Games Like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

From gliders and helicopters to wide-body jets, fly highly detailed and accurate aircraft in the Microsoft Flight Simulator 40th Anniversary Edition. The world is at your fingertips.

Why similar: Flight 42.3%, VR 14.8%, Realistic 10.7%, Simulation 10.3%, Multiplayer 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: This is the direct predecessor to the 2024 version and offers a nearly identical level of global realism and atmospheric immersion.

Ultra-Realistic Flight Simulation

Why similar: Flight 41.1%, VR 18.3%, Realistic 12.4%, Simulation 10.1%, Immersive Sim 4.5%

Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the primary competitor to the Microsoft series, it features an advanced flight model that is highly respected by real-world pilots.

Feel the excitement of flying the Su-25T "Frogfoot" attack jet and the TF-51D "Mustang" in the free-to-play Digital Combat Simulator World!

Why similar: Flight 47.9%, VR 12.8%, Simulation 11.9%, Realistic 10.3%, Multiplayer 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers the most comprehensive military flight simulation experience available, focusing on incredibly deep systems and high-fidelity aircraft modeling.

VTOL VR is a near-futuristic combat flight game built for Virtual Reality. Pilot advanced multi-role jets, using your hands to flip switches, press buttons, and manipulate the virtual flight controls.

Why similar: Flight 48.4%, VR 22%, Realistic 10.1%, Simulation 7.5%, Multiplayer 4.8%

Why You'll Like It: It is the gold standard for VR flight, utilizing motion controls to provide an unparalleled level of cockpit interactivity and immersion.

The future of flight simulation is now! X-Plane 11 is the detailed, realistic, and modern simulator you’ve been waiting for. Intuitive user interface, 3-D cockpits, new effects, 3-D sound, living airports and world-wide scenery.

Why similar: Flight 49.9%, Simulation 12.3%, Realistic 11.3%, VR 9.5%, Multiplayer 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: A proven and stable flight simulator that remains a favorite for its extensive library of third-party add-ons and realistic flight dynamics.

Build and fly realistic aircraft. Use free-form fuselage and wing editor tools and tune your engines to recreate aircraft from any era or design your own.

Why similar: Flight 52.4%, Simulation 16.3%, Sandbox 14.2%, Realistic 6.1%, Immersive Sim 4.6%

Why You'll Like It: This game allows players to design and build their own aircraft from scratch, testing them with a highly accurate physics engine.

We promise you will feel like a pilot flying airliners, helicopters, fighters, gliders, historical and aerobatic aircraft in a photorealistic world! Over 10,000 real world flights, highly detailed cockpits and scenery are awaiting you.

Why similar: Flight 42.2%, VR 17.6%, Realistic 12.1%, Simulation 9.2%, Open World 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: Known for its exceptional performance and smooth VR integration, it provides an accessible yet realistic flight experience.

IL-2 Sturmovik: Battle of Stalingrad is the continuation of the legendary IL-2 Sturmovik series that has set the standard for PC combat flight games for more than ten years. This new entry into the series will offer virtual pilots an even more accurate simulation of the most famous air battles.

Why similar: Flight 59.1%, VR 16.4%, Realistic 11.4%, Simulation 7.3%, Multiplayer 3.5%

Why You'll Like It: It provides a highly realistic combat flight experience with detailed flight models and authentic historical environments.

Take control of your own starship and blaze your trail in an ever-changing galaxy. Master the arts of combat, mining and trade or venture out into the unknown across a 1:1 scale universe.

Why similar: VR 25%, Open World 22.5%, Simulation 16.3%, Multiplayer 14.2%, Sandbox 10.3%

Why You'll Like It: While set in space, it offers a massive, realistic scale of exploration and complex flight mechanics that appeal to the same audience as global flight simulators.

AirportSim is an Advanced Airport Ground Handling Simulator with true-to-life visuals and operations, licensed planes and vehicles, real airports and live weather conditions. Enjoy the many tasks alone or with friends, making this experience unforgettable.

Why similar: Hobby Sim 42% ★, Flight 21.9%, Realistic 7.7%, Sandbox 5.5%, Simulation 5%

Why You'll Like It: This game focuses on the ground-side aviation experience, offering a perfect companion to the flight simulation hobby.

