Best combat flight simulators

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

If you're specifically interested in combat flight simulators, here are some of the best ones available, ranging from realistic to more arcade-style experiences:

1. DCS World (Digital Combat Simulator)

Platform: PC (Windows)
Price: Free-to-play base game with paid aircraft and content
Overview: DCS World is widely considered one of the most realistic combat flight simulators available. The game features highly detailed aircraft models, realistic flight physics, and immersive combat scenarios. While the base game is free, additional aircraft and campaigns (ranging from WWII to modern-day jets) must be purchased separately. It’s ideal for players looking for a deeply realistic and tactical combat experience.

2. IL-2 Sturmovik: Great Battles Series

Platform: PC (Windows)
Price: Varies depending on edition and DLC
Overview: IL-2 Sturmovik is a series of combat flight simulators with a focus on World War II. It offers a mix of historical accuracy and immersive gameplay, with a variety of aircraft, detailed environments, and dynamic campaigns. The series is known for its realism, especially in flight dynamics and damage modeling. It also features multiplayer combat modes.

3. Microsoft Flight Simulator (with Mods/Custom Aircraft)

Platform: PC (Windows), Xbox Series X/S
Price: Paid (base game) + mods (some free, others paid)
Overview: While Microsoft Flight Simulator is primarily a civilian sim, it has a strong community that creates mods for combat aircraft, military missions, and even custom combat scenarios. If you want a more casual and visually stunning experience, with the option of adding combat elements, this might be a good option.

4. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown

Platform: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Windows)
Price: Moderate (can vary with sales)
Overview: Ace Combat 7 is a more arcade-style combat flight game with a storyline, offering intense dogfighting and fast-paced action. It’s not as realistic as DCS or IL-2, but it's accessible and fun, with beautiful visuals and a well-crafted campaign. If you're looking for a more cinematic and accessible experience, Ace Combat 7 is a top pick.

5. War Thunder

Platform: PC (Windows), PS4, Xbox One
Price: Free-to-play (with in-game purchases)
Overview: War Thunder offers a broad selection of military vehicles, including tanks, ships, and aircraft, across various eras (from WWII to modern). The air combat is fast-paced but can also include a more realistic mode for hardcore players. Its free-to-play model makes it a popular choice for casual and competitive players alike.

6. Battlefield V (with Air Combat)

Platform: PC (Windows), PS4, Xbox One
Price: Varies, often discounted
Overview: While primarily a first-person shooter, Battlefield V includes a robust air combat mode, particularly focused on WWII dogfighting. It has a more arcade feel, but still offers fun and fast-paced dogfights. It's ideal for players looking for a mix of infantry and aerial combat.

7. Tom Clancy’s H.A.W.X. Series

Platform: PC (Windows), PS3, Xbox 360
Price: Varies, often discounted
Overview: The H.A.W.X. series offers a more accessible, arcade-style flight combat experience with a focus on modern military aircraft. It features a variety of missions, but the gameplay is less realistic compared to titles like DCS or IL-2, making it a good choice for casual combat flight fans.

8. Sky Rogue

Platform: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux), Nintendo Switch
Price: Low-cost indie game
Overview: Sky Rogue is a more casual, rogue-like flight combat game with a fun, arcade-style feel. While it doesn’t aim for full realism, it offers a variety of missions and aircraft in a stylized, enjoyable package. It’s perfect if you want something light-hearted but still engaging.

9. Wings of Prey

Platform: PC (Windows)
Price: Affordable, but not actively updated
Overview: Wings of Prey is an older but solid WWII flight sim with a variety of missions and aircraft. While it’s not as advanced as some other modern flight sims, it offers a great experience for players looking for a classic combat flight simulator.

Which One is Best for You?

Realism: If you’re after the most realistic experience, DCS World and IL-2 Sturmovik are the top choices.
Fun and Accessibility: For a more accessible and fun arcade experience, Ace Combat 7 or War Thunder are great options.
Free-to-Play: If you're on a budget, War Thunder and DCS World (base game) are solid free-to-play options.