6 Best Flight Simulation Games, Ranked

Flight simulators are an increasingly popular genre of video games, often at the forefront of pushing the boundaries and technology of the industry. From relatively simple combat-focused games replicating the famous dog fights of World War II, to the more complex simulators which enable players to shuttle passengers between entire nations, the choices in this genre are as diverse as they are immersive.

Whether for the casual player looking for a unique gaming experience or for the hardcore aviation enthusiasts seeking to learn the finite details of specific aircraft, there is something for everyone in the flight simulation space. While many games can be played on controllers or keyboards, each flight simulator is enhanced by the addition of a joystick or modular controller. Many titles also incorporate VR options.

1 War Thunder

Combat-Focussed Multiplayer Game Suited For Genre Newcomers

War Thunder has consistently maintained its spot as one of the most-played free-to-play multiplayer games since its release in 2013 and is one of the most accessible games for newer players in the flight simulator genre. The game can be played with a controller, keyboard, or joystick, and features a range of vehicles, including helicopters, boats and tanks. While the game features a lengthy list of DLC content, new players can jump right in without spending a penny to see whether they like it themselves.

War Thunder can make for an excellent entry point into the genre. It does not require elaborate knowledge of aircraft to play, and combines the unique experience of flying aircraft with the simplicity and familiarity of other competitive multiplayer games.

2 VTOL VR

Highly Interactive Game Set Entirely In VR

VTOL VR is a combat-focused, VR exclusive flight sim set in the near future. What makes this game unique is that no joystick is necessary to interact with the cockpit, and players can do this through the VR trackers in their hands. In this way, the experience is made even more immersive. While a fair degree of knowledge is required to operate many of the aircraft, no button or controller-mapping is necessary. The game also provides an easy-to-understand tutorial, so newer players should not fear its complexity too much.

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While the game is slightly inferior on the graphical front when compared to many of its rivals, VTOL VR more than makes up for it with an abundance of immersive gameplay. For VR users, this is an ideal first step into the genre. And for the flight-sim fanatic, this game alone may justify the purchase of a VR headset.

3 X-Plane 12

X-Plane 12 could be compared with Assetto Corsa in the car racing scene, in that it has a thriving community of dedicated modders who continually add content to the game years after its release. As well as featuring some of the most authentic and realistic controls and handling out of aircraft in any flight sim on the market, X-Plane 12 lets players pilot hundreds of planes to thousands of worldwide destinations. It’s an ideal choice for hardcore enthusiasts.

The game is so full of customization options that players can change everything from weather conditions to missing components, to test out their skill as a pilot. The game also features VR support, and players can interact with each individual button and controller in their cockpit.

4 IL-2 Sturmovik (Series)

Realistic WW2 Flight Simulation With Combat Focus

The IL-2 Sturmovik series has been one of the starring pioneers in combat flight simulation for over 20 years now. Set during World War II, players can take flight in a number of iconic military aircraft ranging from Spitfires and Stukas to elite units of the German Luftwaffe. With a range of missions and scenarios, as well as multiplayer battles and several story-driven campaigns, IL-2 Sturmovik is perhaps the most comprehensive WW2 flight sim ever produced. It continues to lead the way with regular updates and DLC.

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For new players looking to get into the series, IL-2 Sturmovik: Battle of Stalingrad serves as the modern base game, with a variety of additional battles, vehicles and aircraft available in addition. The game features full VR support and is one of the most intense and immersive experiences players can have through a headset.

5 DCS World

Highly Realistic Combat Sim Set In The Modern Day

DCS World, or Digital Combat Simulator World, is arguably the definitive combat simulator for hardcore enthusiasts. Centered around present-day aircraft, DCS World offers players an advanced simulator that will take hours of learning and practice before even a single aircraft has taken flight. Less of a game and more of a training program, DCS World is probably not the ideal starting point for beginners, but has endless amounts of content for the more patient enthusiast.

With hundreds of aircraft and a number of maps ranging from WW2 to the modern day, DCS World is also one of the most graphically impressive simulators out there. The base game is free to download on Steam, though many of the more advanced aircraft can cost upwards of what would be expected for a full-priced, brand-new AAA release.

6 Microsoft Flight Simulator

The Largest And Most Comprehensive Flight Sim

Arguably the most impressive, and easily the most expansive, flight simulator on the market is Microsoft Flight Simulator. With a complete render of the entire globe for players to fly around, the 2020 release has been continually updated with an extensive roster of diverse aircraft for players to fly. Options range from massive intercontinental commercial flights to island-hopping floatplanes and helicopter tours.

In addition to the accurate and immersive flight controls, one of the game’s best features is its beautiful rendition of planet Earth. Players can visit almost any real-world location they can imagine from the skies.

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