Microsoft not out of the flight sim game after all...

[Splitter]

Originally Posted by AndyJWest

I've never tried X-Plane, but the MSFS flight models seem nothing like as realistic as IL-2s to me. The stall characteristics seem all wrong, and I've never seen a convincing flat spin in MSFS. Perhaps the latest aircraft are better, but it never convinced me.

Microsoft seem to be living up to their usual standards with their new promo video: all I get is a black screen...

I would suggest trying X-Plane (they have a free demo, ten minutes of flight). The flight models are generally more realistic, but it depends on how much attention to detail the plane maker had when he made it. ATC is bland to non-existent. Scenery is fugly. Expansion packs are fewer and further between but do exist (free and pay).

The difference is the flight model engine. Nothing I have tried compares. But then again, all of the bad stuff (terrible ATC and scenery) take away from the software.

Splitter

[The Kraken]

I'm sure that achievements, social network features, DLC and microtransactions will play a big role. Exactly what the sim community is waiting for.

Top it off with an annoying DRM system and we're set. Although MS isn't the worst offender in this area right now, but GfW Live is already annoying enough on its own.