THE STRUGGLES OF A BROKE AVIATION ENTHUSIAST

So real it's difficult to distinguish a simulation from reality! (MSFS 2020)

Ah, let me regale you with the tales of free flight simulators that not only boasted trash physics but also served up a hearty dose of bad graphics. Brace yourself for a hilariously turbulent ride through pixelated skies and wonky landscapes!

As a broke aviation enthusiast with a potato PC, who can't afford realistic flight simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 or X-Plane-11, I dove headfirst into the world of these budget-friendly flight simulators, fueled by a sense of adventure and a willingness to overlook their shortcomings. Little did I know, I was about to enter a realm where the laws of physics and aesthetics went hand in hand on a rollercoaster of absurdity.

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I fired up the simulator, ready to pilot my chosen aircraft—a sleek airliner that was a testament to pixelated craftsmanship. As I taxied down the runway, the physics kicked in, and my aircraft decided to break free from Earth's gravitational pull with such force that I wondered if I had stumbled upon a secret NASA experiment gone awry. The altimeter numbers climbed faster than a squirrel on a caffeine high, leaving me questioning the very fabric of space and time.

But it was the moment of takeoff that truly tested my ability to contain laughter. The controls, as reliable as a rubber chicken, responded with all the finesse of a toddler playing with a toy airplane. A gentle nudge to the left sent my aircraft into an uncontrollable barrel roll, as if it were auditioning for the role of a dizzy acrobat in a virtual Cirque du Soleil. 

That Grahpics 💀💀💀💀 

As I attempted to regain control and execute a graceful turn, the wonky physics joined forces with the bad graphics to create a mesmerizing display of visual chaos. My aircraft glided sideways through the badly modelled skies, resembling a drunken seagull caught in a gusty windstorm. It was as if the laws of aerodynamics had taken an extended vacation, leaving me in a state of bewildered amusement. As I soared through the virtual heavens, the clouds resembled fluffy blobs of cotton candy, lacking any depth or realism. They were more like abstract art pieces than actual atmospheric phenomena. The sun, a glaring pixelated orb, seemed determined to blind my poor virtual pilot.

Barrel rollll

But the true masterpiece awaited me on the landing approach—a collision of trash physics and bad graphics that transformed the runway into a perilous path of doom. My once-mighty fighter jet morphed into a wobbly shopping cart with a wheel that had more wobble than a jelly on a trampoline. As I descended towards the ground, the runway seemed to have a life of its own, shifting and warping like a mischievous cat playing with a toy mouse.

And when I finally attempted to touch down, the laws of momentum waved goodbye, leaving my aircraft to bounce across the runway like an overzealous kangaroo on a trampoline. Each bounce sent me careening uncontrollably, leaving virtual onlookers wondering if I had joined a circus or simply forgotten to read the flight manual.

Despite the trash physics and the pixelated landscapes that resembled a Picasso painting gone wrong, I couldn't help but embrace the hilarity of it all. These free flight simulators, with their absurd physics and comically bad graphics, offered a unique and entertaining experience that money couldn't buy. They were a reminder to not take everything too seriously and to find joy in the unexpected, even if it came in the form of wonky pixels and questionable aerodynamics. After all, it's the laughter and the unforgettable moments that make the journey truly memorable.

All this said, there still are some impressive free flight simulators:

GEO-FS WITH HD IMAGERY

1. GEO-FS is a remarkably realistic flight simulator that provides an impressive level of realism, especially considering it's available for free. Running directly in your browser, it offers a diverse selection of aircraft to choose from and even simulates various weather phenomena, further enhancing the immersive experience. The multiplayer capability allows you to join your friends in flight, adding a social element to the simulation. Additionally, there's an optional HD imagery pack available for purchase at an affordable price of €6.99 per year. With ongoing development, GEO-FS is actively implementing features like radio navigation and ILS approaches, making it an increasingly comprehensive and enjoyable flight simulator for aviation enthusiasts of all levels. VISIT AT: GeoFS - Free Online Flight Simulator (geo-fs.com) .

All these buttons work!!

2. FlightGear flight Simulator offers an incredible virtual aviation experience that truly soars above its competitors. With stunningly realistic graphics, accurate flight dynamics, and a vast array of aircraft and sceneries, it's a pilot's dream come true. The attention to detail is astounding, from the intricacies of cockpit instruments to the dynamic weather system that adds an extra layer of immersion. What truly sets FlightGear apart is its active community and continuous development, ensuring a wealth of updates and enhancements. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or a budding aviation enthusiast, FlightGear Flight Simulator is a must-have, delivering a truly remarkable and exhilarating flying experience. VISIT AT: FlightGear Flight Simulator – sophisticated, professional, open-source .

Until next time, may the force be with you!