Flight Simulator 2004 vs X-Plane 8

[NickC]

Can anyone comment on these two? X-Plane 8 seems to have a much larger scope of planes, and I remember reading in Popular Science sometime back that X-Plane was a superb flight simulator. But I don't have any experience with it, and Microsoft Flight Simulator IS pretty cool!

[NickC]

Whoops - I meant to post this in the Gaming section. Mods, please move - thanks.

[liam858]

...All moved.


Liam

[SuperSparks]

2 seconds ahead of me causing Vbulletin to have apoplexy

I've only ever used MS Flight Sim 2004, but that would be my only criticism of it, that there aren't all that many planes to choose from. Otherwise it's pretty outstanding IMO.

[lgbpop]

You can really get some variety with FS2004 if you don't mind doing the logically impossible. For a laugh, I tried the Alaskan bush flight but changed the craft to a 747. (After take-off, obviously.)

Ahem....all kidding aside, FS2004 has enough craft in my opinion, and is very realistic. The kneeboard is really helpful in keeping track of all the details. Haven't tried X-Plane 8 myself, but a customer of mine and a family friend in Connecticut both have it, neither rave about it.

[Cadd43]

I've used both MSFS and X-Plane. They are both good programs if your just wanting to play like your flying a plane. IMO if you want to get the feel of really flying then go out and buy FLY II. You can get it here. http://www.godgames.com/game.php?game=g3eb0518123142
There are some updates that will be needed to download but very worth the trouble. There is another site http://www.avsim.com/ where you can find 1000's of addon files for all 3 of the flight sims talked about previously.
Fly II is more realistic due to adds the instrument panel being lifelike. It gives you the ability to fly IFR or VFR any where in the world and to take off or land from where ever you want. You can build your own private airport if you like, hanger, runway, ground crew, ect.. There are hundreds of different types of aircraft available. From Modern day to Bi-planes or even a ultra-light single seater. Hope this helps you out.

Cadd

[NickC]

Nick: Yes, the X-Plane box showed way more planes available like the SR-71 blackbird, etc., that FS2004 didn't have.

lgbpop: I've only seen X-Plane 8 in one store and it was $10 more than FS2004. It seems FS2004 would be a great choice. Plus I've really enjoyed FS95 and FS98.

Cadd: I'll check out Fly II as well - thanks!

[liam858]

You might find another decent one here: http://www.voodoo.cz/falcon/sim.html


Liam

[NickC]

Wow that's a long list! I'll check it out...