The best among virtual reality flight simulators

Perhaps the most well known is the most recent release of Microsoft Flight Simulator, an ongoing series of flight simulators since 1982. It’s easy to pick up, and features realistic aerodynamics, a selection of real world aircraft, and the ability to fly anywhere on Earth, thanks to a map generated by AI and satellite imagery. Flying in this realistic world in VR is sure to be a wonderful experience. MFS is available on Windows, and Xbox Series S and X.

DCS (Digital Combat Simulator) World is a free to play flight simulator with a focus on military aircraft, as opposed to MFS’ civilian angle. While perhaps harder to pick up, DCS features much more realistic interiors and flight models. In VR you can physically interact with the throttle, yolk, switches, and screens inside your vehicle. The cost of this is that you’re only given two vehicles and two maps when you first download the game; The TF-51D Mustang, an unarmed trainer based off the WWII era P-51D, and the Su-25T Grach, a more modern close air support attacker. You are also given the Caucasus region (Encompassing much of Georgia, as well as parts of Russia and Crimea), and the Marianas Island Chain. More maps, craft, and campaigns are available for purchase. DCS is exclusively available for Windows.

Ultrawings is a cross between a flight simulator and an arcade flight game, featuring lower detail environments, and a generally cartoony art-style, and would be more suited to newer VR players. The game follows a storyline where you complete different challenges with your allotted aircraft, which are earned through completing said challenges, like races, flying through hoops, shooting targets and balloons. Ultrawings is playable on most platforms, including PSVR, Windows, and natively on the Oculus Quest series. It’s also available to play flat screened on even more platforms.

VTOL VR is a military flight simulator in the same vein as DCS, but slightly more accessible due to its simpler flight systems: It is realistic enough to satisfy the needs of someone looking for flight simulation, but isn’t as daunting as DCS, with hundreds of key-binds per aircraft. VTOL VR takes on a futuristic aesthetic, with 4 craft resembling real world vehicles; The AV-42C, a vertical takeoff capable strike and transport plane. The F/A-26B, a multirole fighter and attacker. The F-45A, a stealthy strike aircraft with VTOL capabilities, and the AH-94, a purchasable two seat attack helicopter. One downside is VTOL VR's graphics, which can be seen as overly simplistic, though this does mean you can run it on lower end computers. VTOL VR is available for Windows only.