In Kerbal Space Program, take charge of the space program for the alien race known as the Kerbals. You have access to an array of parts to assemble fully-functional spacecraft that flies (or doesn’t) based on realistic aerodynamic and orbital physics.

Why similar: Sandbox 33.5%, Simulation 33.1%, Open World 13.1%, Physics 10.8%, Exploration 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: It captures the joy of flight and orbital mechanics through a sandbox lens, emphasizing physics and trial-and-error engineering.

RealFlight® is the industry-leading flight simulator for radio-controlled airplanes, helicopters, and drones. Fly more than 300 hyper-realistic vehicles in an immense, open world right from your desktop. This RC classic is a must-have tool for flight enthusiasts of all skill levels!

Why similar: Flight 30%, VR 20.1%, Realistic 16%, Simulation 12.1%, Multiplayer 9.2%

Why You'll Like It: The industry standard for RC flight simulation, offering precise physics that are excellent for training and hobbyists.

Liftoff® is a drone simulator that translates the rush of first-person view drone flight to the digital world. Join the biggest community for virtual FPV racing and freestyle!

Why similar: Flight 51.1%, Realistic 15%, Simulation 12.6%, Multiplayer 8.9%, Immersive Sim 4.4%

Why You'll Like It: It captures the precision and physics-based nature of flight in a smaller, drone-focused format that feels incredibly authentic.

Pilot legendary aircraft of the early years of aviation, French Spad 13, German Albatros D.Va and Russian built Nieuport 17, in the free-to-play Rise of Flight United! This WWI aviation sim that has something for every flight-sim fan, from single player skirmish and career to multiplayer dogfights, but one thing is for certain, the...

Why similar: Flight 62.5%, Simulation 16.4%, Multiplayer 10.4%, Realistic 5.3%, VR 3.3%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers a unique WWI aerial combat experience with a focus on the delicate flight characteristics of early aviation.

Join a world where you design, create and pilot your own air sea rescue service. Release your inner hero as you battle fierce storms out at sea to rescue those in need.

Why similar: Flight 46.6%, Sandbox 15.6%, Open World 12.1%, Multiplayer 9.4%, Immersive Sim 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Combines vehicle building with complex systems and rescue mission exploration in a vast, open-world environment.

The Rails are Yours in Train Sim World 5! Take on new challenges and new roles as you master the tracks and trains of iconic cities across 3 new routes. Immerse yourself in the ultimate rail hobby and embark on your next journey.

Why similar: Realistic 24.3%, Simulation 17.6%, Open World 13%, Family Friendly 11.6%, Immersive Sim 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: Shares the same dedication to realistic, real-world transportation simulation and immersive cockpit environments.

Farming Simulator 25 invites you to join the rewarding farm life, single-handedly or cooperatively in multiplayer. This Farm is Your Farm!

Why similar: Realistic 25%, Simulation 23%, Multiplayer 17.3%, Nature 11.7%, Immersive Sim 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Matches the 'hobby-sim' and realistic equipment operation feel of MSFS, focusing on the satisfaction of operating heavy machinery.

Raise a city from the ground up and transform it into a thriving metropolis with the most realistic city builder ever. Push your creativity and problem-solving to build on a scale you've never experienced. With deep simulation and a living economy, this is world-building without limits.

Why similar: Simulation 31.5%, Sandbox 24.1%, Realistic 22.9%, Relaxing 6.6%, Open World 5.8%

Why You'll Like It: Shares the sandbox and management depth found in the career modes of modern flight sims, appealing to those who enjoy large-scale simulation.

Become an ace pilot and soar through photorealistic skies with full 360 degree movement; down enemy aircraft and experience the thrill of engaging in realistic sorties! Aerial combat has never looked or felt better!

Why similar: Flight 68.2%, VR 10.5%, Realistic 7.3%, Multiplayer 6.7%, Simulation 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a cinematic flight experience for those who enjoy the spectacle and adrenaline of aviation combat.

The classic transport simulation genre has a new gold standard with Transport Fever 2. Discover a whole new world by navigating transport routes through land, water and air. May progress and prosperity find their way!

Why similar: Flight 32.3%, Simulation 26.8%, Realistic 15.4%, Sandbox 14.8%, Open World 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: Appeals to the logistics and transportation management aspect of aviation, focusing on building complex networks.

Build and fly your own airplane! Complete missions to earn money, upgrade your plane, and discover new locations in an open world.

