amateur modifications.

• Open source implies scenario variation;
• The possibility of introducing your own aircraft;
• relative realism.

• Some mods can cause the game to crash into unplanned death screens.

3rd place: "AEROFLY FS 2 FLIGHT SIMULATOR"

The advantage of this flying sim lies in the simplified control system, although it is possible to customize it to a professional level. Emulation may well provide the player with a real civil aircraft cockpit. The program supports the virtual helmet. She can "boast" of realistic graphics, and the equipment in the cockpit is as close as possible to real standards. The physics of the behavior of an aircraft in flight is distinguished by proper truthfulness. The aircraft fleet consists of about two dozen models.

• Enough good behavior of liners in flight;
• Takeoff / landing options are implemented in a competent way;
• More than 20 aircraft models to master.

• Some degree of simplification in management is present.

2nd place: "RISE OF FLIGHT UNITED"

An excellent arcade simulation game based on the First World War, where single-engine flying aircraft were used. In principle, a good way to feel, as they say, “on yourself”, the practice of the first air battles. The conditions are as close as possible to those that were the pilots of the First World War. The basic version includes only three aircraft, however, the fleet can be supplemented by purchasing additional downloadable content (Downloadable Content), which allows you to fly aircraft of famous aces, for example, the Fokker Dr.I triplane owned by Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen ", Nicknamed "Red Baron".

• The ability to "change" the scenarios of air battles during the First World War;
• Good detailing of the open cockpit of the aircraft of those times;
• Sufficient correct behavior of the triplane in the air.

• Outdated graphics.

1st place: "ARMA 3 JETS"

This flight simulator is an addition to the famous tactical military "shooter" - "ARMA". He exalts the interaction of ground units and their air support to a new level. The game features several fighters, whose models are successfully recognized in NATO and Warsaw Pact warplanes. Also, with the condition of loading additional content, modern unmanned drones may also be present. The fact that there are radar protection and air defense equipment on the ground makes the beginning of air battles especially realistic. Separately, it is worth mentioning the possibility of patrolling the airspace by aircraft-carrying ships.

• Large-scale simulation of military operations in the air;
• The presence of aircraft carriers;
• Good study of the interaction between air and ground units.

• Aircraft control is simplified as much as possible, however, the procedure for taking off / landing from an aircraft carrier is difficult for non-professional players.

Professional versions (with extended functionality)

3rd place: "FLYINSIDE FLIGHT SIMULATOR"

This aircraft sim can offer a high-quality aircraft cabin with well-drawn landscapes. The aircraft fleet includes training aircraft, real fighter models and heavy military transport helicopters of the Chinook class.The virtual world of flights is worked out at the proper level, however, the simulation itself requires inflated technical data from the PC. She needs high-quality provision with modern hardware.

• Ability to work with a virtual helmet;
• High-quality study of existing models of fighters;
• Adding the necessary aircraft models.

• Additional content is only paid.

2nd place: "REALFLIGHT 9"

Honestly, this simulator belongs to the race of radio-controlled models. However, it is he who can become an excellent training base for controlling combat drones, since the topic has already turned to the question of the application of various aircraft. The developers of this software actively cooperated with the paramilitary structures involved in the creation of remotely piloted equipment. The game is possible with the use of a virtual reality helmet.

• It is possible to connect virtual reality;
• Excellent base for learning how to work with drones;
• Smart graphic design.

• Not detected.

1st place: "PROJECT: SKYSCAPE"

This is a cooperative flight simulator variant that supports virtual helmet systems. The world provided is a set of several "sandboxes" that provide a proper view for the pilot from the cockpit, and in a detailed way. The presence of many interactive elements, coupled with a well-developed system of side monitors, the system is able to present an excellent and realistic picture of the flight. Modes of combat and civil navigation in the air are available. The overall picture is characterized by reasonable contrast.

• Excellent study of the three-dimensional world;
• Proper flight aerodynamics:
• corporate simulator.

• Not detected.

Summing up

Of course, the world of flight simulators is a very exciting topic, however, you should not think that even with advanced control devices, it is possible to learn how to fly a real aircraft at home. Nothing can replace real flying courses. However, the use of aviation sims and special controls will allow you to properly prepare, master the basics of flying, before going to short-term pilot courses or before entering a flight school.