Why similar: Flight 53.6%, Sandbox 13.9%, Open World 9%, Simulation 8.3%, Exploration 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the engineering and assembly side of flight, allowing players to understand the mechanics behind the aircraft.

War Thunder is the most comprehensive free-to-play, cross-platform, MMO military game dedicated to aviation, armoured vehicles, and naval craft, from the early 20th century to the most advanced modern combat units. Join now and take part in major battles on land, in the air, and at sea.

Why similar: Flight 43.6%, VR 21.9%, Realistic 13.1%, Simulation 12%, Multiplayer 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: It provides a massive variety of aircraft with a mix of realistic and arcade flight models, perfect for those who enjoy the spectacle of aviation.

Soar through 3 custom maps or explore the entire globe with Google Earth integration. Pilot hang gliders, paragliders, paramotors, mini-wings, speed-wings, ultralight trikes, or racing drones. Customize weather conditions and fly solo or with friends. Perfect for seasoned pilots and newcomers alike!

Why similar: Flight 39.4%, Simulation 17%, VR 16.1%, Realistic 9%, Exploration 5.5%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the atmospheric and physics-based challenges of soaring, emphasizing the quiet beauty of flight.

Feel the power of simulation in your hands. Experience immense velocity and express unrivalled creativity with Train Sim World 4! Expand your rail hobby and discover the raw emotion of driving a diverse array of iconic routes and trains. From training center to mountain pass, this is your journey.

Why similar: Realistic 22.1%, Simulation 21.3%, Open World 11.9%, Family Friendly 10.2%, Immersive Sim 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: A solid alternative for those who enjoy realistic, real-world transportation simulation and detailed vehicle operation.

Take flight in a seaplane flight simulator through a rugged world where you are responsible for the care and maintenance of your plane. Deliver cargo between far-flung communities in a flooded landscape that challenges your piloting skills! Fix your plane and keep flying!

Why similar: Flight 54.4%, Simulation 15.2%, Sandbox 6.9%, Open World 6.3%, Exploration 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: Emphasizes the exploration and atmospheric flight aspects of the genre, focusing on the beauty of the journey.

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Japan in over 550 real-world cars and become a racing Legend in Forza Horizon's biggest open world driving adventure yet.

Why similar: VR 18%, Open World 17.3%, Realistic 17.2%, Multiplayer 14.9%, Simulation 12.5%

Why You'll Like It: Shares the open-world exploration and high-fidelity vehicle simulation focus, even though it is land-based.

FlyInside Flight Simulator is a brand new flight simulator built for VR! It ships with ten beautiful aircraft and scenery covering the entire continental United States. Fly high-speed jets, hover helicopters, and enjoy general aviation aircraft around a variety of locations and weather types!

Why similar: Flight 45.1%, VR 22.2%, Simulation 12.1%, Realistic 9.1%, Open World 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: Built specifically for VR, it offers a highly immersive cockpit experience that prioritizes performance and realism.

Embark on your next journey and discover the joy of train simulation. Be ready for anything as you master formidable trains across 3 new routes. Unlock new skills and expand your hobby - Expect the Unexpected in Train Sim World 6!

Why similar: Simulation 24%, Realistic 22.2%, Immersive Sim 11.1%, Family Friendly 10.8%, Exploration 8.8%

Take to the skies in the World’s favourite flight simulator! The multi award winning Microsoft Flight Simulator X lands on Steam for the first time. Take off from anywhere in the world, flying some of the world’s most iconic aircraft to any one of 24,000 destinations.

Why similar: Flight 58%, Simulation 12.1%, Realistic 10.2%, Multiplayer 6.2%, Open World 6.1%

Without doubt flying virtual aircraft from your PC is one of the most interesting simulations – at the same time, it is one with a very steep learning curve. Holiday Flight Simulator, though, makes it especially easy to relive the last holiday trip from the cockpit’s view.

Why similar: Flight 45.1%, Realistic 12.5%, Simulation 11.4%, Family Friendly 6.2%, Exploration 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: A casual take on the commercial aviation experience for those looking for a more relaxed flight simulation.

The brand new helicopter game from independent developers Bohemia Interactive – creators of the award-winning military-Sim series Arma 2. Built upon over 10 years of experience in cutting-edge simulator development, Take On Helicopters immerses players within beautifully rich landscapes and an authentic flight model.

Why similar: Flight 63.5%, Simulation 26.6%, Open World 6.8%, Sandbox 3.1%

Why You'll Like It: Offers a dedicated simulation experience for rotorcraft enthusiasts, focusing on the unique physics of helicopter flight.

Build your maritime career solo or with up to 4 players. Take on contracts across diverse harbors, command different ships, and tackle cargo runs, patrols, rescues, firefighting, and unexpected events in a vast Northern European open world.

Why similar: Realistic 24.1%, Simulation 21.6%, Open World 14.9%, Multiplayer 12.2%, Immersive Sim 9.7%

Conquer American mountains as you haul incredible tonnage with the workhorses of industry, get the British capital’s commuters to work in record time and race state-to-state aboard German high-speed traction. Master the machine with Train Sim World 3.

Why similar: Realistic 24%, Simulation 18.6%, Multiplayer 10.6%, Open World 9.9%, Family Friendly 9.6%

Aerofly FS 2 Flight Simulator lets you explore the world of flying in a quality never seen before. Fly a large selection of highly detailed aircraft or a helicopter with interactive 3D cockpits. Aerofly FS 2 currently features over 200 airports in the south western USA and global elevation and satellite imagery.

Why similar: Flight 43%, VR 17.4%, Realistic 10.6%, Simulation 7.9%, Open World 7.3%

X-Plane 10 brings numerous improvements and enhancements for PC, Mac and Linux virtual pilots, unleashing the power of modern systems with its 64 bit processing and multi-core support.

Why similar: Flight 53.5%, Simulation 17.3%, Realistic 13.1%, Open World 7.7%, Multiplayer 5.9%

Kerbal Space Program 2 is the sequel to the acclaimed space-flight simulation game Kerbal Space Program. Enter the next generation of space adventure with exciting new parts, stunning visuals, fully revamped UI and Map View, and rich new environments to explore.

Why similar: Sandbox 19.4%, Realistic 18.7%, Simulation 14.6%, Open World 14.5%, Exploration 9.4%

Train Sim World is an immersive first-person simulator perfect for everyone, with complete in-cab interactivity, accurate detail on locos, real-world routes and hours of gameplay. Take to the rails with the brand-new Train Sim World 2020 Edition and find everything you need to master new skills.

Why similar: Realistic 31.9%, Simulation 29.5%, Open World 17.9%, Relaxing 8.6%, Atmospheric 3.7%

Fly with true-to-life physics, next-gen visuals, and the most detailed drone configurator in any FPV sim. Build your setup, share community presets, and fly handcrafted real-world locations. Made by real FPV pilots.

Why similar: Flight 49.7%, Realistic 15.1%, Simulation 14.4%, Open World 7.6%, Nature 3.7%

Build your maritime career and grow your fleet in a next‑generation ship simulator set in an expansive open world of Norway’s Lofoten region. Command service, cargo, and fishing vessels in singleplayer or online co‑op, mastering realistic ship handling, dynamic weather, and professional jobs at sea!

Why similar: Sandbox 28.4%, Family Friendly 18.9%, Immersive Sim 15.2%, Exploration 14.3%, Relaxing 14%

The evolution of train simulation! Master iconic locomotives on high-speed services, long freight hauls or precise commuter traffic, and get creative with customisation tools in this advanced sequel. Climb into the cab in Train Sim World 2.

Why similar: Realistic 22.4%, Simulation 19.6%, Family Friendly 9.5%, Open World 9%, Multiplayer 7.2%

Experience general aviation as never before! World of Aircraft is a series of stand-alone simulators that each focus on a specific kind of flying. World of Aircraft: Glider Simulator includes a series of (motor-) gliders and tow aircraft based on a high definition flying area.

Why similar: Simulation 23.6%, Flight 23.6%, Realistic 18.2%, Multiplayer 9.1%, Immersive Sim 8%

The Gold Standard in Air Traffic Control Simulation Control aircraft at 11 included airports, issue voice commands, manage traffic, and work together in multiplayer in the most immersive air traffic control simulator available.

Why similar: Flight 55.1%, Realistic 18.3%, Simulation 13.6%, Multiplayer 13%

Aerofly RC 10 is the ultimate radio controller flight simulator for beginners and experts alike.

Why similar: Flight 45.7%, VR 18.8%, Simulation 13.4%, Realistic 13.3%, Immersive Sim 4.2%

Do you have what it takes to become an astronaut? Reentry is a realistic space flight simulator inspired by the early NASA space programs, from orbiting Earth in Mercury and Gemini, to the moon landing in project Apollo. Learn the procedures. Operate the spacecraft. Complete the mission.

Why similar: Flight 39.4%, VR 15.1%, Realistic 13.1%, Simulation 9.5%, Open World 8.3%

Welcome back to Ultrawings, Pilot! Take to the skies using your virtual hands to fly 5 unique aircraft as you complete a diverse set of engaging, hand-crafted missions across an island-themed world in this made-for-VR, aerial-themed, action-adventure game!

Why similar: Flight 38.8%, VR 20.4%, Simulation 9.2%, Open World 7.8%, Relaxing 5%

Sailing simulator featuring realistic sailing physics and a vast open world to explore. Embark on cargo delivery missions, customize your boat, try fishing and cooking. A relaxing day sail, or an epic ocean voyage? Your sailing adventure starts here!

Why similar: Simulation 21.9%, Open World 21.2%, Family Friendly 13.7%, Relaxing 11.8%, Immersive Sim 11.6%

SimplePlanes VR is a flight sim with an ever-expanding collection of hand-crafted aircraft to download and fly for free. Airplanes, helicopters, cars, boats, and more are available and new crafts are added every day.

Why similar: Flight 40.2%, VR 21.2%, Sandbox 10%, Simulation 9.4%, Realistic 6.1%

Drive massive trains and build your career in a vast open railway network. For both PC and VR.

Why similar: VR 29.2%, Realistic 20%, Simulation 14.4%, Open World 11.2%, Sandbox 9.3%

Fly near-future aircraft with immersive physics across dynamic battlefields, facing land, air, and sea threats. Wage war against AI or rival pilots using an array of advanced weaponry, including tactical and strategic nuclear weapons capable of annihilating anything in your path.

Why similar: Flight 53.4%, Realistic 17.1%, Sandbox 12.6%, Simulation 12.2%, Physics 4.6%

Amateur or experienced FPV pilot, learn or improve your skills on Uncrashed,the new ultra realistic FPV simulator. Simulate your own FPV drone with settings based on real values and you will have the same feeling as a real flight without the risk of breaking your drone !

Why similar: Flight 60.2%, Simulation 16%, Realistic 10.2%, VR 3.8%, Physics 3.3%

A simple immersive flying game built for VR. Pilot an aircar through a futuristic cityscape.

Why similar: Flight 36.8%, VR 21.7%, Simulation 7.8%, Open World 7.2%, Realistic 6.2%

Create and manage your own airline. Create both passenger and cargo routes all over the world while you upgrade and expand your fleet of airplanes and airports. Airline Manager is among the most realistic of its genre - so prove yourself and beat your friends and other real life managers.

Why similar: Flight 63%, Simulation 15.9%, Multiplayer 9.6%, Open World 6.7%, Immersive Sim 4%

Live life on the tracks and discover the joy of train simulation. Whether looking for a relaxing run on the rails or seeking the thrill of mastering your virtual train driver career, find your way in Train Sim World 7.

Why similar: Simulation 29.6%, Sandbox 18%, Realistic 17.1%, Exploration 7.6%, Family Friendly 7.6%

Helicopter Simulator: Exceptional missions in a detailed environment, creating an atmosphere for an immersive and bluffing experience!

Why similar: Flight 51.5%, Simulation 23.8%, Realistic 14.5%, Open World 10.2%

With the Police Helicopter Simulator, you can now experience the daily routine of a helicopter pilot.

Why similar: Flight 47.7%, Realistic 15.7%, Simulation 12.4%, Family Friendly 7.3%, Relaxing 6%

Fly bush planes on the moon of a gas giant. Do deliveries, challenges and explore an open world.

Why similar: Flight 66.6%, Open World 12.7%, Exploration 7.6%, Simulation 6.1%, Relaxing 5.5%

Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop offers the most comprehensive bus fleet in the history of the series with 30 officially licensed buses. Drive on two vastly different maps, alone or with friend. Play with extended management elements or just enjoy your time on the road.

Why similar: Realistic 24%, Simulation 21.6%, Multiplayer 11.8%, Family Friendly 10.3%, Open World 9.9%